A kayak trip on Uganda’s Lake Bunyonyi: Nestled amidst the rolling hills of southwestern Uganda lies a hidden gem of unparalleled beauty: Lake Bunyonyi is one of the lakes in Uganda that attracts tourists on the natural tourist circuit around Uganda’s Albertine Rift. Popularly referred to as the ‘Lake of Little Birds’, this beautiful and serene water body has clear water, and lush islands and is much renowned for its beautiful view. So come and enjoy with us as you paddle in the crystal clear waters of Uganda in Lake Bunyonyi as you have never done before.
1. A Water Wonderland:
Lake Bunyonyi, which is about 25 miles long and 5 miles wide at its broadest point and extends to depths of 900 meters, was created by volcanic activity, millions of years ago. Its water is still and green and is home to over 29 islands of different sizes and with their distinct features. From islands such as the big one with forest land to small islands such as the rocky mountain, and sandy beach the islands of Bunyonyi are full promises of coves, caves, and lagoons.
2. Kayaking Expeditions:
On Lake Bunyonyi, several adventure enthusiasts can go for kayaking which means that the riveting experience can only be felt while inside the water facing the natural weaving. From the individual one may rent a kayak and get on the water or from the guided tours, kayakers can tour the lake to pass close to the towering cliffs, go through the narrow channels, and maneuver within the rocky islands all the time admiring and cherishing the calm and scenic beauty of the place. The nice thing with the Bunyonyi is that there are no motorized boats around to spoil the serenity and that is a plus for someone doing kayaking.
3. Island Hopping and Exploration:
Another interesting activity that is afforded to the people who go kayaking on Lake Bunyonyi is that they can visit the islands on the lake and get in touch with the families of the people who live there. Embarking from the vibrant market Island of Bwama to the serenity of Kyahugye Island, each a willingness of the island’s lay people into their cultural practices and ways of life. Canoes can be beached for a while to trek around the islands, interact with locals, and try to learn about their local farm and fish industries as well as handicrafts.
4. Birdwatching and Wildlife Viewing:
While in Uganda bird enthusiasts are offered the ultimate Lake Bunyonyi will excite them is because over 200 species of birds have been recorded in the area. While sailing in the shallow waters and weaving through the reed fields, the people in the kayaks could be lucky to see numerous beautiful kingfishers, Herons, and the seldom-seen African fish eagles. Besides birds, other animals found in and around the lake include; otters, monitor lizards, and occasionally hippos which determines that every time you go for a kayak, it will be a wildlife exploration on its own.
5. Sunset Serenity:
It is at such a time that the sun sets that the kayak operators taking people for a ride on Lake Bunyonyi are rewarded with a sight to behold; a sky painted with colors such as pink, orange, and gold. From the relative safety of the shore, a trip out into the crystal clear waters of the lake the islands rising in the background is the kind of serene experience that sums up Lake Bunyonyi in one stunning image. Approximately 30 minutes away by car, a sunsetting kayaking session on Lake Bunyonyi is perfectly romantic when done with a loved one on the same canoe.
6. Practical Information:
Rentals and Guided Tours: One can hire kayaks from several of the resorts and some of the lodges that are seated along the shores of Lake Bunyonyi with tourists having an option of being guided or even being taught how to kayak especially to the novice.
Safety Considerations: All in all, this means that although kayaking in Lake Bunyonyi is secure, one has to put on a safety jacket, take ample of water, and be careful of the weather and water current. For newcomers, the entry point is advisable to take a calm and low wave area of the lake before going further away.
Best Time to Kayak: It is however best to carry out the exercise in the dry season especially from June to September when the weather is warm and dry and hence the water level in the lake is constant. However, kayaking can be done at any season because all seasons are good for it and have their beauty and the charm of unique fauna.
Conclusion:
On a Ugandan Safari, kayaking on Lake Bunyonyi it was as if one is an explorer – a pioneer discovering new frontiers for civilization to conquer by unveiling a new facet of the beauty that nature has endowed this region with at every dip of the paddle. No matter if one is out for discovering the islands, interacting with the community members or if one is just out for the joy of drifting on the placid waters of the lake, it will be hard not to fall for the beauty of this enchanting place at first sight. Therefore if you are ready for the best discoveries right from your canoe, get your swimsuit, and your sunscreen and set off for the greatest discovery on the supermarket of the world at Lake Bunyonyi.
