Although Lake Mburo National Park is the smallest of the Ugandan national parks, it has nothing to envy of the bigger parks. In this park, stunning landscapes will meet you at every turn. Rolling hills, grassy plains, acacia woodlands, seasonal wetlands, exceptional wildlife – all in one place. Lake Mburo is a safe option for walking safaris in Uganda. Follow your guide’s instructions and enjoy natural attractions and cultural experiences with the local Bahima people.
A Water Wonderland in Uganda’s Heart
The park is named after Lake Mburo, which is one of the five lakes found within the park’s limits. It offers opportunities for boat trips and water activities, which are rare in many other Ugandan parks.
Exploring Lake Mburo on a boat
Meet the wildlife from a different angle: on the water! You’ll probably see hippos on the shore of the lake and be amazed by the numerous species of birds that you can see there!
On land you can spot the impala, a kind of antelope endemic to the park. Not only is it famous for its curved horns (the males at least), but also for its nickname: since impalas are said to be quite easy to hunt, they’re also called “McDonald’s in the bush”.
The calm waters of the lake are perfect for a serene and peaceful boating experience. Now we are sure you won’t leave Lake Mburo without going on a boat safari.
Exploring Lake Mburo at night
One of the park’s highlights are the night game drives. After the sun has set, it’s time to switch on your explorer mode. In a 4×4 safari jeep with extremely good lights you’ll head out into the darkness of the night. Keep your eyes open for nocturnal animals like hyenas, genets and porcupines and your fingers crossed to see some predators like leopards or hyenas on the hunt. A truly thrilling activity with 100% goose bump potential.
Activities in Lake Mburo National Park
- Boat safaris on the lake
- Guided nature walks
- Horse-riding safaris
- Mountainbike safaris
- Night game drives
- Stargazing
- Bird watching
How to get there
Lake Mburo National Park is relatively easy to access by road. It’s approximately a 3.5 to 4-hour drive from Kampala, the capital city of Uganda.
Climate
The park experiences a tropical savannah climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. There are two rainy periods from March to May and October to November and a dry period from December to February and June to August.
Best time to visit Lake Mburo National Park
The best time to view wildlife is in the dry season, from June until August, and between December and February, when animals gather around water sources.
However, if you want to see the park flourish (literally), you should go there during the rain seasons from March to May and from October to November. And no worries: you can still experience a safari during these months and the animals will also be there – including some babies 😉
Information and facts
No matter if on a horse or a mountainbike, in a safari jeep or in a boat, on foot or at night: you can discover the beautiful flora and fauna of Lake Mburo National Park whichever way you want. The diverse landscape and rich ecosystem have countless wow-moments for you in store.
Most common animals
- Giraffe
- Elephant
- Buffalo
- Rhino
- Zebra
- Impala
- Eland
- Topis
- Burchell’s zebra
- Hippos
- Warthog
- Crocodile
- Over 350 species of birds
Facts about Lake Mburo National Park
- 260 square kilometres (100 square miles)
- Established in 1983
- Various aquatic wildlife
- Easy to access by road – approximately a 3.5 to 4-hour drive from Kampala
- Wildlife Corridor: Lake Mburo serves as an important wildlife corridor, allowing for the movement of animals between other protected areas in Uganda
