Things to do in Lake Mburo National Park
Things to do in Lake Mburo National Park ? Lake Mburo National Park is the smallest of the ten national parks in Uganda, with an elevation ranging from 1,220 to 1,828 meters above sea level. This national park is situated in the western region of Uganda, positioned between Masaka and Mbarara towns, with an area of around 370 square kilometers.
Lake Mburo National Park was designated as a game reserve in 1983 and subsequently constituted as a national park in the same year. It is also recognized as being managed by the Uganda Wildlife Authority, which is responsible for overseeing and safeguarding all national parks in the country. Lake Mburo National Park is aesthetically pleasing due to its natural features, characterized by acacia savannah vegetation, rocky outcrops, dense thickets, and diverse plant species. This national park is situated in a valley between the Rwenzori Mountains and Lake Victoria, including five lakes bordered by strips of riparian woods.
Lake Mburo National Park derives its name from “Lake Mburo.” It is characterized by prolonged rainfall from February to June, followed by shorter rains from September to December, resulting in an average annual precipitation of 800mm. Moreover, several attractions draw significant numbers of travelers globally, hence fostering the development of the country’s tourism industry. The following attractions are included:
Boat Cruise
An afternoon boat excursion on the renowned Lake Mburo is among the most coveted pastimes. The trip offers an excellent opportunity to observe hippos and crocodiles. The diversity of water bird species frequently exceeds the capacity of even the most astute birdwatcher to identify them all. The captivating wildlife interactions, along with the breathtaking surroundings and expansive landscape vistas, will undoubtedly leave a profound sense of authentic African beauty.
Game Drive
The optimal method to thoroughly investigate Lake Mburo National Park is by vehicular travel. A game drive in Lake Mburo National Park provides an optimal opportunity to observe impalas and zebras. These two species characterize Lake Mburo, as it is the exclusive location in Uganda to observe the stately impala and the only readily accessible site to view Burchell’s zebra, with Kidepo being difficult to access. Game drives in this park follow various routes, with the optimal selection contingent upon the season. In the dry season, animals typically gather near swamps and lakes, providing an exceptional photographic opportunity featuring numerous wild African animals against the backdrop of shimmering lakes.
Nature walks
Guided nature hikes around Lake Mburo represent some of the most captivating and distinctive activities available in Uganda’s parks. Being accompanied by an armed park ranger grants you the privilege to traverse any area within the park. This provides guests with the exceptional opportunity to explore and appreciate the marvels of the African wilderness unencumbered by a car.
Horse Back Safaris
Horseback safaris are now offered by Mihingo Lodge. Equestrian safaris offer an exhilarating opportunity to observe animals in and around Lake Mburo National Park. Absence of motor noise and emissions allows one to immerse in nature and frequently observe more elusive wildlife. Experiencing wildlife from horseback is unique: zebras approach to investigate the unfamiliar, stripe-less relative. The often reticent eland observed the horses with curiosity, maintaining a safe distance without fleeing.
Ankole Cultural Center
The Banyakole village adjacent to Lake Mburo National Park has established the ‘Ankole Cultural Centre’ to showcase the traditions and history of their kingdom. The Cultural Centre is located adjacent to the park near the Sanga entrance. A visit to the Centre will familiarize you with the region’s traditional culture and local lifestyle. Visitors can explore traditional village dwellings, where Ankole interpreters will elucidate the history and culture of their community. Unique Ankole artisanal goods are available for purchase as mementos.
Engage with Indigenous People
During your stay to Lake Mburo National Park, you may engage with and assist the local community surrounding the lodge. We additionally provide community excursions to the nearby settlements surrounding the lodge and Lake Mburo National Park. This provides a compelling perspective on their daily life activities. You can observe their agricultural practices, including crop cultivation and the grazing of their long-horned cattle. One of the attractions is the milking of the longhorn cattle.
When is the best to visit Lake Mburo National Park
Things to do in Lake Mburo National Park , The park is accessible year-round, but the optimal visiting period is during the dry season, specifically from June to September and December to February, when rainfall is minimal, ensuring that game drives and hiking trails remain dry and navigable. In the dry season, the park’s foliage will be sparse, facilitating excellent visibility of many animals. Additionally, many species will congregate around water sources to hydrate, providing opportunities to observe diverse wildlife and get stunning photographs.
Lake Mburo National Park is accessible throughout the low/rainy season from March to May and October to November, which is optimal for avian observation, allowing for the viewing of vibrant and migrating bird species.
Directions to Lake Mburo National Park
The park is situated in the western region of Uganda and is accessible via both road and air transportation. Traveling by road entails driving from Kampala through the Masaka-Mbarara route to the park headquarters, a journey that requires approximately 3 to 4 hours in a safari vehicle. When utilizing air transport, you will reserve a charter or scheduled domestic aircraft with Aerolink Uganda from Entebbe International Airport to Mbarara Airstrip, followed by a road transfer to the park headquarters.
Accommodations in Lake Mburo National Park
Lake Mburo National Park offers a range of lodging options for your safari experience. The accommodations encompass budget, midrange, and luxury options, including Kigambira Safari Lodge, Mihingo Lodge, Arcadia Cottages Lake Mburo, Mburo Safari Lodge, Rwakobo Rock, Mpongo Safari Lodge, Mantana Tented Camp, Leopard Rest Camp, Mburo Eagles Nest, Hyena Hill Lodge, Kigarama Wilderness Lodge, and Rwonyo Rest Camp, among others.