Located along the Kampala-Masaka highway in the western region of Uganda, lies the stunning Lake Mburo National Park, which is undoubtedly a true gem among Uganda’s national parks. The park is spread over an area of approximately 370 square kilometers and is the smallest savannah national park in Uganda, but it’s home to an incredibly diverse range of landscapes that are sure to leave any nature lover in awe. From dry hillsides, rocky outcrops, bushy thickets, open and wooded savannas, and forested areas to swamps, Lake Mburo National Park never ceases to amaze its visitors.
What makes Lake Mburo National Park so unique is the fact that it’s underlain by ancient Precambrian metamorphic rocks that date back more than 500 million years. This diverse ecosystem provides a sanctuary for numerous flora and fauna, making it a peaceful retreat away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
The park is surrounded by 13 other lakes, forming part of a 50 km-long wetland system connected by a swamp, and five of these lakes are within the park’s boundaries. The savanna was once covered by open grasslands, but now it supports a healthy population of buffalos, warthogs, bushpigs, and hippos. Interestingly, there is much woodland in Lake Mburo National Park since there are no elephants to control the vegetation.
The western part of the park is characterized by savanna interspersed with rocky ridges and forested gorges, while patches of papyrus swamp and narrow bands of lush riparian woodland line many of the lakes. All these features make Lake Mburo National Park a must-visit destination for anyone seeking to explore the beauty of Uganda’s national parks.
Tourist Attractions in Lake Mburo National Park
Lake Mburo National Park is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, as it offers an incredibly diverse range of animals. With over 350 species of birds, it is an ideal destination for bird watchers, especially those interested in seeing acacia-related birds. The Rwonyo area of the park is particularly famous for its bird population, which includes the delightful mosque swallow, the stately blackbellied bustard, the quirky bare-faced go-away bird, and the striking Ruppell’s starling.
In addition to the birds, the park is also home to a large number of mammals, including zebras, elands, buffalos, impalas, and leopards. One of the unique features of Lake Mburo National Park is the presence of the large eland antelope, which is the largest antelope in the world. The park is also one of the few places in Uganda where you can spot the agile klipspringer and the elusive, nocturnal bush pig.
The park’s primary attraction is Lake Mburo itself, which is part of a chain of five lakes that are connected by swamps and fed by the Rwizi River. The lakes are home to a variety of waterbirds, including the African finfoot, the African fish eagle, and the majestic kingfisher. Visitors can also spot hippos and crocodiles sunbathing on the banks of the lake.
Lake Mburo National Park is a true gem of Uganda’s wildlife, and it is a must-visit destination for anyone who wants to experience the beauty and diversity of Africa’s fauna.
Tourist Activities in Lake Mburo National Park
Game drives
The national park offers an exceptional opportunity to explore the wild side of nature with its exciting game drives that will leave you in awe of the natural beauty of the park. These game drives can be scheduled either in the early morning or as evening drives, giving you the flexibility to plan your day accordingly.
The eastern area of the park is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts as it boasts a network of game tracks where you can spot a diverse range of animals and birds. The vast meadows and grasslands are home to a wide variety of herbivores such as zebras, antelopes, and giraffes. You can also spot predators like lions, cheetahs, and hyenas lurking around in search of their prey.
For those who are intrigued by the nocturnal creatures, the night game drives offer exclusive opportunities to see them in action. As the sun sets, the predators come out to hunt, and you can spot them in their natural habitat. You might be lucky enough to see elusive leopards, bush babies, and nightjars that are otherwise difficult to spot during the day.
So, pack your bags and let Kyamba Safaris lead you to the national park to embark on a thrilling adventure and explore the untamed wilderness of nature.
Boat Trips
Embarking on a boat trip on Lake Mburo is truly a remarkable experience that offers an unparalleled opportunity for photography enthusiasts, bird watchers, and game viewers to get up close and personal with the wildlife. The lake is home to a vast array of mesmerizing creatures, including crocodiles, buffaloes, and an abundance of water birds, making it a paradise for nature lovers. As you glide through the tranquil waters of the lake, be prepared to be awed by the stunning scenery and the diverse wildlife that thrives here. Whether you’re an avid photographer or simply seeking a peaceful escape in nature, a boat trip on Lake Mburo is an experience you won’t soon forget.
