Lake Mburo National Park is a compact gem located along the Kampala – Mbarara highway, connecting the central region to the west. It is the smallest of Uganda’s savanna national parks Covering 370 sq km and is home to over 350 bird species as well as zebras, impalas, buffaloes. The park offers a unique combination of acacia woodlands, savannah grasslands, and wetland habitats, creating a rich and vibrant ecosystem.
Lake Mburo National Park forms a 50km long wetland system together with other lakes in the area. In the western part of the park, the savanna is interspersed with rocky ridges and forested gorges while patches of papyrus swamp line many lakes.
Things to See in Lake Mburo National Park
While on a Uganda safari through the Lake Mburo National Park, there are lots of things to see within the park. From the rare Elands to the uniquely stripped zebras, there is a rich flora and fauna to see in the savanna park;
Zebras: Lake Mburo National Park is the only park in Uganda where you can find zebras. These magnificent animals roam freely in the grasslands and woodlands of the park. Witnessing their striking black-and-white striped coats against the backdrop of the park’s scenery is a remarkable sight.
Impalas and Elands: The park is home to large populations of impalas and elands. These graceful antelopes can be seen grazing in the open plains and grassy areas. Keep an eye out for their distinctive markings and impressive horns.
Buffalo Herds: Lake Mburo National Park is known for its impressive herds of African buffaloes. These massive animals can often be spotted in groups, grazing or wallowing in mud near water sources. Their sheer size and strength make for an awe-inspiring sight.
Hippos and Crocodiles: Lake Mburo itself is a habitat for hippos and crocodiles. Take a boat trip on the lake to witness these aquatic creatures up close. Keep your camera ready to capture the sight of hippos basking in the sun or submerged in the water, and crocodiles lurking along the banks.
Birds: Lake Mburo National Park is a paradise for birdwatchers. With over 350 recorded bird species, you’ll have ample opportunities to spot a diverse range of avian life. Look out for the African finfoot, the elusive shoebill stork, the African fish eagle, the white-winged warbler, and a variety of kingfishers, herons, and raptors.
Acacia Woodland: The park’s acacia woodland is not only a scenic landscape but also a habitat for various animal species. As you explore the park, keep an eye out for wildlife such as warthogs, bushbucks, oribi, and other small mammals that inhabit the woodland areas.
Scenic Landscapes: Lake Mburo National Park offers breathtaking vistas and stunning landscapes. From rolling hills and open savannahs to lush wetlands and the glistening waters of Lake Mburo, the park’s beauty is bound to captivate you. Take in the panoramic views and relish the serene ambiance of this natural paradise.
Rubanga Forest: Explore the Rubanga Forest, which is situated on a small hill in the park. This tropical forest is home to various bird species and offers breathtaking views of the park and surrounding areas.
Mihingo Lodge: This luxury lodge offers stunning views of Lake Mburo and the park’s landscapes. It provides comfortable and spacious cottages built on wooden platforms. The lodge also has a swimming pool and offers activities such as nature walks, horseback safaris, and cultural visits.
Things to Do in Lake Mburo National Park
Game Drives: Embark on a thrilling game drive through the park’s vast savanna grasslands and acacia woodlands. This is an excellent way to spot a wide range of wildlife, including zebras, impalas, elands, buffaloes, giraffes, and various bird species. The park offers both day and night game drives, allowing you to witness different animal behaviors in their natural habitat.
Nature Walks: Take a guided nature walk with an armed ranger to explore the park on foot. This activity allows you to get closer to nature and observe the smaller details of the ecosystem. Your guide will share insights about the plants, animals, and tracks you encounter along the way. It’s a fantastic opportunity for bird watching and immersing yourself in the sights and sounds of Lake Mburo.
Boat Trips: Explore the tranquil waters of Lake Mburo on a boat trip. Hop aboard a boat and glide through the lake, witnessing the beauty of its surroundings and spotting hippos, crocodiles, and an array of water birds. The boat trips usually last for a couple of hours and provide a unique perspective of the park’s wildlife and scenic landscapes.
