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Best Islands in the Ssese Archipelago To Visit

In this long awaited article, we bring you 5 of the best islands in the Ssese Archipelago waiting to be explored. Lake Victoria, Africa’s largest freshwater lake, boasts a breathtaking archipelago on its shores. These islands, each with its own unique features and personality, offer a chance for everyone looking for a vacation spot to experience the beauty and wonder of Uganda.

Source: ssesseislands.net

Nestled amidst the vast expanse of Lake Victoria, Africa’s largest freshwater lake, lies a tropical gem – the Ssese Islands, or Archipelago. The Ssese Islands comprise 84 islands all part of Lake Nalubaale in Uganda. Furthermore, they also border Kalangala District.

This breathtaking chain of islands offers unforgettable experiences for every kind of traveller. Whether you crave relaxation on white sand beaches, thrilling adventures on the crystal-clear waters, or maybe encounters with captivating wildlife, the Ssese Islands have it all.

Bugala Island: Uganda’s Crème de la crème

Did you know that Bugala is not only the largest, most popular, and most developed but also the most beautiful island in Uganda? Bugala Island is widely recognised as the go-to place for everyone craving a vacation, should you ever find yourself in Uganda.

How about the scenery? Well, one word – breathtaking. Come immerse yourself in the island’s pristine beaches, and vibrant greenery. Bugala Island creates a picturesque setting like no other while embodying the epitome of natural beauty. By the way, did you know that Kalangala serves as the main town on Bugala Island? Now you know.

Here’s more – Explore vibrant markets overflowing with local crafts. That’s right! You could decide to simply hang around on the beach shores, or witness the traditional fishing practices.

It takes about 3.5 hours by ferry from Entebbe to Bugala.

So, can you swim in the Ssese Islands? Yes, you can. Some people say the clear, cool water is perfect for swimming on a hot afternoon. Others did describe it as a rewarding experience. A few popular swimming spots like Mutumbala Beach, which by the way, is the largest island in the archipelago. It also has designated areas for accommodations. There’s a catch, some say swimming on these islands is not advisable due to the risk of bilharzia. This disease is thought to be present in the lake, but very rare. There’s a better option though – swim in the hotel pool instead.

Banda Island: A Tranquil Escape

Imagine a beach with clean and crystal clear waters right next to a rainforest. Think about the possibilities of all the fun, peace and quiet you’ll enjoy while there. Now, imagine waking up to the sound of birds singing, and the waves as they violently crash gently onto the shore, sending a cool mist into the air.

Top this magical experience with a campfire, some yummy food, and comfortable accommodation. What’s more? A team is on standby to care for you for as long as you’re there. I mean, isn’t that worth the trip? I know it is.

Oh, and if you’ve had enough of the waters, hit the hills through the rainforests and enjoy the splendid view of the Ssese islands. Now that’s Banda Island, the second largest island in the Ssese group and it offers a true escape for those seeking a connection with nature.

But wait, there’s more! For the adventurous soul, you can rent canoes for a refreshing exploration of the crystal-clear waters of Lake Victoria. Or, maybe cast your line and see if you can reel in a feisty tilapia or a magnificent Nile perch. Get ready for a thrilling experience for anglers of all levels.

Ngamba Island: A Sanctuary for Chimpanzees

Calling all animal lovers! Ngamba Island, also known as Chimp Island, is a sanctuary dedicated to the care and rehabilitation of orphaned and rescued chimpanzees. This project was established by the Jane Goodall Foundation, and it offers a unique opportunity to observe these intelligent primates in a semi-natural environment. Witness their playful interactions, heartwarming family bonds, and remarkable intelligence firsthand.

Bulago Island: A Nature Enthusiast’s Playground

Are you a nature enthusiast and trekker seeking an adrenaline rush adventure? If so, Bulago Island is the place to be. This beautiful island boasts diverse terrain, from rocky outcrops to lush woodlands, making it a paradise for exploration. Lace up your hiking boots and choose from a variety of trails, each offering scenic views of the shimmering Lake Victoria. Here’s more – keep your ears and eyes open as you listen to a diverse array of birdlife and uncommon wildlife. This, right here, is a true adventure for those who love the great outdoors.

Bukasa Island

Up north on Bugala Island, you’ll find Bukasa Island. Oh, and did you know that getting to Bugala Island takes about 29 minutes, and only costs $1? That’s right.

Bukasa Island is a hidden gem on Lake Victoria waiting to be explored. While not as extensively developed for tourism as some of the other islands we’ve mentioned above, Bukasa offers a tranquil escape and a chance to experience the beauty of Ssese in a more rustic way.

How to Get To Ssese Islands From Kampala

First, you must take a taxi from Kampala; I recommend downloading the Uber app. The journey from Kampala to Entebbe takes approximately an hour or less, depending on traffic. In late 2023, Uber cars (the little ones) charged between UGX110-150K. A taxi will charge approximately UGX100 – 120K plus toll fees which is roughly UGX 5, 000.

