With 510 hectares, Bulago island is the largest of the 15 Koome islands in Lake Victoria. It was named because of the neck-like topography of the island.
Bulago means neck in Luganda, and because of its neck-like formation, the island was given this name. It stands at 510 hectares, making it the largest island in Lake Victoria.
About 150 people call these beautiful and tranquil islands home. It’s also the ideal place to “escape” if you’re tired of the everyday dramas found on other islands.
There’s a particular side of Bulago that tourists will love as soon as they exit the boat. There are so many large lemon and lime trees that welcome visitors.
The many lemons that are rotting on the ground serve as a clue that this is not your typical island populated by hustling people and suffering fisherman. There’s a “class” at this location which you’ll see the moment you arrive.
Tourist Attractions on Bulago island
The wildlife
Wildlife thrives on the island and in the waterways around it, drawing a wide variety of bird, reptile, spider, and insect species.
There are a few mammals as well that are managed across the lake. Hundreds of different bird species call Bulago home, and the area draws a large number of migratory species all year long.
Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary
A project called the Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary was started to take care of the orphaned chimpanzees that the Uganda Wildlife Authority had saved. They were rescued from poachers since they couldn’t live in the wild on their own.
You’ll get a chance to get up and personal with the chimpanzees while taking part in experiences that will stay with you forever. You may also get the chance to see the island’s other inhabitants, such as hippos, crocodiles, and monitor lizards.
Pineapple Bay Resort
The pineapple bay can be reached by boat, which takes 40 minutes, or by air, which takes around 10 minutes. All of these are options for getting to Bulago Island in Lake Victoria, where pineapple bay is situated. It is a wonderland that is worth visiting and is just a mile away in the south of the equator.
The location has a lovely sandy beach and is a wonderful place to unwind. Even if you are far from Zanzibar, Mombasa, or even Malindi, which are some of the most incredible spots along Kenya’s coast. There are palm trees, which help give you the impression of a real coastal breeze.
Tourist Activities on Bulago island
Island Walks
Visitors are encouraged to explore the island’s network of pathways and tracks. They can travel along lakeshore beaches, through lovely equatorial forests, and up to the heights of Bulago’s two hilltops.
The walks range in length from 2 km to 16 km and are suitable for people of all ages and abilities.
Bird watching
Numerous bird species find refuge on Bulago island. The lush, inaccessible wetlands and woodlands that can be found on several of the islands are ideal for these birds to thrive.
Expect to see the African Fish Eagle, Barbets, Brown-throated Wattle-Eyes, Hornbills, Palm Nut Vultures, Paradise Flycatcher, Pygmy Kingfisher, Robin-Chats, Turacos, and Weaver Birds when visiting the Island.
Swimming
While visiting this particular island, swimming is undoubtedly one of the most popular pastimes. It has a beach that is the most well-liked swimming location.
Crocodiles from other areas of the lake occasionally make their way to some of the Ssese islands, but you shouldn’t be too concerned about them.
Sport fishing
One of the main activities on the island is sport fishing. Fishing expeditions are often planned in the many fishing villages to attempt and catch the biggest fish.
Despite tilapia being the main fish caught here, collecting Nile perch is the real trophy (the largest fish in Lake Victoria).
To engage in sport fishing, international travelers must possess a fishing license. Even though renting fishing gear from the islands for a reasonable price is an option, it is best to carry your own.
Quad Biking
Quad biking is a fun method for people who are feeling brave to explore the islands. Because the quad bike can go on any surface, you may travel over sandy beaches and rugged cliff tops, through forests, and to nearby fishing villages. There, you can stop for lunch and get a taste of the local way of life.
It is not necessary to have prior quad bike experience for this activity. They can practice before moving onto more challenging terrain if necessary.
How to get to Bulago island
Every day at 2 pm, a sizable, contemporary transportation ferry leaves Nakiwogo Dock, south of Entebbe, for Kalangala Bay on the Ssese Islands.
Every day at 8 am, the ferry departs from Kalangala Bay and returns to Nakiwogo Dock (Entebbe). The trip takes about three and a half hours. Tickets for first and second classes are offered. The only distinction is that the first class might be less crowded.
From there, tourists can book a speed boat to take you to Bulago Island. Work is currently being done on the island’s airstrip so visitors can be flown there.
Best time to visit the Bulago islands
The Ssese Islands, especially Bulago, are best visited from late June to October when it’s cooler and drier.
This is because almost all the animals cluster around major water sources throughout these months. it is also less likely to rain, so you will not cancel planned activities during these times.
Conclusion
The beautiful Bulago Island is the perfect place to visit on your travel to Uganda. There are 200 different types of birds that call the island home, and it boasts stunning, lush forests, and white, sandy beaches.
There are numerous natural places and trails that you may explore as well. The island’s tranquility also makes it the perfect place to unwind.
You shouldn’t think twice about visiting Bulago Island even for a moment because it’s the closest thing you’ll experience next to paradise. The location is perfect for romantic getaways, weddings, honeymoons, and any other vacation you may have in mind.
For accommodation, there is Pineapple Bay Resort, Mirembe Beach Resort, Brovad Sands Lodge, Ssese Islands Beach Hotel, and many others.
