Lake Mburo National Park

Lake Mburo National Park found in the western region covering an estimated 370 square kilometers making it one of the smallest national parks in Uganda. Despite its small size you will find over 68 species of mammals and 350 bird species. The greater part of the park  covered with acacia woodland surrounded by riverine woodland which is very thick.

Activities done at the park

Night game drives

Lake Mburo offers the best when it comes to watching wildlife at night. You will encounter the illusive leopard, white tailed mongoose, hyenas, porcupines, bush babies in their peaceful resting state as well as bats. The night game drive starts immediately after dinner.

Horseback riding

Lake Mburo national park provides for game viewing on back of a horse. The exciting yet exhilarating activity  performed under the guidance of trained park rangers. It’s a 3-hour activity exploring all the spectacular scenic views of the savannah.

Community tours

Explore the neighboring villages of the park to learn more about their traditions, cultures that have stood the test of time. You will be entertained by the locals as you engage in productive community activities. The community tours are aimed at giving back to the people who have helped in the prosperity of the game park. Some of the community groups are; Igongo cultural Institute and Ankole cultural community group.

Boat cruise

The boat cruise on lake Mburo offers visitors the opportunity to watch aquatic animals such as crocodiles, hippos and a number of aquatic birds endemic to the area like the kingfisher, herons, African fin foot among others.

Birding

The park is home to more than 350 bird species including endemic species, migratory, water birds, savannah birds and forest birds which you can find in the areas of Rubanga and Warukiri forest. Some of the birds include; Nubian wood pecker, rare shoebill, harrier hawk, saddle bill storks, double toothed barbet, crested crane to mention a few.

Sport fishing

Lake Mburo has over thirteen lakes in and around the park perfect for fishing. It’s a joyous activity when you actually catch something and take it home although visitors are required to get permits to fish. Nevertheless, expect catch some tilapia, lungfish, mudfish, catfish, tiger fish to mention but a few.

Guided nature walks/hikes

You can also take guided walks to the Kazuma hill for a spectacular aerial view of the park and its lakes as well forests. Follow well preserved trails to learn more about the vast tree and vegetation cover, explore the salt lick area where you will discover numerous animals licking salt residues and venture through woodlands while watching birds and animals.

Best time to visit the park

Visitors to the park are welcome throughout the year although the best time would be in the months of June to September and December to February. This is because these are the dry months and vegetation is thin making it possible for you to view the game better. Also the park’s animals tend to concentrate around the waters during the dry season to cool off thus you have the opportunity to view most of them at the same time.

How to get to the park

You can access Lake Mburo national park by road which is 4-5-hour drive from Kampala to Masaka-Mbarara highway in the comfort of a 4WD safari vehicle or by air where you can charter a flight from Kajjansi airfield to Mbarara airstrip from where you can take a short ride to Lake Mburo national park.