ssese islands
This cluster of little islands in Lake Victoria used to be a booming area for tourists to visit. After the ferry shut down it came off the network and is working its way back to being a tourist destination. If you want to get off the beaten path and relax on a tranquil island in Uganda’s largest lake, Lake Victoria, this is the place for you. It is well worth the journey.
ferry options
There are two ferry sites you can use to get to these islands. The typical one is from Nakiwogo dock in Entebbe and can be taken around 2 PM and lands in Kalangala Bay on Buggala Island. The other option which is from Bukakata near Masaka and lands at Luku/Bugoma which is on the Western aspect of the island. This is approximately 32 km to Kalangala and can be reached in shared taxis/pick up trucks for small fee. As the ferry from Bukakata is more of a local ferry it departs and returns more often.
ferry tips if taking Bukakata ferry
As we were staying in Masaka, we hired a private driver to bring us to the ferry dock. The driver dropped us off and we went up to a small hut to check in for the ferry. When we got there, they asked for our passports which unfortunately we had left behind in Masaka not knowing we had to have them on us. This unlikely is to happen to most travelers but something to be aware of. Luckily we had printed and digital versions and they were accepted but we could have be in world of trouble as our driver had just left and we had no way to contact anyone. We added a buffer of time given we were not sure of the process. We waited amongst many other passengers on the ground for the boat to arrive. Per usual, everything runs on Africa time and the Ferry was very delayed. When it arrived vehicles were unloaded and new vehicles loaded on while oncoming passengers had to wait by the side. Suddenly, the Ferry boat pulled it is horn and every Ugandan began sprinting toward the ferry. We grabbed are bags and began running towards the boat and made it on just in time as the boat was pulling from the shore. So be prepared to run onto the boat in this fashion. Once you arrive, you will be on the Western aspect of the island and will need to catch a ride to the tourist area on the opposite side of the island. The options may not be plentiful, so work quickly to secure a ride. From our hotel we arranged a ride back to the ferry in advance. This ride included getting from the western aspect of the island back to the ferry. At the ferry, you must get out of the car in board as a passenger. After the ferry returns to the mainland, you are able to get back into the vehicle after it disembarked and complete the journey to the center of Masaka. As we were staying in Masaka, we got a ride back to our place on a boda boda. However, if you are going on to your next destination, you will be in perfect position to catch a private hirer or bus to your next destination.
where to stay
Pearl Gardens
Huge expansive of pinkish orange cottages. Large swimming pool and bar area. Camping is also available.
Ssese Islands Beach Hotel
Variety of motel style rooms facing the water. Also with a restaurant, bar, and ‘golf course’.
Ssese Islands Club
These wooden cottages have well executed bathrooms and wood fired hot water. The rooms are clean, but slightly dated. The family that runs this place is great, and the service is awesome. The food is also very good. The ‘foil fish’ is better than the ‘fried fish’, although both are whole tilapia. All meals can be taken on the beach. There is a full board option.
Mirembe Beach
Cement cottages and rooms facing the beach. It has a large well done restaurant.
Brovad Beach
The last lodge on the beach. Very well done cottages with porches. The bar/reception area is beautifully done, and has a collection of the most comfortable seating. Meals are often served buffet style, although there is an ala carte menu. They also have WiFi, which seems to be unique on the island.
Victoria forest Lodge
Located far to the other side of the ferry dock and it appears to be mostly unfinished buildings, but has 8-10 rooms open and a restaurant. Full board available.
things to do ssese islands
Enjoy the beautiful white sand beaches. Despite the beauty of the water, you should be aware that the water is infested with Bilharzia. If you wish to go swimming, you will need to get proper treatment to prevent this disease. You should also be aware that crocodiles can be present in the water.
There are amazing views and great hiking. The island is primarily rainforest and hosts great bird viewing and some small primate viewing (monkeys).
The island is sleepy, and most restaurants and bars are associated with hotel resorts, but you can really enjoy some small hole in the wall places by walking through the city.
You can partake in activities such as canoeing, quad biking, bicycle riding, nature walks, campfires on the beach and more.
You will definitely leaving feeling relaxed!
