Ssese Islands

If you are searching for pristine places to unwind, visit the Ssese Islands in Uganda. The pristine Ssese Islands are located on the Northwestern side of Lake Victoria. Over 84 islands make up the Ssese Archipelago, and their sizes differ.

The biggest of the 84 islands is Bugala Island, which measures 40 km long. The Ssese archipelago falls under the Kalangala district administration, South-central Uganda. About half of the Ssese Islands comprises human settlements, while others are fishing islands. Tsetse flies historically infested these islands, hence the name Ssese.

Bugala Island is the biggest and most visited island of the 84 islands of the Ssese Islands. Over 26000 people are believed to be staying on Bugala Island, and the other islands to expect to visit include Bubeke, Bufumira, and Bukasa.

The Ssese Islands also feature stunning white sand beaches, flowers, palm trees and unique floral species. Considering their uniqueness, there is no doubt that these islands are perfect photography spots.

2 Major Groups of Ssese Islands

The two categories of Ssese Islands include Koome and Bugala. The Bugala group is found on the Southwestern side of Bugala Island, consisting of Serinya, Bukasa, Funve, Bubeke, Bugaba, and Bufumira. The Koom group islands are comprised of Damba, Koome, and Luwaji.

Bugala Island

Bugala’s size measures about 205 sq. km, making it the biggest of the 84 Ssese Islands. It is also the most explored by Uganda safari tourists. Getting to Bugala is best done using a ferry, and on the island, hills offer exceptional views of Lake Victoria.

At Bugala, there is the most extensive palm oil plantation. Besides, it hosts incredible primates and mammal species, reptiles, colourful butterflies, birds, etc. The commonly spotted primates include colobus monkeys, vervet monkeys, and many others.

Ngamba Island

Ngamba Island, also most popular as Chimpanzee Island, spreads up to 100 acres of land. It became an established sanctuary for orphaned and rescued chimpanzees in 1998. A total of 52 rescued chimpanzees currently survive on this island and share the same habitat with more than 119 bird species. On a visit to this island, you will observe how chimpanzees behave and engage in feeding and taking photos.

Banda Island

Banda Island is also open for tourism, and it is one spot that retains its serenity, which isn’t the case with Bugala Island. The easiest way to get to the island is by taking a boat; if you enjoy camping, it is a remarkable place to visit.

Bulago Island is another big island, spanning 510 acres. The island has sandy beaches comprising cliffs and rocks in the surroundings. This island also protects many resident and migratory bird species.