- Seguku Katale. Kampala
Lake Mburo National Park
Lake Mburo National Park
Lake Mburo National Park is a gem located in the western region of Uganda, approximately 240 kilometers from Kampala. Covering an area of about 260 square kilometers, it is one of the smallest savannah national parks in Uganda but boasts rich biodiversity, including 350 bird species and a variety of wildlife. The park is notably home to large populations of zebra, impala, and eland, and is one of the few places in Uganda where one can see the African finfoot and bush babies.
Activities in Lake Mburo National Park
Game Drives
Lake Mburo offers rewarding game drives through varied landscapes including acacia woodland, wetlands, grassy hillsides, and rocky outcrops. Morning and evening drives are particularly spectacular, offering the chance to see hyenas returning to their dens, as well as hippos, lions, and various antelope species.
Boat Trips
A boat trip on Lake Mburo provides a unique vantage point for wildlife observation and bird watching. The lake is teeming with hippos and crocodiles, and the shores attract a variety of animals including buffalo and antelope. Birdwatchers can delight in viewing kingfishers, fish eagles, and the rare African finfoot among others.
Walking Safaris
Walking safaris in Lake Mburo are an exciting way to experience the bush up close. Guided by experienced rangers, visitors can walk among wildlife such as zebras and antelopes, learning about the ecosystem and the habits of the animals that inhabit it.
Horseback Safaris
Unique to Lake Mburo National Park are the horseback safaris that offer an exhilarating way to view wildlife. Riding through the park allows for close encounters with animals, particularly zebras and buffaloes, in a way that minimizes human impact on the natural environment.
Bird Watching
With more than 350 species recorded in the park, bird watching is a popular activity. The swamps at the western end of the lake are particularly good for spotting rare species like the papyrus yellow warbler and the shoebill stork.
Accommodation Options
Luxury Lodges
– Mihingo Lodge: A luxury eco-lodge that blends into the natural landscape, offering stunning views and first-rate amenities, including a swimming pool that overlooks a waterhole visited by wildlife.
Mid-range Options
– Rwakobo Rock: Located on a scenic outcrop at the edge of the national park, Rwakobo Rock offers comfortable thatched cottages with solar power and water heated by wood fires.
Budget Accommodations
– Eagle’s Nest Lodge: Perched on a hill bordering the park, this budget option offers basic tented accommodations with spectacular panoramic views of the park below.
How to Get There?
Lake Mburo National Park is accessible by road from Kampala along the Kampala-Mbarara highway, with a journey time of about 3.5 to 4 hours. The park entrance is conveniently located near the highway, making it one of the most accessible national parks in Uganda. For those preferring to fly, charter flights can be arranged from Entebbe to an airstrip near the park.
Lake Mburo National Park offers a serene getaway and is perfect for those looking to experience wildlife and nature without the long drives associated with some of Uganda’s more remote parks. Its compact size and diversity of activities make it an ideal destination for both short visits and extended stays.
