Lake Mburo National Park, located in western Uganda along the Kampala-Mbarara highway, is the smallest of Uganda’s savannah parks, covering approximately 370 square kilometers. Despite its size, it is rich in biodiversity, offering a unique mix of savannah, acacia woodlands, wetlands, and lakes. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including zebras, impalas, elands, buffaloes, hippos, and over 350 bird species. Unlike other national parks, Lake Mburo allows activities such as horseback riding and cycling safaris, making it a unique destination for wildlife enthusiasts.

Activities in Lake Mburo National Park

1. Game Drives

The park offers morning and evening game drives, providing excellent opportunities to spot zebras, impalas, buffaloes, topis, and giraffes. The Ruroko and Zebra tracks are among the best routes for wildlife viewing.

2. Boat Safari on Lake Mburo

A boat cruise on Lake Mburo is a great way to explore aquatic wildlife. Visitors can see hippos, crocodiles, and various waterbirds such as African fish eagles, pied kingfishers, and African finfoots. The boat ride offers stunning views of the lake’s shoreline and surrounding vegetation.

3. Horseback Safaris

Lake Mburo is the only national park in Uganda that offers horseback safaris. This activity, operated by Mihingo Lodge, allows visitors to get close to wildlife in a peaceful and eco-friendly way without the noise of engines.

4. Walking Safaris

Guided nature walks provide an opportunity to explore the park on foot, allowing visitors to observe wildlife up close. The walks lead through savannah grasslands, forested areas, and around the lake. Morning walks are particularly rewarding for spotting hyenas returning to their dens.

5. Cycling Safaris

For adventure lovers, Lake Mburo offers cycling safaris, where visitors can ride through designated trails while spotting wildlife. The cycling trails pass through acacia woodlands, savannah plains, and rocky outcrops, offering a thrilling experience.

6. Bird Watching

With over 350 bird species, Lake Mburo is a paradise for birdwatchers. The best birding spots include the Rubanga Forest, the lake’s shoreline, and savannah plains, where species like the rare African finfoot, red-faced barbet, and white-winged warbler can be seen.

7. Community and Cultural Experiences

Visitors can interact with the local Banyankole communities, learning about their traditional cattle-keeping culture. Tours include visits to homesteads, milking demonstrations, and traditional storytelling.

Conclusion

Lake Mburo National Park is an excellent destination for a short but rewarding wildlife experience. With its diverse activities, including game drives, boat safaris, horseback riding, and cultural encounters, it offers a unique and unforgettable safari experience in Uganda.