Lake Bunyonyi, a birding paradise

Located in the southwestern Uganda near the Rwandan border, Lake Bunyonyi is one of the stunning places in the country which provide a breathtaking atmosphere to visitors. Though not well marketed as compared to other sites, Bunyonyi is a hideout hilarious site which am sure everyone would wish to visit especially if interested in a lifetime experience. The word “Bunyonyi” is in a local language meaning “birds” and the reason why this Lake was given such a name is because it’s a home to a wide range of bird species. Many birding lovers are fond of this place simply because the many birds which fly about the whole area are easily viewed. Compared to other birding destinations in the country, Lake Bunyonyi is most convenient place to visit as one sits back relaxed on the lake banks at the same time viewing the birds in the sky.

With lake having about 29 islands all found in its center, it makes it more convenient to stay around even those which homeless are fond of seeking refuge at on this lake and this has drastically increased their numbers. Some of the island on the lake include;-Akampene ,Bushara, Bwama and Njuyeera, Bacuranuka and many more. All the islands are easily accessed by boat and actually some tourists enjoy transferring from one island to another on boat as they search for different bird species. As they sail on the waters of Bunyonyi, they get a chance of encountering some birds especially the water birds as they play and roam about the water surface.

There are over 200 bird species at the Lake and these include;- White tailed blue monard, African Harrier Hawk, grey crowned cranes, Herons, egrets, the cardinal woodpecker, the levillant cuckoo, slender-billed baglafetch, weavers, levillant cuckoo and many more. Apart from viewing these rare bird species, tourists can take part in some other adventurous activities while at Bunyonyi including, boat rides, spot fishing, cultural walks to Batwa group of people and nature walks around the lake.