Horseback Safaris
If you are a wildlife viewer and great animal lover who enjoys adventure, then horseback safaris are a perfect way to explore the wildlife. It is a unique experience that allows you to approach the animals in their natural habitat quietly and closely without disturbing them.
Mihingo Lodge offers horseback safaris that are suitable for both beginners and experienced riders. You will get to ride through the savannah and forests of Uganda, with stunning views of the surrounding hills and valleys. The trained guides will take you on a journey through the wilderness, pointing out various animals such as zebras, giraffes, buffalos, and antelopes.
The horses used for these safaris are well-trained and calm, making them easy to handle. You will receive a safety briefing before embarking on the safari, and the guides will be with you throughout the journey to ensure your safety.
Nature Walks
The national park boasts a range of nature trails that allow visitors to immerse themselves in the beauty of the natural surroundings. For those who are interested in learning more about the park’s flora and fauna, guided walks provide deep insights. These walks provide an intimate and informative experience, allowing visitors to gain a deeper understanding of the park’s ecosystems and the animals that call it home.
One of the most popular trails in the park leads to the salt lick area, where visitors can see animals as they lick the salty soil. This area is particularly popular with wildlife enthusiasts, as it offers a unique opportunity to view animals up close in their natural habitat. To ensure that visitors do not disturb the animals, a wooden platform observation point has been constructed, providing a safe and unobtrusive vantage point from which to observe the wildlife.
Bird Watching
The national park in question is home to a diverse range of habitats, each providing shelter to a multitude of avian species. There are nearly 350 different bird species that call this park their home. Among these are some of the rarest and most endangered species in the world, such as the African finfoot, the papyrus yellow warbler, and the brown-chested wattled plover.
If you’re interested in birdwatching, certain areas of the park are particularly rich in birdlife. For example, the swamps located at Warukiri, as well as the roadsides between Rwonyo camp and the jetty, are both excellent locations for spotting a wide variety of bird species. Keep your eyes peeled and you might just spot some truly incredible birds that you won’t find anywhere else in the world!
Sport Fishing
Lake Mburo National Park is a popular destination for those who enjoy angling. The park offers several designated spots where visitors can participate in sport fishing and catch a variety of fish species, including Tilapia, the most common fish in the lake. It’s important to note that visitors are encouraged to bring their own fishing equipment, as rentals are not available within the park. Additionally, it’s important to adhere to the park’s fishing regulations to ensure the safety of both visitors and wildlife. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or simply looking to try your hand at fishing, Lake Mburo National Park offers a unique and exciting opportunity to experience the thrill of the catch amidst a beautiful natural setting.
Cultural Encounters
If you’re looking for a unique cultural experience, consider visiting the Bahima community. This community is known for its traditional way of life, which includes cattle keeping, yogurt-making, and the famous long-horned Ankole cattle. Visitors can participate in and learn about all of these activities, gaining insight into the Bahima way of life. Additionally, the community is known for its warm hospitality, so you can expect to feel right at home during your visit.
Getting There
By Road
Lake Mburo National Park is situated about 240 kilometers west of Kampala, Uganda’s capital, and the journey by road approximately takes about 3 to 4 hours. The most common route is via the Masaka-Mbarara highway with a turn at Lyantonde. The park has two gates: the eastern Nshara Gate and the southern Sanga Gate, both accessible via a good network of tarmacked roads.
By Air
For a faster and more scenic route, chartered flights can be arranged from Entebbe International Airport or Kajjansi Airfield to the airstrip near the park.
Tourist Activities
Trip Cost Per Person: Starting from US$900
Located along the Kampala-Masaka highway in the western region of Uganda, lies the stunning Lake Mburo National Park, which is undoubtedly a true gem among Uganda's national parks. The park is spread over an area of approximately 370 square kilometers and is the smallest savannah national park in Uganda, but it's home to an incredibly diverse range of landscapes that are sure to leave any nature lover in awe. From dry hillsides, rocky outcrops, bushy thickets, open and wooded savannas, and forested areas to swamps, Lake Mburo National Park never ceases to amaze its visitors.
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