Lake Mburo National Park

Nestled between Masaka and Mbarara districts, Lake Mburo National Park stands out not only as Uganda’s smallest national park but also as the closest to Kampala. Spanning 260 sq. km, this park is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, offering a diverse range of activities in a picturesque setting.

Wildlife Wonders in Lake Mburo National Park

1. Mammals: Encounter a rich variety of wildlife, including giraffes, impalas, buffaloes, elands, waterbucks, antelopes, zebras, oribis, topis, and warthogs. Notably, Lake Mburo is the exclusive home to impalas in Uganda.
2. Birdlife: Revel in a birder’s paradise with over 315 recorded bird species, including acacia-related birds, water birds, woodland birds, savanna birds, and migratory species from November to April. Highlights include the rare Shoebill stork, African finfoot, and Pied Kingfisher.
3. Flora: Explore diverse habitats, including acacia savanna, woodland, swamps, and grasslands, complemented by the presence of Lake Mburo and its five lakes.

Unique Safari Activities in Lake Mburo National Park

1. Safari Walks: Lake Mburo is the only national park in Uganda that offers safari walks. Embark on off-the-beaten-path experiences, where every 100 meters unveils a stunning vista. Guided walks to the salt lick and around Rubanga forest provide memorable encounters with wildlife.
2. Game Drives: Although not as popular as safari walks, game drives reveal the beauty of Lake Mburo. Explore Impala and Zebra trails, witnessing large herds during the wet season. Enjoy diverse landscapes, including open savannas, woodlands, and rocky hills.
3. Boat Cruise on Lake Mburo: Take a tranquil boat ride on Lake Mburo for abundant views of hippos, crocodiles, buffalo, waterbucks, and bushbucks. Marvel at bird species like the African fish eagle, marabou stork, and Pied Kingfisher.
4. Birding Safaris: Delight in birdwatching with over 315 species. Explore Rwonyo Camp for unique sightings like mosque swallows, black-bellied bustards, and Ruppell’s long-tailed starlings. Papyrus shores host rare species like the papyrus gonolek and white-winged warblers.
5. Quad Biking: Experience the thrill of quad biking with All Terrain Adventures. While some conservation concerns may arise, the activity offers a unique and safe way to explore the park’s landscapes.
6. Horseback Tours: Mihingo Lodge provides equestrian safaris, allowing for a quieter and more immersive wildlife experience. Tailor the horseback safari to your expertise and preferences.

Accommodations in Lake Mburo National Park

Choose from a range of accommodations, including:

• Mihingo Lodge
• Mburo Eagle’s Nest Lodge
• Hyena Hill Lodge
• Kigambira Safari Lodge
• Mburo Safari Lodge
• Rwakobo Rock
• Arcadia Lodge – Lake Mburo
• Sky Blue Motel – Lyantonde
• Igongo Cultural Center – Mbarara

Getting to Lake Mburo National Park

• By Road: Accessible via two roads from Masaka and Mbarara, a 4×4 vehicle is recommended. The journey takes approximately 4 to 5 hours. Charter special hires or use boda-bodas for local transportation.
• By Air: Arrange chartered flights from Entebbe International Airport or Kajjansi Airstrip to Mbarara town. Aviation firms like Aero Link Uganda and Bar Aviation offer direct flights in about 45 minutes.

Best Time to Visit Lake Mburo National Park

• Dry Seasons (June to August, December to January): Ideal for general wildlife viewing.
• Rainy Seasons (March to May, September to November): Still a fantastic time to explore, with November to April being excellent for birding.

Embark on a captivating journey to Lake Mburo National Park, where diverse wildlife, stunning landscapes, and unique safari experiences await. Steadfast Safaris promises an unforgettable adventure into the heart of Uganda’s natural wonders.