A Road Trip to Lake Mburo National Park

A Road Trip to Lake Mburo National Park

Embarking on a road trip to Lake Mburo National Park is a fantastic way to experience the beauty of Uganda’s wildlife. Located just a short drive from the capital, Kampala, this park makes for an ideal overnight stop for travelers heading to the western national parks, including the renowned Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park. Lake Mburo National Park offers a perfect opportunity to break up your journey while immersing yourself in the stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife that Uganda has to offer.

Lake Mburo National Park is the smallest savannah national park in Uganda, yet it boasts an impressive variety of wildlife, including 69 species of mammals and 332 species of birds. It’s unique for being the only park in Uganda where you can find impalas and the only one in western Uganda where zebras, giraffes, and elands roam freely. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast or simply looking to explore, Lake Mburo National Park offers a range of exciting activities and attractions during your visit.

Activities to Enjoy in Lake Mburo National Park

Day Game Drives

Game drives are a highlight of any trip to Lake Mburo National Park. You can embark on these drives during the morning, mid-morning, afternoon, or evening, making it easy to fit one into your schedule. The best times for game viewing are early mornings and late afternoons, when you’re likely to spot a variety of savannah animals and birds, including giraffes, zebras, elands, topis, and impalas.

Night Game Drives

For a unique experience, consider a night game drive. This adventure allows you to see nocturnal animals such as bushbabies and pottos. With a bit of luck, you might even catch a glimpse of a rare leopard.

Lake Mburo Boat Safari

A two-hour boat safari on Lake Mburo is another must-do activity. This serene journey offers an excellent chance to observe crocodiles, hippos, and various waterbirds in their natural habitat.

Walking Safaris

Experience the beauty of the savannah up close on a walking safari. This intimate experience allows you to connect with the park’s wildlife while providing fantastic photo opportunities and insights into the animals’ behaviors.

Mountain Biking

For adventure seekers, mountain biking is available through Rwakobo Rock and Leopard Rest Camp. This exhilarating activity lets you explore the park while enjoying the thrill of riding amidst the wildlife.

Birding

Birdwatchers will find Lake Mburo a paradise, with 332 recorded bird species. Notable sightings include the papyrus gonolek, papyrus yellow warbler, white-winged warbler, and the majestic shoebill stork.

Forest Walk

The small forested area on the western side of Lake Mburo is a great spot for birdwatching, hosting various forest bird species that add to the park’s avian diversity.

Horseback Safaris

If you’re looking for a unique way to encounter wildlife, consider a horseback safari, operated by Mihingo Lodge. This activity offers a thrilling experience of observing animals from the back of a horse. However, advance booking is recommended, as spots fill up quickly.

Attractions in Lake Mburo National Park

Wildlife

Lake Mburo National Park is home to a rich diversity of wildlife, with 69 mammal species, many of which are rarely found elsewhere. The park is the only place in Uganda where you can see impalas and the only western park where giraffes, zebras, and elands can be found.

Birdlife

Renowned for its birdwatching opportunities, Lake Mburo attracts many bird enthusiasts year-round, thanks to its vast array of over 332 bird species.

Local Ankole Cattle

While exploring the park, you may encounter local herdsmen tending to their Ankole cattle—famous for their long horns. This presents a wonderful opportunity to learn about the local culture and traditions surrounding these unique cattle.

Viewpoints and Sightseeing

Don’t miss the stunning views from Kigarama Hill, which offers a panoramic vista of Lake Mburo and the surrounding plains—perfect for breathtaking photographs and moments of reflection.

How to Access Lake Mburo National Park

By Road

Lake Mburo National Park is conveniently situated between the towns of Masaka and Mbarara, close to the main southwestern road that connects Kampala to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park. The distance from Kampala to Lake Mburo is approximately 228 kilometers, which translates to about a 3-4 hour drive. There are several entry points to the park, including the Kyanyanshara Gate, which leads to Mihingo Lodge; Akgate Gate; and Sanga Gate, which provides access to Rwakobo Rock Lodge. Thanks to its proximity to the main road, the park is easily accessible, and you can follow the signposts provided by the Uganda Wildlife Authority to reach your destination.

By Air

For those looking to save time, a flying safari to Lake Mburo National Park is also an option. Charter and scheduled flights are available from Kajjansi and Entebbe International Airport, operated by companies such as Aero Link Uganda and Fly Uganda. It’s important to book these flights in advance, as scheduling depends on the number of travelers; a minimum of four passengers is usually required for a flight to operate.

Where to Stay in Lake Mburo National Park

When it comes to accommodations in Lake Mburo National Park, you have a variety of options to suit your budget:

• Budget Options: Affordable lodges include Rwonyo Rest Camp, UWA Bandas and Campsite, Leopard Rest Camp, and Mantana Tented Camp, with prices ranging from $90 to $100 per night per person.
• Mid-Range Options: For a comfortable stay, consider Rwakobo Rock Lodge, Mpongo Lodge, Mburo Safari Lodge, or Acadia Lodge, with rates between $100 and $200 per night per person.
• Luxury Options: If you’re looking to indulge, Mihingo Safari Lodge and Emburara Lodge offer upscale accommodations, with prices ranging from $200 to $400 per night per person.

For travelers arriving by air, it’s advisable to spend at least one night in Entebbe or Kampala before and after your safari. This allows for better travel arrangements and minimizes the risk of missing flights due to unexpected delays, such as lost luggage or missed connections.

Best Time to Visit Lake Mburo National Park

The ideal time to visit Lake Mburo National Park is during the dry months, specifically from December to February and June to October. During these periods, the roads leading to the park are dry and accessible, making for a smoother journey. Wildlife viewing and game drives are also more fruitful during the dry season, as many animals gather around various water points, making them easier to spot.

While the park can be visited year-round, keep in mind that the wet seasons—March to May and October to November—can present challenges such as muddy roads and less visibility for wildlife.

Embarking on a trip to Lake Mburo National Park promises unforgettable experiences, whether you’re driving or flying. Plan your visit today to discover the beauty and diversity of this remarkable destination!