Located in western Uganda, Lake Mburo National Park is one of the country's most accessible and compact wildlife parks, situated about 240 kilometers (4 hours) from Kampala, making it an ideal stop for short safaris or as part of a larger itinerary. Spanning approximately 370 square kilometers, it is Uganda's smallest savannah park but punches well above its weight in biodiversity and scenery.
Lake Mburo National Park is the only park in Uganda where visitors can see zebras and impalas alongside a rich variety of wildlife, including giraffes, hippos, crocodiles, and over 350 bird species.
The park is centred around Lake Mburo, one of 13 lakes in the region connected by a swampy system. Its rolling hills, open savannah, acacia woodlands, and wetlands create a beautiful and serene landscape, ideal for relaxation and wildlife exploration.
The park's proximity to Kampala and Entebbe makes it a popular choice for travellers seeking a short safari experience, with popular activities like walking safaris, horseback riding, and boat cruises.
Things to Do in Lake Mburo Np
Game Drives
Explore the park’s diverse wildlife during guided morning or evening game drives.
You’ll have a chance to spot zebras, elands, buffaloes, giraffes, warthogs, and more. The Kigambira Loop is a great route for spotting animals.
Walking Safaris
Lake Mburo is one of the few parks in Uganda where walking safaris are permitted. Led by armed rangers, these walks provide an intimate experience with nature, allowing you to observe animals up close while learning about the park’s ecosystem.
Boat Cruises on Lake Mburo
Take a boat ride on Lake Mburo to see hippos, crocodiles, and waterbirds such as African fish eagles, pied kingfishers, and the elusive African finfoot. The sunset cruises are especially scenic and memorable.
Bird Watching
With over 350 bird species, Lake Mburo is a haven for birders.
Look out for species like the grey-crowned crane, African jacana, papyrus gonolek, and saddle-billed stork. The Rubanga Forest is a particularly good spot for birding.
Related article: Top places to visit for birding safaris in Uganda
Horseback Riding Safaris
One of the park’s most unique offerings is horseback safaris, run by Mihingo Lodge. These allow you to get closer to zebras, antelopes, and other wildlife without the disturbance of a vehicle.
Cycling Safaris
For adventure lovers, cycling safaris are another unique way to explore the park’s trails while enjoying the landscape and spotting wildlife.
Night Game Drives
A guided night game drive offers the chance to see nocturnal animals like leopards, bush babies, and hyenas, along with the park’s diurnal species settling in for the night.
Fishing
Lake Mburo offers great fishing opportunities, with tilapia being the most common catch. Fishing permits can be arranged, and some lodges provide equipment.
Seasons & Best Time to Visit
Lake Mburo National Park has a warm tropical climate and can be visited year-round.
Dry Seasons (June to August & December to February):
The dry months are the best time for wildlife viewing as animals gather around water sources, and the grass is shorter, making them easier to spot. This is also the most popular time to visit due to the pleasant weather and minimal rainfall.
Wet Seasons (March to May & September to November):
Although there’s more rain during these months, the park remains accessible, and the scenery is lush and green. Bird watchers particularly enjoy the wet season as migratory birds arrive, and resident species are more active.
Why Visit in the Wet Season?
The wet season offers fewer crowds and vibrant landscapes, and the rain often comes in short bursts, leaving plenty of time for activities. Accommodation rates might also be slightly lower.
How to Get There
Lake Mburo National Park is conveniently located, making it one of the easiest parks to access in Uganda.
By Road
- From Kampala or Entebbe, it’s a 4-hour drive (240 km) via the Masaka-Mbarara highway. The park entrance is located 13 km from the main road at Sanga Gate or Nshara Gate.
- If you’re coming from Queen Elizabeth National Park, it’s about a 3-hour drive (240 km), making it an ideal stopover on a western Uganda safari circuit.
By Air
- Mbarara Airstrip is the nearest airfield, less than 1 hour away by road. Domestic charter flights can be arranged from Entebbe.
Places to Stay
Accommodation in and around Lake Mburo National Park ranges from luxury lodges to budget campsites, catering to all travelers.
Here are some options
- Mihingo Lodge
A luxury lodge perched on a hill overlooking the park. It offers a stunning infinity pool, horseback safaris, and excellent views of the surrounding savannah. - Rwakobo Rock Lodge
A midrange eco-lodge with comfortable cottages and a beautiful setting near the park’s Nshara Gate. - Arcadia Cottages Mburo
A budget-friendly option with cozy cottages located near Lake Mburo, offering scenic views and easy access to park activities. - Eagles Nest Lodge
A budget-friendly lodge situated on a hilltop, offering panoramic views of the park.
For camping enthusiasts, the park also has campsites such as the Rwonyo Rest Camp, managed by the Uganda Wildlife Authority.
Nearby Attractions
Igongo Cultural Centre (32 km, ~30 minutes)
Located near Mbarara, this cultural center showcases the heritage of western Uganda’s tribes, especially the Banyankole. Visitors can tour the museum, sample traditional cuisine, and learn about the region’s history.
Queen Elizabeth National Park (240 km, ~3 hours)
One of Uganda’s most famous parks, known for its tree-climbing lions, boat cruises on the Kazinga Channel, and extensive wildlife. A visit to Queen Elizabeth National Park can be seamlessly combined with Lake Mburo for a longer safari experience.
Ankole Cattle Farms (20-40 km, ~30-40 minutes)
Take a guided visit to a nearby farm to learn about the Ankole Longhorn cattle, famous for their majestic horns and cultural significance to the Banyankole people.
These nearby attractions make Lake Mburo an excellent base or stopover for exploring western Uganda.
Closing Thoughts
Lake Mburo National Park is a gem of diversity and convenience, offering a unique mix of wildlife, activities, and scenery within easy reach of Uganda’s capital.
Whether you’re watching zebras graze on the savannah, gliding across Lake Mburo on a boat, or enjoying a peaceful walking safari, the park’s charm lies in its ability to deliver big safari experiences on a smaller, more intimate scale.
With its strategic location and a wide range of activities, Lake Mburo is perfect for anyone seeking a shorter safari or a relaxing getaway in the wild.
Add it to your itinerary for a blend of adventure, relaxation, and a true taste of Uganda’s natural beauty.