Lake Bunyonyi, meaning “Place of Many Little Birds,” is a stunning freshwater lake located in southwestern Uganda between Kisoro and Kabale, near the border with Rwanda. Formed around 10,000 to 18,000 years ago due to volcanic lava flows that dammed a river valley, the lake is one of Africa’s deepest, with depths reported between 40 meters and possibly as deep as 900 meters. It stretches approximately 25 kilometers long and 7 kilometers wide, sitting at an elevation of about 1,962 meters above sea level. The lake is dotted with 29 islands, each with its own history and unique features, including the infamous Punishment Island, which was historically used by the Bakiga people for isolating unmarried pregnant girls as a form of social punishment.
Top Activities at Lake Bunyonyi
Visitors to Lake Bunyonyi can enjoy a variety of activities such as canoeing, bird watching (with over 200 bird species), hiking in the surrounding hills, island hopping, and swimming in the bilharzia-free waters. The serene environment and cool climate make it a perfect retreat for relaxation and meditation, attracting tourists and honeymooners alike.
Getting there
To get to Lake Bunyonyi from Kampala, the journey covers about 410 kilometers and typically takes around 8 to 9 hours by road, traveling southwest through towns like Mbarara and Kabale. From Kabale town, Lake Bunyonyi lies approximately 7 kilometers west, which is about a 15 to 20-minute drive, making Kabale the nearest urban center and gateway for visitors heading to the lake.
Planning to visit Lake Bunyonyi on leisure vacations and would love to travel privately- we at Rent A Driver Uganda can get you an affordable 4×4 rental car for a driver-guided or self-drive trip to Lake Bunyonyi. You can contact us now by sending an email to info@rentadriveruganda.com or calling +256-700135510 to speak with our reservations team.