Lake Mburo National Park: A Tranquil Wildlife Haven in Uganda
Lake Mburo National Park is a hidden gem in Uganda’s southwestern region, located just a few hours’ drive from the capital city, Kampala.
Although it is one of Uganda’s smallest national parks, covering an area of 370 square kilometers, Lake Mburo offers a unique blend of savannah, woodland, wetland and open water ecosystems.
The park is a sanctuary for wildlife enthusiasts and bird watchers providing a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
With its rolling hills, scenic lakes and rich biodiversity, Lake Mburo National Park is the perfect destination for a serene safari experience.
Why Visit Lake Mburo National Park?
Lake Mburo National Park stands out for its scenic beauty, diverse landscapes, and abundant wildlife.
Unlike Uganda’s other national parks, which are often characterized by dense forests and rugged terrains, Lake Mburo offers a more open environment that makes game viewing easier.
The park is known for its impressive populations of impala, zebras, buffaloes, and elands, which are not found in other Ugandan parks.
Additionally, Lake Mburo is one of the few parks where you can enjoy a walking safari allowing you to get up close to nature.
Key Attractions in Lake Mburo National Park
Lake Mburo
The park’s namesake lake is the largest of the five lakes found within the park. Lake Mburo is the centerpiece of the park and provides a stunning backdrop for wildlife viewing.
The lake is home to hippos, crocodiles and a variety of aquatic birds making it a fantastic spot for a boat safari.
A boat trip on Lake Mburo offers a chance to see animals such as buffaloes and antelopes coming to drink at the water’s edge.
Game Viewing
Lake Mburo National Park is known for its abundant wildlife including rare species such as impala which are only found in this park in Uganda.
The park is also home to zebras, elands, topis, giraffes and leopards. Game drives provide excellent opportunities to see these animals in their natural habitat.
Unlike in many larger parks, the smaller size of Lake Mburo makes it easier to spot wildlife throughout the park.
Bird Watching
Lake Mburo National Park is a birding paradise boasting over 350 bird species.
Some of the notable species include the African fish eagle, pied kingfisher, African wattled lapwing and the rare red-faced barbet which is only found in this part of Uganda.
The park’s diverse habitats including wetlands, woodlands and open savannah, support a wide range of birdlife, making it a must-visit destination for bird watchers.
Rubanga Forest
Located on the western side of the park, Rubanga Forest is a small but significant forest area that adds to the park’s diversity.
The forest is home to various bird species, butterflies, and tree species, including the fig tree.
A guided walk through Rubanga Forest offers a chance to explore a different side of the park, where you can spot bushbucks, red-tailed monkeys, and a wide range of birdlife.
Salt Licks
Lake Mburo National Park is known for its natural salt licks, which attract a variety of animals, especially during the dry season.
A raised wooden platform near one of the salt licks provides a perfect vantage point to observe animals such as zebras, buffaloes, and antelopes as they come to lick the salty soil.
Things to Do in Lake Mburo National Park
- Game Drives
The park’s open savannah and woodland provide excellent conditions for game drives, with morning and evening drives offering the best chances for wildlife viewing.
You can explore different areas of the park, such as the Zebra Track, Kazuma Track and the Lakeside Track which are known for their concentration of wildlife.
- Walking Safaris
Lake Mburo National Park is one of the few places in Uganda where walking safaris are permitted.
Guided nature walks provide an opportunity to get close to wildlife on foot, learn about the park’s flora and fauna and enjoy the serenity of the natural environment.
The walks usually take place in the morning or late afternoon when the temperatures are cooler and animals are more active.
- Boat Safaris
A boat safari on Lake Mburo is a relaxing way to explore the park and see wildlife from a different perspective.
You will have the chance to spot hippos, crocodiles and a variety of water birds.
The boat trip also offers stunning views of the park’s landscape and is a perfect way to end a day of adventure.
- Bird Watching
With over 350 bird species, Lake Mburo is a bird-watcher’s paradise.
The park offers excellent bird-watching opportunities from both land and water.
You can explore different habitats including the lakeshore, wetlands and woodland, to spot a wide variety of birds.
- Horseback Safaris
Lake Mburo National Park is the only park in Uganda that offers horseback safaris, providing a unique way to experience the wildlife and scenery.
Horseback safaris are conducted by Mihingo Lodge, and they allow you to get closer to animals like zebras, impalas, and giraffes without the noise of a vehicle.
Best Time to Visit
Lake Mburo National Park can be visited year-round, but the best time for wildlife viewing is during the dry seasons, from June to August and December to February.
During these months, the vegetation is thinner, making it easier to spot animals, and many animals gather around water sources.
The rainy seasons, from March to May and September to November, bring lush vegetation and an abundance of birdlife, making it an excellent time for bird watching.
Getting There
Lake Mburo National Park is conveniently located about 240 kilometers (150 miles) from Kampala, making it one of the most accessible national parks in Uganda.
The park is about a 3-4 hour drive from Kampala along the Masaka-Mbarara highway.
The park’s proximity to the capital makes it an ideal destination for a weekend getaway or a stopover on the way to other national parks in western Uganda.
Where to Stay
There are several accommodation options within and around Lake Mburo National Park, ranging from luxury lodges to budget campsites.
Some popular choices include Mihingo Lodge, a luxurious eco-friendly lodge built on a rocky outcrop with panoramic views of the park, and Rwakobo Rock, which offers mid-range accommodation with comfortable cottages and a serene environment.
Budget travelers can stay at the UWA bandas or camp at designated campsites within the park.
Conservation and Community Involvement
Lake Mburo National Park is managed by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA), which works to conserve the park’s unique ecosystem while promoting sustainable tourism.
Community involvement is also a key aspect of conservation efforts, with initiatives such as local guides and community-run accommodation providing income and employment opportunities for people living around the park.
Plan Your Safari to Lake Mburo Today!
Escape to Lake Mburo National Park and discover Uganda’s hidden gem, where serene lakes meet rolling savannahs and wildlife roams free.
Whether you’re looking for a quick getaway from Kampala, a stopover en route to other national parks, or a unique adventure, Lake Mburo offers something for everyone.
From walking safaris and boat trips to horseback riding and bird watching, Lake Mburo provides a tranquil and memorable safari experience that will leave you wanting more.
