Lake Mburo National Park

Experience Lake Mburo National Park

Discover Uganda’s Truly Compact Natural Gem

Lake Mburo National Park is located in southwestern Uganda and is the smallest savannah park in the country, earning it the nickname “compact gem of Uganda”. With an area of approximately 260 -370 sq kms, this national park offers visitors an opportunity to experience the beauty of a unique mix of savannah, forest, and wetland ecosystems. About 20% of the park’s surface is covered by wetlands, forming a part of the 50 km-long wetland systems, connected by swamps and lakes across the five borders. 

Originally, this national park was gazetted in 1933 as a controlled hunting area and upgraded to a game reserve in 1963. During the Obote regime in Uganda, this destination was acknowledged as a national park in 1983. Currently, this region is a popular spot for naturists and wildlife lovers visiting this country. 

This Uganda safari destination stands out for its serene atmosphere, beautiful landscapes, and diverse wildlife. The park is centred around Lake Mburo, a large freshwater lake, and is home to a variety of animals, including zebras, impalas, buffaloes, and various bird species.

The park’s accessibility, close to Kampala, makes it an excellent destination for those looking to explore Uganda’s wildlife in a less crowded setting. Additionally, the park offers a unique opportunity to explore on foot, as it is one of the few parks in Uganda that allow walking safaris. 

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Key Highlights

Explore the majestic rainforests, hiking trails, and mountainous regions of Uganda

Experience

Discover the untamed beauty of the wetlands, the savannah grasslands and the shrublands of Lake Mburo.

  • Eco-tourism Activities
  • Boat Safaris
  • Wildlife Viewing
  • Birdwatching Activities
  • Photography Tours
  • Night Game Drives

Wildlife

The diverse landscapes of Lake Mburo National Park shelter a wide range of wildlife, both indigenous and migratory.

  • Large Herbivores Sightings
  • Predator Sightings
  • Small Mammal Sightings
  • Primate Spotting
  • Aquatic Animals
  • About 350 Bird Species

Activities

Lake Mburo National Park includes popular adventures and unique safari activities for travellers visiting Uganda.

  • Boat Cruises
  • Guided walking Safaris
  • Horseback Riding Safaris
  • Cycling Tours
  • Birdwatching
  • Cultural Experiences
Your Next Vacation Starts Here

Unleash the untamed wilderness with a guided and tailor-made Uganda Safari tour

What is the Best Time to Visit?

Ideal seasons ensure better travel and wildlife experiences

The Best Time to Visit Lake Mburo National Park is during the dry season, from June to September and December to February. During this time, the park’s trails are more accessible, and animals tend to gather around the lake, making them easier to spot. The weather is also more comfortable for outdoor activities like walking safaris and boat rides.

The wet season, from March to May and October to November, brings lush greenery to the park, which is great for birdwatching as many migratory birds visit the area. However, rain can make some of the trails slippery and less ideal for walking safaris.

Rich Biodiversity and Wildlife

Home to diverse species, thriving ecosystems, and unique wildlife habitats

Lake Mburo National Park is a compact gem, sheltering about 68 mammal species and is home to two of the Big Five animals (buffalo and leopard). 

Zebra and Buffalo can be spotted in large herds, grazing peacefully across acres. Other herbivores, including Hyrax, Pangolin, Warthog, Civet, Oribi, Sitatunga, Impala, Eland and other antelopes are spotted in this region. In many areas, antelopes such as Klipspringers are also found in the protected steep, rocky outcrops and thickets within this small park. 

Predators such as leopards, spotted hyenas, side-striped jackals, genets, civet cats, and white-tailed mongooses are found on land. Crocodiles are found in Lake Mburo and in surrounding water bodies. 

Over 26 species of lakeshore and papyrus swamp birds are recorded in Lake Mburo National Park. Some of them include Fish Eagle, Pied Kingfisher, African Infoot, Great white egret and Night heron can be spotted. Birds of the Open Water Park include Pink-backed pelican, Darter, White pelican, Yellow-billed duck, Long-tailed cormorant, White-winged black tern and Greater cormorant. 

Gallery

Browse through majestic and iconic wildlife snapshots at Lake Mburo National Park

Things to Do in Lake Mburo National Park

Highlights and iconic activities of Lake Mburo National Park include the following

Iconic Activities

Famous Spots

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FAQ

Browse through our frequently asked questions for more information

Yes, Mburo National Park is considered to be the safest in Uganda and one of the safest destinations in Africa. Due to the lack of large predators like lions and large mammals like elephants, this place is safer for walking safaris and game-viewing activities.

Lake Mburo National Park is accessible primarily by road, located roughly 228-240 km from Uganda’s capital, Kampala. You will travel in our vehicles, stopping at any junction you need for refreshments and other necessities.

Yes, all of your activities, including boating, horseback riding, walking safaris, and game drives, will have an experienced guide to assist you and help you explore new places conveniently.

Several accommodation options are available near Lake Mburo National Park, ranging from mid-range to luxury lodges, catering to a range of traveller needs.

Lake Mburo National Park is Uganda’s smallest savannah national park, renowned as the only protected area in the country holding impalas and Burchell’s zebras. 



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