Tourist attractions at the Ssese Islands are evidently the islands themselves, followed closely by the locals. However, once you begin your journey to the Ssese Islands, there are even more attractions waiting to be discovered.
There are many tourist attractions in the Ssese Islands, but the main attraction has to be the islands, followed by their inhabitants. Although there are some more attractions that await you once you have begun your journey to the Ssese Islands, please do not worry as we will share them with you.
Two major groups: the Bugala Group and the Koome Group are divided to make up the Ssese Islands. South-west of the island of Bugala is where you may find the Bugala group (the largest in the group). These include Bugaba, Bukasa, Serinya, Bubeke, Funve, Bufumira, and Buyova.
Following are the Koome Group islands (which also had a large group). Luwaji, Damba, and Koome are some of them. Let’s talk in-depth about the big Islands and the tourist attractions within them.
Ssese islands tourist attractions
Bugala Island
The largest of the Ssese Islands is Bugala Island. It has a surface area of more than 205 square kilometres. Additionally, it is the tenth-largest lake island in the world. Possibly the most frequented and well-known island is Bugala.
Since it is the most developed of the islands, it is most suited to hosting tourists. The administrative centre for the majority of the other islands, Kalangala Town, is located on Bugala Island. The island may be reached by ferry, and it docks at Luku.
Beautiful sights
The hills on the island of Bugala provide breathtaking views of the lake, approaching ships and ferries, and island life. The islands’ enchanting ambience makes them ideal for newlyweds, lovers, and couples on vacation.
The island’s maybe biggest palm oil plantation in Uganda offers islanders economic chances.
Wildlife Viewing
Bugala Island is a great place to see primates and observe birds. Some of the birds you may see include, the African grey parrot, Turacos, the African fish eagle, Jewel pygmy kingfisher, Palm-nut vultures, hornbills, paradise flycatcher, and barbets.
Vervet monkeys are the most prevalent primates, but there are also a few Colobus monkeys, bushbucks, and snakes.
A few hippos live at the island’s southernmost point. Three endemic species, including a rat and three different kinds of butterflies, are protected on Bugala Island.
Banda Island
Although owned by a single person, this island welcomes visitors. Unlike the busier Bugala island, it still maintains its tranquillity.
Going to the Kasenyi landing location is where you hire a boat or canoe to take you to the island. It’s cheaper compared to getting a speed boat for rent.
Camping is a great option on Banda Island. When you get to the island, you can rent camping gear or bring your own. For individuals who might not feel comfortable in tents, Banda island also offers basic cottages at a reasonable price.
Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary
Among the many tourist attractions in the Ssese Islands, Ngamba is one of the most preferred. The size of Ngamba Island is roughly 100 acres. It’s mostly covered in rainforest.
The island was transformed into a sanctuary for rescued and abandoned chimpanzees in 1998. Each month, hundreds of people go to the island to visit the Ngamba chimpanzee sanctuary to see the primates or to volunteer as caregivers.
Along with chimpanzees, Ngamba Island is also home to 119 different bird species and animals like monitor lizards.
The island periodically receives visits from hippos and crocodiles.
The chimpanzees are Ngamba Island’s main draw. After being rescued from animal traffickers or after their parents are killed by poachers, chimpanzees are taken to this location. The chimps are often traumatized upon arrival as a result of the terrifying encounters they have with wildlife traffickers or poachers.
To stop the orphans from being bullied by adult chimps, they are initially kept apart before being gradually reintroduced to the new community.
Visitors to the chimpanzee sanctuary on Ngamba Island can observe the chimps being fed before they are released back into the wild. Volunteers can assist in feeding the adults and assisting the orphans in adjusting to island life.
Bulago Island
One of the bigger Ssese islands is Bulago Island. Over 510 acres make up its size (About 2 miles long). The sandy beaches are bordered by numerous cliffs and projecting rocks, which together give the area a unique appearance.
The view of the lake and far-off islands are breathtaking. The abundance of fish and inland insects on Bulago Island attracts both migratory and resident birds. It’s a birdwatcher’s dream. A 45-minute motorboat ride from Munyonyo will get you to Bulago island.
Forests on the islands
Tour most of the Ssese Islands Ssese Islands to appreciate their good forest cover. You can go about and gaze at the lovely flowers and greenery as well.
Bulago island is ideal for nature treks and getting away from the bustling metropolis because of its amazing terrain and natural beauty.
The locals on the island
To learn more about the daily lives of the locals, you might go to or visit one of the fishing villages. The Ssese Islands are a great place to fish for tilapia and the largest fish in Lake Victoria, the Nile Perch, is becoming an increasingly popular excursion in Uganda.
Poverty and backwardness are still a problem in the Ssese Islands. The majority of fishermen squander their hard-earned cash on alcohol and women.
Bukasa Island
With a height of 1,134 meters, Bukasa Island is one of the Ssese Islands. It is located northeast of Nkandaga Bay and northwest of Kiungu Bay, on Lake Victoria.
The Baganda believe that it’s the home of Mukasa’s Temple.
The Nanziri waterfalls
On the island of Bukasa, several waterfalls are situated. The Nanziri waterfalls are not far from the revered Nanziri cave and Wanema’s shrine.
You must take off your shoes and speak in a very low voice because these regions are regarded as sacred by the natives.
The guidelines for behaviour while there will be explained to you by your guide. You can see the remains of many sacrifices made to Nanziri, the waterfalls’ god, and other spirits at the waterfalls, including pieces of meat, coffee beans, and cash.
Conclusion
In this article, we’ve covered the main tourist attractions on the Ssese islands. Tourists can expect to see even more attractions as they go along. The islands are best visited from late June to October when it’s cooler and drier.
Because animals gather around major water sources throughout these months. it is also less likely that rain will tamper with planned activity during these times.
As for the general beauty of life on the island, you must travel to see it for yourself because words aren’t enough to explain. Ssese islands are indeed what they say they are, one of the World’s best-kept secrets.
Do not forget to take as many photos and videos as you can because they’ll serve as memories when you’re back home.
