Bulago Island: A Hidden Gem on Lake Victoria

Bulago Island is a 500-acre island in Lake Victoria that offers a secluded and luxurious getaway for those who want to escape from the busy city life of Kampala. I discovered this place thanks to a friend who had rented the villa on the island for a group celebration. I was intrigued by the idea of spending a weekend on a private island, so I decided to give it a try.

The Villa: A Spacious and Comfortable Retreat

The villa on Bulago Island is run by One Minute South, a company that also sells woodwork sculptures, including a striking one of President Museveni in safari gear. The villa has seven bedrooms, four in the main house and three in the guest house, and can accommodate up to 16 people. It also has a swimming pool, a hammock, a volleyball or badminton net, and a private beach. The best part of the villa is the chef, Bosco, who prepares delicious meals using fresh ingredients, such as lake fish, gazpacho, and salad. He also caters to different dietary preferences, such as vegetarian or gluten-free. The villa costs USD 500 for the first night and USD 450 for subsequent nights, with everything included except drinks. You can bring your own drinks or buy them from the villa’s bar.

The Island: A Natural and Cultural Paradise

Bulago Island is not only a place to relax and enjoy the sun, but also a place to explore and discover. The island has rich wildlife, such as monkeys, birds, and butterflies, and you can take a walk around the island and see them. You can also take a boat trip to the nearby islands, such as Ngamba Island, where you can visit the chimpanzee sanctuary. You can also learn about the history and culture of the island, such as the discovery of the equator by the Victorian explorers and the local crafts and traditions. The island is about an hour’s boat ride from Entebbe’s boat club or a 15-minute flight from Kampala Air Strip. The boat ride is included in the villa’s price, while the flight is an extra option.

The Experience: A Memorable and Enjoyable Weekend

I had a wonderful time on Bulago Island, and I would highly recommend it to anyone who is looking for a special and unique weekend getaway. The villa was spacious and comfortable, the food was tasty and varied, and the staff was friendly and helpful. The island was beautiful and peaceful, and I enjoyed the activities and the scenery. The only downside was the lake flies, which were annoying and persistent, especially during the full moon. So make sure to avoid visiting the island during that time, or bring some insect repellent. Other than that, Bulago Island was a perfect place to celebrate, unwind, and have fun.