Lake Bunyonyi is a long, winding lake in the hills of far south-western Uganda, close to the Rwandan border and about 1.5-2 hours from Bwindi. Steep terraced slopes rise from the water, and more than twenty small islands are scattered across it.
This is not a wildlife destination. People come to slow down, usually after gorilla trekking: to paddle a dugout canoe between the islands, walk on the hillsides, swim, or simply sit on a terrace and look at the view. The lake is widely regarded as free of bilharzia and crocodiles, which is unusual in the region.
One or two nights is typical, and it is the closing stop on our 4-day gorilla trek and Lake Bunyonyi trip.
The lake sits at around 1,900m among hills that have been terraced for farming for generations. The water is deep and calm, and the islands range from tiny wooded outcrops to larger ones with homes and schools. Mornings are often misty.
Birdwatching from a canoe is pleasant, and crowned cranes are sometimes seen in nearby marshes. Otters are present but shy.
Dugout canoe or boat trips among the islands
Swimming from a lodge jetty
Walks through terraced farmland and villages
Island visits, including small community and craft projects
Days at Bunyonyi are slow and quiet. After the effort of a gorilla trek, it is a good place to rest, catch up on photos and enjoy cooler highland air before the drive back to Entebbe.
Any time of year. The drier months make hillside walks easier, but the lake is enjoyable in every season.
Read our full guide: Gorilla Trekking in Uganda: How It Works and How to Prepare »
About 1.5-2 hours by road from Bwindi, and close to the town of Kabale. It is rarely visited on its own because of the distance from Entebbe and Kampala.
Lakeside lodges and guesthouses on the shore and on some islands, from budget to comfortable mid-range.
A rest stop rather than a wildlife destination
Cooler than lowland Uganda, especially at night
Ask locally about the best swimming spots and swim within your ability
Yes. The canoeing, walks and scenery are the main reasons to go.
One or two nights after a Bwindi trek suits most people.
Tell us your dates and we'll build an itinerary that includes it.
