Lake Mburo National Park

Activities and Attractions at Lake Mburo National Park

Lake Mburo National Park, with its rich tapestry of habitats and abundant wildlife, offers not just a glimpse into Uganda’s natural heritage but an immersive safari experience that resonates long after the journey ends. Whether exploring by boat, on game drives, or venturing into the night, every moment at Lake Mburo unfolds whispers of the wild, weaving tales of nature’s resilience and beauty.

Lake Mburo Boat Trip

Departing from a jetty near Rwonyo Rest Camp, the two-hour boat trip along Lake Mburo’s eastern shores promises encounters with crocodiles and hippopotamuses. Bird enthusiasts can delight in sightings of pelicans, herons, fish eagles, and even rare species like the finfoot and shoebill.

Game Drives

A network of game tracks crisscrosses the park’s eastern hinterland, offering thrilling opportunities to observe a variety of savanna animals and birds. From zebras grazing in open plains to elusive leopards lounging in the shade, the game drives bring visitors closer to the park’s untamed essence.

Night Game Drives

For those seeking adventure after sundown, night drives led by ranger guides reveal a different side of Lake Mburo. With keen eyes and spotlight in hand, visitors might spot nocturnal creatures such as bushbabies, pottos, and if lucky, the elusive leopard prowling under the moonlit sky.

Salt Lick Walk

Embark on a guided walk around Rwonyo in Lake Mburo National Park, culminating in a visit to a natural salt lake. Here, from a timber observation platform, visitors can observe wildlife gathering to lick the mineral-rich deposits. It’s a serene experience, offering insights into the natural behaviors of the park’s inhabitants.

Forest Walk

On the western side of Lake Mburo lies a small but significant tract of forest known as Rubanga. Guided walks here, led by knowledgeable rangers, unveil a world teeming with forest bird species. The tranquil ambiance and the diverse avian population make this excursion a must for bird enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Horseback Safaris

Explore the undulating grassy ridges of Lake Mburo’s eastern reaches on horseback, an activity operated by Mihingo Lodge. This unique perspective allows riders to traverse landscapes where zebras graze peacefully and antelopes roam freely, offering a deeper connection with the park’s wilderness.

Mountain Biking

For the adventurous spirits, both Rwaboko Rock and Leopard Trail Rest Camp organize mountain biking trips into Lake Mburo National Park via Nshara Gate. These trails wind through diverse terrain, offering thrilling rides amid the park’s scenic beauty and wildlife sightings along the way.

View Points

South of Rwonyo, the lakeside track ascends to Kigarama Hills, where panoramic views of Lake Mburo unfold before visitors’ eyes. Another stunning viewpoint is Kazuma Lookout, accessible via a steep track from the Ruroko track near the Kazuma/Research track junction. From here, breathtaking vistas encompass not only Lake Mburo but also seven other lakes dotting the landscape.

Birding

Lake Mburo National Park is a haven for birdwatchers, with prime spots including the Acacia woodlands along the Acacia and Research tracks, where a variety of avian species thrive. The wooden shores of Lake Mburo, especially visible from the Rwonyo launch, offer ideal habitats for species like the African finfoot. The park’s northern fringe, characterized by papyrus wetlands, further enriches the birding experience with its unique ecosystem.

Best Time to Visit Lake Mburo National Park

The optimal times to visit Lake Mburo National Park are from June to August and December to February, coinciding with the dry seasons. During these periods, wildlife congregates around the lake, providing excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing. Additionally, migratory birds enhance the experience with their presence, making it a rewarding time for bird enthusiasts.

Getting to Lake Mburo National Park

By Road

Lake Mburo National Park is strategically located between Masaka and Mbarara, along the main southwest road connecting Kampala to Bwindi, Kabale, and the Rwandan border. The journey from Kampala spans approximately 228km and takes about 3.5 hours. Access is also possible from Kibale National Park via Ibanda and Rushere, as well as from Queen Elizabeth National Park through Ishaka and Mbarara. The park features three entry gates: Kanyanshara Gate, situated near the upscale Mihingo Lodge; Nshara Gate, accessed via a dirt road south of Akagate; and Sanga Gate, reachable from Sanga trading center.

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