ITCHY FEET TRAVELS

Itambira island, Lake Bunyoni

Uganda

July 14, 2024

Lake Bunyoni is considered the prettiest lake in Uganda and with good reason. I chose to stay on a small island called Itambira, at a place called Seeds of Hope. I especially appreciated the idea that all proceeds go toward helping the local community. Another boda boda ride from the town of Kabale, this time up a steep gravel road and at one of the piers, a motorboat picked me up.

Deep blue waters ripple as we head out. The tongues of water that seem to have serrated edges on a map turn this way and that as they hug the shoreline, with the delightful sense of not knowing what lies around the next corner.

There are villages along the shore but it is not cheek-by-jowl as in Lake Kivu. Although some slopes are cleared for fields, there is plenty of tree cover left.

There are hotels and lodges too but instead of concrete monstrosities, these tend to blend into the surroundings.

Fishing of course is the mainstay for many in these parts. Wooden dugouts dot the waters and we pull up close to one. Peering in I see a bag of small fish and in another some crayfish. Crayfish! I salivate at the thought of eating crayfish.

The lake is too deep to use nets, says Hillary, the boatman, so they use baskets instead.  The opening at the top has an inverted cone with a small hole. Attracted by the food placed at the bottom, fish swarm in but the small hole at the top ensures they don’t swim out. Ingenious.

The Itambira island has a small jetty welcoming visitors. Again, that use of natural materials that blend into the surroundings tastefully. As does the wide thatched-roof lounge and dining space. The small island has a smattering of wooden cabins, treehouses and round huts, each beautifully designed. A paved path leads steeply up to the various cabins and huts. The hut I am staying in is lovely! And the view sublime.

A trail goes up further to the top of the island. The lake surface glitters in the sun and there are small garden plots. Further up is the local community who have benefitted from Seeds of Hope.

They now have permanent homes of cement and animals to rear in addition to their vegetable plots. A cow, a pig, some goats and a rabbit run are to one side. I chat a bit, take some photos and kick the football with a couple of boys before heading back down.