Small but Wildly Scenic Safari Gem
Lake Mburo National Park may be the smallest of Uganda’s savannah parks, but it offers a rich and unique wildlife experience. Its rolling hills, open grasslands, acacia woodlands, and five lakes create a peaceful landscape that’s ideal for a shorter safari or a relaxing stop between Kampala and western Uganda’s larger parks.
What Makes It Special
Lake Mburo stands out for its beautiful scenery and calm atmosphere. It’s the closest national park to Kampala, making it easy to reach, yet it feels remote and natural. The park is one of the few places in Uganda where you can see zebras, eland, and impala, and it’s the only one where horseback safaris are possible.
The mix of open plains, lakes, and forested hills also makes Lake Mburo one of the most photogenic parks in Uganda.
Wildlife and Nature
The park is home to 68 mammal species, including zebras, impalas, elands, buffaloes, hippos, warthogs, and leopards. Because there are no elephants, the landscape stays open and easy to explore on foot or horseback.
Bird enthusiasts can look out for more than 300 bird species, including African fish eagles, kingfishers, and papyrus gonoleks. The five lakes within the park attract hippos and crocodiles, adding to the wildlife diversity.
Top Things to Do
- Game Drives - Morning or evening drives through the savannah to spot zebras, antelopes, and other grazers.
- Boat Ride on Lake Mburo - A calm cruise where you can see hippos, crocodiles, and water birds.
- Horseback Safaris - A unique way to get close to animals quietly without the noise of a vehicle.
- Nature Walks - Guided walks to explore trails and learn about the smaller details of the ecosystem.
- Cycling and Birding - Great for active travelers who want a different kind of safari experience.
When to Visit
Lake Mburo can be visited all year, but the dry seasons (June–September and December–February) make wildlife easier to spot as animals gather near water sources. During the rainy months, the park turns green and beautiful with excellent birding opportunities.
Getting There
The park is located about 240 kilometers from Kampala, roughly a 3 to 4-hour drive along the Kampala–Mbarara highway. It’s often included as a convenient stopover en route to Queen Elizabeth, Bwindi, or Lake Bunyonyi.
Where to Stay
There are lodges and tented camps both inside and around the park, catering to different budgets. Most have great views of the park’s hills or the lake, and some offer night drives, walking safaris, or horseback experiences right from your doorstep.
Travel Tips
- Ideal for a short safari or a weekend getaway from Kampala.
- Early morning and late afternoon are best for wildlife activity.
- Bring binoculars and a camera - the park’s mix of landscapes makes for great photography.
- Pack light clothes for warm days and a jacket for cooler nights.
Why Visit
Lake Mburo National Park is small but full of charm - quiet, scenic, and perfect for close-up encounters with Uganda’s plains wildlife. Its easy access, peaceful atmosphere, and variety of activities make it a great choice for travelers who want to enjoy the wild without the crowds.