Home to the Zebra
Lake Mburo National Park, one of Uganda’s smallest but most enchanting national parks, is a treasure trove of diverse wildlife, stunning landscapes, and unique activities that promise an unforgettable adventure. Covering 370 square kilometers, the park is located in Kiruhura District in the western part of the country. Despite its modest size, Lake Mburo National Park offers an impressive array of attractions and activities for nature lovers, bird watchers, and adventure seekers alike.
Top Safaris To Uganda
3 Days Lake Mburo safari
Embark on nature walks, game drives and boat cruises for wildlife sightings in Lake Mburo
Overview of Lake Mburo
Lake Mburo National Park was established in 1983 and is named after Lake Mburo, one of the 13 lakes that form part of a 50-kilometer-long wetland system linked by a swamp. The park’s landscape is characterized by rolling hills, open and wooded savannas, lakes, swamps, and lush forests. It provides a unique habitat for a variety of wildlife, including species not found in other Ugandan parks, such as the impala, slender mongoose, and giant bush rat.
Attractions in Lake Mburo National Park
Wildlife
Lake Mburo National Park is home to a diverse range of animals. Visitors can expect to see:
- Herbivores: Including impalas, elands, buffaloes, and zebras. The park is particularly famous for its population of impalas and zebras.
- Carnivores: Such as leopards and hyenas. While they are more elusive, sightings are possible, especially during night game drives.
- Primates: Including vervet monkeys and olive baboons.
- Birds: Over 350 bird species have been recorded, making it a bird watcher’s paradise. Notable species include the red-faced barbet, the African finfoot, and the white-winged warbler.
Lakes and Wetlands
Lake Mburo and the surrounding wetland system are significant features of the park. These water bodies attract various water birds and offer stunning scenery. The presence of hippos and crocodiles adds an element of thrill to the park’s aquatic environments.
Salt Lick
The salt lick at the edge of Lake Mburo attracts a variety of animals, especially during the dry season. This makes it an excellent spot for wildlife viewing and photography.
Attractions in Lake Mburo National Park
Game Drives
Game drives are one of the best ways to explore the park and see its wildlife. Both day and night game drives are available. Night drives, in particular, offer a chance to see nocturnal animals like leopards, bush babies, and hyenas.
Boat Safaris
Boat trips on Lake Mburo provide a unique perspective of the park’s wildlife, especially aquatic animals like hippos and crocodiles, as well as numerous bird species. The boat safari is a tranquil and scenic experience that brings visitors close to nature.
Nature Walks and Hiking
Guided nature walks are a highlight of Lake Mburo National Park. These walks allow visitors to explore the park on foot, offering a more intimate experience with nature. The walks are conducted by experienced guides who provide insights into the park’s flora and fauna. The Rubanga Forest walk is particularly popular for bird watching.
Horseback Safaris
Lake Mburo National Park is unique in Uganda for offering horseback safaris. This activity, conducted by Mihingo Lodge, provides a quiet and unobtrusive way to view wildlife. It’s an exhilarating experience to ride through the savanna, getting up close to animals that are less likely to be spooked by horses than by vehicles.
Cycling
For the adventurous, the park offers mountain biking safaris. Cycling through the park’s trails is an exciting way to see wildlife and enjoy the scenic landscapes.
Bird Watching
With its diverse habitats, Lake Mburo National Park is a haven for bird watchers. Guided bird watching walks are available, and the park’s varied terrain provides excellent opportunities to spot both water birds and savanna species.
Fishing
Lake Mburo is also a popular spot for fishing. Tilapia is the main catch, and fishing is allowed in designated areas of the lake. Visitors need to bring their own equipment or rent it from nearby lodges.
Best Time to Visit Lake Mburo
The best time to visit Lake Mburo National Park is during the dry seasons, from June to August and December to February. During these periods, the roads within the park are more accessible, and wildlife tends to congregate around water sources, making them easier to spot. However, the park is open year-round, and each season has its own charm. The wet seasons (March to May and September to November) are ideal for bird watching, as migratory birds are present, and the landscape is lush and green.
How to Get There
Lake Mburo National Park is conveniently located about 240 kilometers (150 miles) from Kampala, Uganda’s capital. The park is accessible by road, and the journey typically takes about 3.5 to 4 hours. Here are the main options for getting to the park:
- By Car
The most common way to reach Lake Mburo is by car. Visitors can hire a private vehicle or use a tour operator that provides transportation as part of their safari packages. The main route is via the Masaka-Mbarara road. From Kampala, you head west towards Masaka, then continue towards Mbarara until you reach the park entrance. The road is mostly paved and in good condition, although the last stretch leading to the park entrance can be a bit rough.
- By Public Transport
Public transport is available, although less convenient. Buses and minibuses run from Kampala to Mbarara, where visitors can then hire a taxi or boda-boda (motorcycle taxi) to the park. This option is more affordable but can be time-consuming and less comfortable.
- By Air
For those looking for a quicker and more comfortable option, charter flights are available from Entebbe International Airport or Kajjansi Airfield to Mbarara. From Mbarara, it’s a short drive to the park. This is the most expensive option but offers spectacular aerial views of the Ugandan landscape.
