Lodge · Lake Bunyonyi, Kabale
Arcadia Lodges Lake Bunyonyi
On Lake Bunyonyi
UTB licensed
- Restaurant
- Bar
- Private deck or balcony
Ask the property for rates
Lake
Lake Bunyonyi
A highland lake of islands and terraced hills.
- Southwestern Uganda
- Best: Jun–Sep, Dec–Feb
Overview
- Altitude
- About 1,960 m
- Nearest town
- Kabale, about 8 km
- Known for
- Islands, canoeing, birds
Lake Bunyonyi lies at about 1,960 m in the hills near Kabale. Its name means "place of many little birds", and its winding shores hold dozens of islands.
Steep terraced farms rise from the water, and lodges, campsites and island retreats make it a favourite place to rest before or after gorilla tracking in Bwindi or Mgahinga.
Islands such as Akampene (Punishment Island) carry stories of Bakiga history, and canoe trips pass fishing villages and birdlife.
- Canoe and boat trips
Paddle a dugout canoe between the islands.
- Island stays
Stay on an island lodge or campsite.
- Hill walks
Hike the terraced ridges for views over the lake.
Things to do
- Canoe or boat trip
Hired from lodges or local boat operators.
- Island and village walks
With local guides.
- Birding
Kingfishers, cranes, weavers and more.
Wildlife and nature to look for
When to go
Pleasant all year; nights are cool at this altitude.
- Jan: Best
- Feb: Best
- Mar: Good
- Apr: Good
- May: Good
- Jun: Best
- Jul: Best
- Aug: Best
- Sep: Best
- Oct: Good
- Nov: Good
- Dec: Best
Costs
There is no entry fee for the lake. Boats, canoes and guides are priced by lodges and local operators.
Getting there
- By roadFrom KampalaAbout 7 hours
About 414 km on tarmac to Kabale, then about 8 km to the lakeshore.
- By roadFrom Bwindi (Rushaga) or KisoroAbout 1½–2 hours
Often combined with gorilla tracking in the south of Bwindi.
Open larger map Directions Marker shows an approximate location.
UTB licensed
Where to stay near Lake Bunyonyi
Photos
Know before you go
- Always wear a life jacket on boats and canoes.
- Evenings are cool; bring a warm layer.
Frequently asked questions
How many days should I spend at Lake Bunyonyi?
One or two nights is ideal as a rest stop on a southwestern Uganda trip.
Can I swim in Lake Bunyonyi?
Many visitors swim near their lodge. Ask your lodge about safe swimming spots and conditions.
Sources
Checked on 23 October 2026. Fees and rules change; confirm with the authority or your operator before you pay.
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Places to pair with Lake Bunyonyi
National parkSouthwestern Uganda
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Ancient rainforest and almost half of the world's mountain gorillas.
National parkSouthwestern Uganda
Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
Three volcanoes, mountain gorillas and golden monkeys.
National park