Horseback Safaris: Experience the thrill of an adventurous horseback safari within the park. Guided by experienced rangers, you can explore the park’s diverse terrain, spotting wildlife from a different vantage point. Horseback safaris offer a sense of connection with nature and an opportunity to get closer to the animals while enjoying the thrill of horse riding.
Bird Watching: Lake Mburo National Park is a haven for bird enthusiasts. With over 350 bird species recorded in the area, it provides ample opportunities for birdwatching. The park’s diverse habitats support a wide range of birds, including the African finfoot, the rare shoebill stork, the African fish eagle, and the white-winged warbler. Remember to bring your binoculars and a field guide to enhance your birding experience.
Cultural Encounters: Lake Mburo National Park is surrounded by several communities, including the Bahima and Banyankole tribes. Engage in cultural encounters and visit local villages to learn about their traditions, customs, and ways of life. You can participate in traditional dances, visit craft markets, or even enjoy a traditional meal with the locals.
Photography: Lake Mburo National Park offers breathtaking scenery and incredible wildlife, making it a photographer’s paradise. Capture stunning images of wildlife in their natural habitats, the reflective waters of Lake Mburo, and the dramatic landscapes. Remember to bring your camera equipment and capture unforgettable moments during your visit.
When is the Best Time to Visit Lake Mburo?
The best time to visit Lake Mburo National Park is during the dry seasons, which are generally from June to August and December to February. During these months, the weather is generally pleasant, with lower chances of rainfall and clearer skies. Advantages of visiting during this period include better wildlife viewing, better accessibility to the park and better view of the migratory birds.
Lake Mburo National Park can be visited year-round, and each season has its unique appeal. The wet season, from March to May and September to November, brings lush green landscapes, fewer crowds, and an opportunity to witness the park’s bird nesting and breeding activities. The landscapes are also beautiful, with blooming flowers and abundant vegetation.
How to Get to Lake Mburo National Park
By Road: Lake Mburo National Park is located about 240 kilometers (150 miles) southwest of Kampala, the capital city of Uganda. You can travel to the park by road using private vehicles, taxis, or hired drivers. The journey takes approximately 3-4 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. The main road to the park is the Kampala-Mbarara Road (also known as the Masaka-Mbarara Road). From the main road, there is a well-marked turnoff to the park entrance.
By Air: If you prefer a quicker and more convenient option, you can fly to the nearest airstrip to Lake Mburo National Park. Mbarara Airport is the closest airport, located about 70 kilometers (43 miles) from the park. From Mbarara, you can arrange ground transportation to the park. Charter flights can also be arranged to airstrips within or near the park, such as Kihiihi Airstrip or Sanga Airstrip.
Public Transportation: Public buses and mini buses, known as matatus, operate between Kampala and Mbarara. From Mbarara, you can hire a taxi or arrange for a private driver to take you to the park. It’s important to note that public transportation options may not provide direct access to the park entrance, and you may need to arrange additional transportation or transfers to reach your desired destination within the park.
Where to Stay in Lake Mburo National Park
Mburo Safari Lodge: Situated on a hilltop, Mburo Safari Lodge provides panoramic views of the park. The lodge offers various accommodation options, including luxurious cottages and tents. Guests can enjoy guided nature walks, boat safaris, and game drives.
Rwakobo Rock: Nestled on a granite rock hill, Rwakobo Rock offers budget-friendly accommodation options such as cottages and bandas. The lodge provides a relaxed and tranquil atmosphere, and guests can enjoy activities such as game drives, bird watching, and cultural experiences.
Arcadia Cottages: Located near Lake Mburo, Arcadia Cottages offer self-contained cottages with beautiful views of the park. The cottages are equipped with basic amenities, and guests can participate in game drives, boat safaris, and bird watching.
Eagles Nest: Situated on the outskirts of the park, Eagles Nest provides budget-friendly accommodation options, including cottages and camping facilities. The lodge offers guided nature walks, bird watching, and cultural visits.
Mantana Tented Camp: Located just outside the park, Mantana Tented Camp offers comfortable tents with en-suite facilities. The camp provides a restaurant, bar, and activities such as game drives and bush walks.