Arcadia Cottages at Lake Bunyonyi in Kabale

Arcadia Cottages at Lake Bunyonyi in Kabale: A Serene Retreat with Panoramic Views

Nestled atop the hills surrounding Lake Bunyonyi, Arcadia Cottages offers a breathtaking vantage point overlooking the picturesque lake and its myriad islands. Positioned as the highest lodge on the hill, this enchanting retreat boasts 25 self-contained cottages, each providing guests with a private deck to savor the mesmerizing views at their leisure.

Lake Bunyonyi: Uganda’s Natural Gem

Situated in the extreme southwestern corner of Uganda, Lake Bunyonyi is a captivating destination adorned with 29 islands, cradled by rolling hills where local farmers cultivate their crops on terraced slopes. This natural haven is considered one of Uganda’s most scenic locations. As the second deepest lake in Africa, Lake Bunyonyi offers a tranquil escape at an elevation of 1,962 meters above sea level, featuring moderate temperatures throughout the year—cool mornings and evenings creating an ideal retreat.

Most renowned as a rest and relaxation stop after adventurous gorilla trekking in the nearby Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Lake Bunyonyi captivates visitors with lush, green-terraced hills reaching heights of 2,200-2,478 meters. The lake’s 29 islands, varying in size and shape, contribute to its magical charm. Translating to the ‘place of little birds,’ Bunyonyi hosts around 200 bird species, making it a haven for bird enthusiasts, especially weaver varieties nesting by the lake and on the islands. It’s also an excellent location in Uganda to spot otters.

With a depth of about 900 meters, Lake Bunyonyi claims the title of the second deepest lake in Africa, following Lake Tanganyika.

Activities Around Lake Bunyonyi Kabale:

Boat Rides:

Embark on a boat cruise around Lake Bunyonyi, immersing yourself in the enchanting beauty of its islands. Countless boats along the lake’s banks are available for hire, promising day-long inland excursions.

Community Visits and Hikes:

While the resorts offer a relaxing atmosphere, exploring the Switzerland of Africa involves invigorating hikes in the surrounding hills. Trails winding through terraces, banana plantations, and lush vegetation provide stunning views of the 29 islands, creating picture-perfect spots from all angles.

Bird Watching:

True to its name, Bunyonyi, meaning ‘many little birds,’ the lake attracts bird lovers with over 200 species. From Grey-crowned cranes to Woodpeckers, the lake’s banks become a haven for bird enthusiasts seeking both tranquility and a rich birding experience.

Swimming:

Dive into the fresh, Bilharzia-free waters of Lake Bunyonyi. Structurally secure for deep dives, the lake offers a refreshing change from conventional swimming pools, inviting you to chill on the lakeside banks, sunbathe, and dive at any time of the day.

Local Market:

Immerse yourself in the vibrant African market experience around Lake Bunyonyi. These markets offer an array of goods, from crafts to vegetables, shoes, clothes, and electronics. The lively haggling for better prices and the bustling activity of local vendors create a space for connection and catching up.

Canoe Riding:

The most common mode of transport on Lake Bunyonyi, canoe rides provide an authentic experience of local life. Whether being paddled or doing the paddling yourself, guided by an experienced companion, a canoe ride offers extra time on the lake, opportunities for serenity, and panoramic views.

Experience tranquility, adventure, and the natural wonders of Lake Bunyonyi at Arcadia Cottages—a retreat where every moment becomes a cherished memory.