As the 4th Uganda – UAE Business Forum 2025 wraps up in Kampala, spotlighting tourism and sustainable investment, a new eco-friendly event is capturing attention in southwestern Uganda.
The second edition of the Lake Bunyonyi Eco Marathon 2025, scheduled for November 2nd, 2025, at Kabale Main Stadium, promises to blend fitness with environmental stewardship.
Organized by Cepcom Uganda and partners, this 20K marathon aims to attract 500 participants while raising awareness about solid waste management to protect the pristine Lake Bunyonyi, a vital ecological gem.
Lake Bunyonyi Conservation Efforts
Lake Bunyonyi, often dubbed Africa’s second-deepest lake, is a critical water source for millions and a biodiversity hotspot in the Kigezi Region.
However, it faces threats from deforestation, soil erosion, and pollution. Conservation initiatives, such as Self Help Africa’s “Striking A Balance” project, are making strides by training farmers in sustainable practices like trench digging, check-dams, and tree planting to curb siltation.
With a recent injection of 82 million Ugandan shillings into community conservation funds, local farmers like Christina Akankwasa are adopting eco-friendly livelihoods, including beekeeping and mushroom growing, to reduce pressure on the lake’s ecosystem.
The Eco Marathon aligns with these efforts, emphasizing waste management to prevent pollution, a growing concern as tourism rises.
Participants are encouraged to support this cause, making the event a celebration of both health and heritage.
Other Ugandan Eco-Tourism Events
Uganda’s eco-tourism scene is thriving, offering diverse experiences:
– Gorilla Tracking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park: A flagship activity, attracting global visitors to trek mountain gorillas, often combined with cultural village walks.
– Chimpanzee Tracking in Kibale National Park: Managed by community groups like KAFRED, this initiative supports local economies while promoting wildlife conservation.
– Bird Watching at Queen Elizabeth National Park: Home to over 600 bird species, this event draws ornithologists and nature enthusiasts year-round.
– Rwenzori Mountaineering: Hill climbing and hiking in the “Mountains of the Moon” cater to adventure seekers, with eco-conscious guiding services.
These events underscore Uganda’s shift toward responsible travel, as highlighted by Uganda Eco Tours, which promotes minimal environmental impact and community empowerment.
Tour Packages to Experience Lake Bunyonyi and Kigezi Region
Visitors can immerse themselves in the region’s beauty with tailored packages:
– 3-Day Lake Bunyonyi Eco Escape: Includes canoeing, bird watching, and a guided hike, starting at $250 per person, offered by Bunyonyi Overland Resort. This package also features a visit to the Kasubi Tombs and UWEC Entebbe for a cultural and conservation blend.
– 5-Day Kigezi Adventure: Combines gorilla trekking in Bwindi, a Lake Bunyonyi boat cruise, and a cultural tour of Kabale’s Bakiga heritage, priced at $600 per person, available through Njojjo Tours Uganda.
– 7-Day Eco-Cultural Journey: Encompasses chimpanzee tracking in Kibale, Lake Bunyonyi exploration, and community walks, costing $900 per person, organized by Sight View Safaris.
These packages emphasize sustainable travel, supporting local guides and conservation projects.
Accommodation Near Lake Bunyonyi and Kabale Town
– Bunyonyi Overland Resort: Nestled on the lake’s shores, it offers stunning views, canoeing, and tour packages including gorilla and chimpanzee trekking. Rates start at $80 per night.
– Bunyonyi Safaris Resort: Known for its serene lakeside setting and excellent meals, it provides comfortable rooms from $70 per night.
– Fravan Eco Resort: A budget-friendly option with eco-camping and hiking, starting at $50 per night, ideal for eco-conscious travelers.
– Crane Resort Hotel (Kabale Town): A central stay with town views and modern amenities, priced from $60 per night, perfect for marathon attendees.
Transport Services to and from Kabale
– Air Transport: Uganda Airlines offers flights from Entebbe International Airport to Kihihi Airstrip (near Bwindi), with connections to Kabale via road transfer, starting at $150 one-way.
– Road Transport: Reliable bus services like Post Bus and Jaguar Executive Coaches run daily from Kampala to Kabale (approximately 7-8 hours), with fares around UGX 50,000 – 70,000.
– Private Transfers: Bunyonyi Overland Resort arranges shuttle services from Kabale to the lake (30 minutes) for $30 per trip.
Rental Car Service with Responsible Tourism Company
For a sustainable travel option, Responsible Tourism Company offers eco-friendly rental cars in Kabale, book with us for a seamless travel experience.
Contact via email at info@responsibletourismcompany.com or call +256 704 023 485. Rentals include a briefing on minimizing carbon footprints, aligning with the company’s commitment to green tourism.
As the Lake Bunyonyi Eco Marathon approaches, the event stands as a beacon of Uganda’s growing eco-tourism sector, blending sport, conservation, and community engagement.
Kit sales are ongoing at Kabale Sports Centre and Cepcom Uganda branches, with the event promising an unforgettable experience on November 2nd.
For more details, follow @TourismBoardUg on X.
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