Game Drives in Lake Mburo National Park

Game Drives in Lake Mburo National Park

Experience the Thrill of a Game Drive in Lake Mburo National Park

Lake Mburo National Park is one of Uganda’s top safari destinations, offering exceptional game drives where you can spot a variety of wildlife, including giraffes, zebras, elands, topis, and impalas. Despite being the smallest savannah park in Uganda, it boasts an impressive diversity of wildlife, with 69 mammal species and over 332 bird species. It is the only park in Uganda home to impalas and the only one in western Uganda where you can see zebras, giraffes, and elands.

Game drives in Lake Mburo National Park can be done at different times of the day—morning, mid-morning, afternoon, evening, and even at night—each offering a unique opportunity to see a wide range of animals and bird species. Its strategic location, just a short drive from Kampala or Entebbe, makes it one of the most accessible national parks in Uganda, perfect for a day trip or a longer safari.

Excursia Adventures offers tailored safari experiences to Lake Mburo, ranging from budget to luxury options. Whether you want a quick day safari or an extended wildlife adventure, we have a package that suits your needs.

What to Expect on a Game Drive in Lake Mburo National Park

Wildlife Viewing

Lake Mburo National Park is home to unique wildlife species. It is the only park in Uganda where you can find impalas and one of the few in western Uganda where you can see zebras, giraffes, and elands. Other animals include leopards, hyenas, hippos, and crocodiles (best spotted during a boat safari on Lake Mburo). The best time for game drives is during the early morning or late afternoon when animals are most active. Night game drives provide a chance to see nocturnal creatures such as bush babies, pottos, and occasionally leopards.

Bird Watching

For birding enthusiasts, Lake Mburo National Park is a paradise with over 332 recorded bird species. The park features rare species such as the papyrus gonolek, papyrus yellow warbler, white-winged warbler, and the elusive shoebill stork. Bird lovers visit the park year-round to catch a glimpse of these magnificent species.

Local Ankole Cattle Experience

Parts of Lake Mburo National Park are shared grazing areas with local herdsmen. This unique setting allows visitors to witness the traditional Ankole cattle, known for their distinctive long horns. You’ll get an opportunity to interact with local communities and learn about their culture and way of life.

Cultural Encounters

The communities surrounding Lake Mburo National Park offer a rich cultural experience. Engage with the locals through traditional dances, storytelling, and learning about their daily lives. These cultural encounters add depth to your safari adventure.

Best Time to Visit Lake Mburo National Park for Game Drives

The best time for game drives in Lake Mburo National Park is during the dry seasons from December to February and June to October. During these months, the roads leading to the park are more accessible, and wildlife viewing is at its best, as animals gather around water sources. However, the park remains open year-round, with lush greenery and abundant wildlife even in the wet seasons.

Game Drive Fees in Lake Mburo National Park

Here’s a breakdown of the costs for game drives in Lake Mburo National Park (as per Uganda Wildlife Authority rates):

Day Game Drive (7 AM – 6 PM):

• Foreign Non-Residents: $40 per person
• Foreign Residents: $30 per person
• East African Citizens: UGX 20,000 per adult / UGX 5,000 per child

Night Game Drive (After 6 PM):

• Foreign Non-Residents: $30 per person
• Foreign Residents: $30 per person
• East African Citizens: UGX 50,000 per person

How to Book a Safari Game Drive in Lake Mburo

You can book a safari game drive in advance or upon arrival. Advance bookings require entrance fee payments to the Uganda Wildlife Authority, which provides a wildlife card for entry. Excursia Adventures can assist you with pre-booking to ensure a hassle-free experience. Alternatively, you can pay at the park entrance and receive a receipt to proceed with your game drive.

How to Get to Lake Mburo National Park

By Road: Lake Mburo National Park is located between Masaka and Mbarara, along the main southwestern road connecting Kampala to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. The park is 228 km from Kampala and takes approximately 3-4 hours by road. Entry is through Kyanyanshara Gate (near Mihingo Lodge), Akagate Gate, or Sanga Gate (near Rwakobo Rock Lodge).

By Air: For a quicker option, you can take a chartered or scheduled flight from Entebbe International Airport or Kajjansi Airfield. Airlines such as Aero Link Uganda and Fly Uganda operate flights to the region. Advance booking is recommended, as flights operate based on passenger numbers (minimum of 4 travelers required).

Where to Stay in Lake Mburo National Park

Accommodation options in Lake Mburo National Park range from budget-friendly to luxurious lodges:

• Budget Options ($90-$100 per night per person): Rwonyo Rest Camp, UWA Bandas, Leopard Rest Camp, Mantana Tented Camp
• Mid-Range Options ($100-$200 per night per person): Rwakobo Rock Lodge, Mpogo Lodge, Mburo Safari Lodge, Arcadia Lodge
• Luxury Options ($200-$400 per night per person): Mihingo Safari Lodge, Emburara Lodge

Excursia Adventures can help you choose and book accommodation that suits your budget and preferences.

Why Book Your Game Drive with Excursia Adventures?

At Excursia Adventures, we prioritize safety, comfort, and exceptional experiences. Our team follows strict Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) in line with WHO guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable safari. We specialize in organizing tailor-made safaris in Uganda and Rwanda, including gorilla trekking, chimpanzee tracking, cultural tours, and city excursions.

Let us help you plan an unforgettable safari to Lake Mburo National Park. Contact us today to book your game drive and explore Uganda’s stunning wildlife!