VISIT SSESE ISLANDS IN UGANDA
Visit Ssese Islands in Uganda : The Ssese islands in Uganda are by far the most beautiful island getaways in the country, given the fact that Uganda is a landlocked country. The islands are a favorite among tourists because of their white sandy beaches and rich birdlife.
The Ssese islands in Uganda are a group of eighty four islands that are located in the northwestern part of Lake Victoria which is the second largest fresh water in the world and it is shared by Uganda, Kenya and Tanzania. The islands are a coextension of Kalangala district which is located in the south central part of Uganda.
Besides Ssese islands, other islands in the group include; Bugala Island, Bubeke, Bubembe, Bufumira, Bugaba, Bukasa, Buyova, Funve and Serinya which are part of the Bugala group; with Bugala being the largest island. In the Koome island group, other islands include: Koome, Damba and Luwaji; with Koome being the largest island in this group.
The Ssese islands in Uganda are predominately fishing islands and most of the local communities living on the islands rely on fishing as a major source of income and food. The Ssese islands in particular are inhabited by the Bassese ethnic tribe which is part of the Bantu speaking tribes.
Tourists visiting Ssese islands in Uganda can take a boat cruise on Lake Victoria and explore all the natural beauty within and around the lake and the islands. The sunset boat cruise on the lake is even better and offers visitors spectacular views of the sunset and also marine and different species of birds around the lake.
Other activities offered to tourists visiting Ssese islands in Uganda include; bird watching, fishing, spot fishing, guided nature walks on the island, cultural encounters, swimming, primate tracking and so many more.
You can also explore Kihumuro cave located on Bugala Island which is one of the many islands that make up Ssese islands. It is a 30 by 40 metre cave with a wide entrance and tiny exist; tucked away in small village called Kalaya. The word ‘Kihumuro’ means ‘to rest.’ Ssenyondwe Lugamukiro SseBugala is believed to be the first inhabitant of Bugala islands; hence the island was named after him.
Legend has it that about 35 years ago, he rested in Kihumuro cave and his spirit along with those of his off springs visit the cave often. Locals often visit the caves to offer their gifts and prayers to his spirit. Visitors are required to remove their shoes before entering the cave.
While in the cave, you will see old spears in the middle of the cave. It is believed that when a person is possessed by any of the spirits in the cave, they have to first identify their spear before telling their prophesy.
There are also calabashes in the cave from which food is offered to the spirits. The ground of the cave is covered with dry grass while the roof is basically covered with bats. The cave is a cultural site for the Nkima clan of Buganda, also known as the red-tailed monkey clan.
Ssese islands have beautiful white sandy beaches where visitors can also relax and unwind after a long day of explore nature’s gifts. The large palm trees lined along the beaches provide the perfect shade for one to take a nap or simply chill and soak in the breeze from the lake and breath-taking views.
Ssese islands in Uganda make the perfect getaway destination for honeymoons, weekend vacations and family retreats. A visit to the islands can always be combined with a gorilla trekking safari in Bwindi Impenetrable national park, chimpanzee trekking in Kibale national park, or wildlife viewing in Murchison falls national park or Queen Elizabeth national park.
Accommodation on Ssese Islands in Uganda.
If you are looking for accommodation during your visit to Ssese Islands, you can check out the following places; Kalangala Pearl beach resort, Pineapple Bay Resort, Victoria Forest Resort, Panorama Cottages, and Philo Leisure Gardens to mention but a few.
How to Get to Ssese Islands in Uganda.
Ssese Islands are located in Kalangala district which is located approximately 51 kilometers southwest of Entebbe across water. Most of the islands can be accessed from Nakiwogo landing site near Entebbe. Visitors travelling to Bugala Island from Nakiwogo can take approximately 3½ hours. Ssese islands can also be accessed from Bukakata and Kasenyi landing sites.
Conclusion: Ssese Islands should not be excluded on your itinerary during your visit to Uganda because you are bound to have a very pleasant and memorable experience along with your loved ones.
