Lake Mburo National Park

Nestled in the rolling plains of western Uganda, Lake Mburo National Park is one of the country’s most accessible and scenic protected areas. Spanning approximately 370 square kilometers, it is the smallest of Uganda’s savannah national parks, yet it boasts a remarkable variety of wildlife, landscapes, and activities. Just a few hours’ drive from Kampala, Lake Mburo offers a perfect introduction to Uganda’s wilderness, making it an ideal stopover for travelers heading to or from the western tourism circuit that includes Bwindi Impenetrable and Queen Elizabeth National Parks.

A Diverse Landscape

Lake Mburo National Park is characterized by a unique mix of ecosystems, including open savannah, acacia woodland, swamps, and five lakes, the largest of which is Lake Mburo itself. The park’s varied habitats create a home for a wide range of plant and animal life, providing visitors with diverse experiences in a compact area. The picturesque landscape is dotted with rolling hills, rocky outcrops, and grassy valleys, making it a visual delight for nature lovers and photographers alike.

Unlike the more arid savannah parks to the north, Lake Mburo has a refreshing lushness, especially around its wetland areas. The lakes and swamps are essential to the park’s ecology, offering crucial water sources for wildlife and attracting a multitude of aquatic and bird species.

Wildlife and Birdlife

Although Lake Mburo National Park does not have elephants or lions, this absence allows for safer nature walks and bike safaris, making the experience more immersive and unique. The park is home to a wide array of wildlife, including buffaloes, zebras, impalas, elands, oribis, topis, reedbucks, and warthogs. It is the only national park in Uganda where you can find impalas and one of only two parks with zebras.

In recent years, giraffes were reintroduced into the park, adding to its growing list of attractions. Leopards are also present, though sightings are less frequent due to their elusive nature. Crocodiles and hippos thrive in Lake Mburo and its surrounding waters.

For birdwatchers, Lake Mburo is a paradise. Over 350 species of birds have been recorded here, including the rare African finfoot, papyrus gonolek, saddle-billed stork, and white-winged warbler. The wetland and forested areas are especially rich in avian diversity, making it a prime destination for birding tours.

Activities and Attractions

Lake Mburo National Park offers a range of activities that are not always available in other Ugandan parks, thanks to its relatively predator-free environment. Game drives through the savannah and woodland tracks provide opportunities to view animals in their natural habitats. Night game drives can be arranged to spot nocturnal creatures such as bush babies, porcupines, and occasionally leopards.

Walking safaris are a highlight here, offering a closer look at the park’s flora and fauna under the guidance of armed rangers. Nature walks often lead to the salt lick area, where animals gather to consume natural minerals from the soil.

Boat rides on Lake Mburo are another popular activity. These excursions bring visitors close to hippos, crocodiles, and various water birds, including African fish eagles. The tranquil setting and cool breeze make the boat ride a relaxing yet rewarding experience.

For the more adventurous, horseback safaris are available at the luxury Mihingo Lodge, allowing riders to explore the park and approach wildlife silently and without the noise of engines. Cycling is another exciting way to experience the park, especially around the Rwonyo area, where wildlife sightings are common.

Community and Conservation

Lake Mburo National Park is located in a region inhabited by the Banyankole people, particularly the Bahima pastoralists. Visitors can engage in cultural experiences, such as visiting local homesteads, learning about traditional Ankole cattle, and participating in local music and dance performances. These community encounters provide insights into the lives of people who live alongside wildlife and help promote community-based conservation efforts.

Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) and various stakeholders have worked together to promote sustainable tourism and conservation in the area. Revenue-sharing initiatives and community tourism projects help ensure that the benefits of tourism reach the local people and support the park’s protection.

Accessibility and Accommodation

Lake Mburo National Park is easily accessible from Kampala via the Masaka-Mbarara highway, with a travel time of about 3.5 to 4 hours. This makes it an excellent destination for short safaris or as a break between longer journeys. The park has a range of accommodation options, from luxury lodges like Mihingo Lodge and Mantana Tented Camp to mid-range and budget facilities like Rwakobo Rock and Eagle’s Nest.