It could be cheaper, but I discourage you from taking boda-boda to Entebbe. Although the road is good it is unsafe because of rampant traffic accidents. It is scary riding behind a tiny motorbike while road trains and lorries zoom by.

How to Get To Ssese Islands From Entebbe by Ferry

I would recommend you stay in Entebbe the night before travel to Ssesse Islands. There are many affordable and eco-friendly guesthouses and hotels in Entebbe.

A budget hunter, I recently stayed at Migingo Suites in Nakiwogo, right next to the dock, for approximately A$20 per night, breakfast inclusive. The prices could have gone up, please check with the operator Patrick Ochieng on his mobile +256 753 502 851 or book via the website above.

It is confusing as to who owns the ferries, and NODL has two overlapping websites; mvnodltoursandtravel and mvnodlvictoria.

However, the oldest ferry, the MV Kalangala, is owned by Government but managed by the National Oil Distributors Ltd (NODL), a private company. MV Kalangala departs Lutoboka Bay, Kalangala at 8.00 am and arrives in Nakiwogo, Entebbe at 11.30am. It then departs Nakiwogo at 2pm and arrives in Kalangala at 5.30 pm, taking approximately 3.5 hours. You’ll pay 10.000 Ugx for an ordinary ticket and VIP costs Ugx 14.000 per person. Please check with operators for the latest fares.

You might wonder what the difference is between Kalangala and Ssesse Island as the two are sometimes used interchangeably – there is none, in my view, and dont get confused. Simply, Kalangala is the administrative district of the island while Ssesse is the name give to all the islands, due to tsetse flies found in the island.

Besides MVKalangala, NODL has two catamarans mvnodlvictoria and mvnodlexpress. It is not clear whether these two vessels are currently operational, their facebook page seems to be inactive. Please contact the company on Tel: +256752784617 or email info@mvnodlvictoria.com for more information

According to the company website mvnodl victoria has the following capacity and facilities:

Platinum Class (6-10 seater)

Tourist Coach (47 seater)

Gold Class (33 seater)

Silver Class (43 seater)

Mv nodl express on the other hand is a 240 ship with 60 VIP class and 167 Economy Class.

The third way to travel to the islands is via the Nyanza Evergreen Waterways which operates two catamarans, mv vanessa and mv nathalie. The boats operate between Nakiwogo (Entebbe) and Lutoboka (Ssesse) and travel Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Sundays, being off on Wednesdays and Saturdays, according to their current schedule. The cost of one way travel is UGX 35,000, a return leg costs double (UGX70,000). The one way price for Sundays is UGX 55,000 while the return trip is UGX 100,000. You can book tickets via Nyanza Evergreen Waterways website or contact the company on Phone: +256 774 034362 or Email: admin@nyanzaevergreen.com. Nyanza Evergreen Waterways gets good Google Reviews.

Date	Route	Departure Time	PRICE
MONDAY	Kal – Ebb	N/A	1 way – 35,000 shs
	Ebb – Kal	01:00 PM	Return – 70,000 shs

TUESDAY	Kal – Ebb	09:00 AM	1 way – 35,000 shs
	Ebb – Kal	01:00 PM	Return – 70,000 shs

THURSDAY	Kal – Ebb	09:00 AM	1 way – 35,000 shs
	Ebb – Kal	01:00 PM	Return – 70,000 shs

FRIDAY	Kal – Ebb	09:00 AM	1 way – 55,000 shs
	Ebb – Kal	04:00 PM	Return – 100,000 shs

SUNDAY	Kal – Ebb	02:00 PM	1 way – 55,000 shs
	Ebb – Kal	N/A	Return – 100,000 shs

How to Get To Ssese Islands From Entebbe By Flight

Another way to get to the Island is by MAF flights. Mission Aviation Fellowship (MAF) has been operating in Uganda since 1986 to support church and development agencies with flights. MAF operates both CESSNA 206 and CESSNA Carravan to fly passengers and haul cargo.

You can also “shuttle” MAF flights to Western Uganda (Mbarara, Kihihi, Fortpotal, Kasese, Kinyara, Kisoro), Northern and Eastern Uganda (Moyo, Arua, Adjumani, Gulu, Pader, Kaabong, Kotido, Moroto, Matany, Soroti) and Western Equatorial in South Sudan (Yambio).

Besides, you can charter a flight to Ssesse Islands. The cost of flights are not stated on the website. Please request to book or contact the company on Phone +256 31 2359623.

Best accommodation in Ssese islands

Accommodation is abound, just board and go, is my advice to you!

Are you a solo traveller, a couple wanting to have some quiet time away from prying eyes, a couple wanting to tie the knot, a family wanting kids to have a good time, or a hardcore traveller and creator wanting to experience something new on a budget? Ssesse islands have all types of accommodation suitable for you, most concentrated around the main island of Kalangala with beach access. These accommodations also offer activities like bird watching, fishing, riding, bushwalking, bonfire and so forth. Before booking, look at the type of activities they offer and dont fear to ask questions, we want you to enjoy your stay in Kalangala.

Here is a list of top rated hotels and lodges: