Lake Mburo National Park is a must-visit destination in Uganda, offering a unique blend of rich wildlife, stunning landscapes, and exciting activities. It’s the best place to see zebras and impalas in large numbers, along with giraffes, buffaloes, hippos, and over 300 bird species. The park’s scenic rolling hills, open savannahs, and tranquil lakes make it perfect for photography and relaxing boat rides. Visitors can enjoy game drives, guided nature walks, bird watching, and even horseback safaris, all in a peaceful setting with smaller crowds. Conveniently located just 3.5 hours from Kampala, Lake Mburo is both accessible and ideal for a memorable wildlife experience.

Game Drives

Explore Lake Mburo’s diverse ecosystems on a game drive, where you’ll encounter zebra, impala, buffalo, and the elusive eland. The park is one of the few places in Uganda where you can spot these graceful antelopes. The lack of large predators also makes it ideal for game drives, allowing for close encounters with animals without the worry of lurking lions or leopards.

Boat Safaris

A boat safari on Lake Mburo provides a different perspective of the park’s wildlife. As you glide across the lake’s calm waters, you’ll see hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of water birds, including the rare African finfoot and the iconic African fish eagle. The boat trips are perfect for birdwatchers and those looking to enjoy the serene beauty of the park.

Bird Watching

Lake Mburo National Park is a haven for birdwatchers, boasting over 350 species. The park’s diverse habitats, including lakes, swamps, and woodlands, attract a wide range of birds. Notable species include the red-faced barbet, papyrus gonolek, and the white-winged warbler. Guided bird walks offer an excellent opportunity to spot these and many other birds.

Nature Walks

Lake Mburo is one of the few national parks in Uganda where visitors can take guided nature walks. These walks allow you to explore the park on foot, offering a more intimate experience with nature. The early morning walks are particularly rewarding, with chances to see wildlife like giraffes and warthogs up close, and perhaps even track fresh animal spoor.

Horseback Safaris 

For a truly unique experience, consider a horseback safari in Lake Mburo. This activity, available at Mihingo Lodge, lets you explore the park without the noise of a vehicle, blending seamlessly into the landscape. Riding among zebra and antelope herds offers a thrilling and peaceful way to connect with nature.

Cultural Encounters 

Beyond the wildlife, Lake Mburo National Park is surrounded by the vibrant Ankole community, known for their long-horned cattle. Cultural encounters include visiting local homesteads to learn about traditional cattle-keeping practices and even participating in milking the cows. These experiences provide insight into the lives of the people who have coexisted with the wildlife for generations.

The entrance fees for Lake Mburo National Park are modest, contributing to the park’s maintenance and conservation efforts. For foreign non-residents, the fee is $40, while foreign residents pay $30. East African citizens enjoy a much lower rate of UGX 20,000. These fees are valid for 24 hours, allowing you to explore the park at your leisure.

When to Visit 

The best time to visit Lake Mburo National Park is during the dry seasons, from June to August and December to February, when wildlife congregates around the water sources. However, the park remains accessible year-round, with each season offering its own unique experiences.

Getting There

Lake Mburo National Park is conveniently located just 3.5 hours from Kampala, making it one of Uganda’s most accessible national parks. The journey offers beautiful views of Uganda’s countryside, with stops along the way to enjoy local crafts and refreshments. For those seeking a faster option, charter flights are available from Entebbe or Kampala to Mbarara, followed by a short drive to the park.