Birding at Lake Bunyonyi in Uganda: Lake Bunyonyi is the second deepest lake in Africa, with a depth of 900 meters. The most common islands in this lake are the Akampene Island, also known as the Punishment Island, Bwana, Kyahugye, Njuyeera, Bucuranuka, and Bushara. All of these islands are home to several bird species, which may be enjoyed by the many bird watchers that visit the Lake. This same lake is also home to numerous otters, crayfish, and is a bird paradise for many species of birds. It is located between Kisoro and Kabale districts, close to the Rwandan border.
Lake Bunyonyi in Uganda is one of the most beautiful spots in the nation, offering a breath-taking ambiance to tourists and visitors. Despite the fact that it is not as highly advertised as many other tourist destinations. Bunyonyi is another well-known hideout that you should visit if you want to enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime birding experience. The term “Bunyonyi” means “birds” in the local language, and this lake was given this name since it is home to a diverse range of bird species.
Many bird enthusiasts enjoy this location since the numerous birds fly across the region and can be easily observed. When compared to other birding hotspots in the country, Lake Bunyonyi is the most convenient for visitors since you can sit and relax on the lake banks while seeing the bird species in the sky.
With so many islands, it is much more convenient to remain around. Even the homeless like seeking sanctuary on this lake, which has boosted the number of birds. All of the islands on this lake are easily accessible by boat, and some tourists like travelling from one island to another while looking for different bird species.
As they go through the Bunyonyi waters, they may encounter certain birds, particularly water birds, as they play and move over the water’s surface. There are about 200 bird species in this region of the lake, including the grey crowned crane, the white tailed blue monard, herons, the African Harrier Hawk, egrets, slender-billed baglafetch, levillant cuckoo, and the cardinal woodpecker, among others.
Apart from witnessing these species, travelers may also participate in other activities such as spot fishing, boat rides, cultural walks, camping, bamboo walks that are guided trails and are highly suggested for anybody searching for a lengthy stretch, nature walks, and many more. This lake is open to the public all year.
How to Get to Lake Bunyonyi in Uganda.
Lake Bunyonyi is located in the Kabale town region in western Uganda. Along the route, it takes 6 hours from Kampala and 410 kilometers to Kabale town, with just 8 kilometers on murrum road from Kabale town to Lake Bunyonyi on your trip to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park in Kabale or Mgahinga National Park in Kisoro region. This lovely lake is nestled between the Kabale hills.
The lake is a body of water located 7 kilometers west of Kabale. It features a tiered terrain and bright colors that make it look comical. Just take a cab or a boda boda from Kabale to Orutinda Market; it’s around 28km and 20-25 minutes. You may then hire a canoe or a motor boat to take you to your desired location from the Orutindo. The easiest method to travel about is to take a journey on the lake in a motor boat. Look for the best boat that is comfortable and has a decent driver. These can take you about and even show you all the islands so you can relax and chose where to stay.
In conclusion: Lake Bunyonyi is also a great location to rest and unwind, with activities such as canoeing in a dugout canoe, swimming, island hopping, boating, hiking, bird watching, village visits, nature walks, and interactive cultural tours. This lake features breathtaking beauty on all 29 of its islands, mountains and Virunga volcanoes, fantastic places, and a pleasant environment to rest and unwind. Find out how to get there from Kampala, Mbarara, Kabale, or after gorilla trekking in Bwindi.
Lake Bunyonyi is a wonderful and beautiful lake in Uganda that is relatively unknown to tourists due to its location in the gorilla highlands. This lake should be on your list of things to see and do in your lifetime. This fascinating lake in Uganda should not be missed.
