Lake & Waterfall · Kabale District
Lake Bunyonyi
A beautiful highland lake of 29 islands surrounded by terraced hills, and Uganda's favourite place to relax after gorilla trekking.
How to get there
About 15 to 20 minutes from Kabale town; about 6 to 7 hours by road from Kampala.
What to find
Dugout canoe trips, island visits, swimming, hikes, and community projects.
Overview
Lake Bunyonyi, whose name means 'place of many little birds', lies at about 1,950 m in the hills of southwestern Uganda near Kabale. Its 29 islands and steep, terraced hillsides make it one of the most beautiful lakes in Africa.
It's peaceful and cool, and has become a favourite stop before or after gorilla trekking in Bwindi and Mgahinga, with many lodges on its shores and islands.
Highlights
- Dugout canoe trips between the islands
- The story of Punishment Island
- Terraced hills and hikes with lake views
- Birdlife, including crowned cranes
- Batwa and local community visits
Things to do
Canoeing
Traditional dugout canoes or kayaks.
Island tours
Visit several islands and hear their history.
Hiking and cycling
Trails along the ridges.
Swimming
Popular at several lodges.
Best time to visit
All year. Evenings are cool.
Getting there
About 15 to 20 minutes from Kabale town, then by boat to island lodges.
Where to stay
Lakeside and island lodges, from simple camps to comfortable resorts.
Lake Bunyonyi & Kabale
A selection of well-known options, not a complete list. See all accommodation in Uganda →
Good to know
- Spend a night after trekking to rest your legs.
- Bring a warm layer for the evenings.
Permit prices, park rules and access can change. We always confirm the latest details when we plan your trip.