Lake Mburo National Park is a hidden gem in Uganda, offering a variety of activities and experiences for every type of traveller. From exciting game drives and boat cruises to walking safaris and unique community walks, the park allows you to explore its diverse wildlife and cultural heritage up close. Whether you’re looking for an adventurous biking safari, a peaceful fishing experience, or the thrill of a night game drive, Lake Mburo provides a perfect blend of nature and culture.
Exploring Rubanga Forest
Located within Lake Mburo National Park, is a tropical rainforest known as a birders’ paradise, hosting over 40 bird species, including the double-toothed barbet, harrier hawk, and shoebill stork. The forest also features diverse tree species, such as fig trees, acacia, and palms. Visitors can enjoy guided nature walks where they may encounter wildlife, including hyenas, hippos, zebras, and impalas. The forest is also home to primates like monkeys. These walks provide a chance to observe the forest’s unique ecosystem, with bird calls in the morning and evening adding to the experience.
Boat Cruise
Lake Mburo National Park offers a unique way to experience the park’s aquatic wildlife. Visitors can encounter hippos, crocodiles, buffaloes, and antelopes along the shores while enjoying the serene environment filled with bird sounds. Birdwatching is also a highlight, with species like the red papyrus gonalek, African fishing eagle, and rare shoebill visible. The best times for the boat cruise are mid-morning and evening, as the activity is not recommended during the rainy season due to strong winds. Overall, the boat cruise adds a joyful and peaceful dimension to a visit to Lake Mburo.
Game Drives
Lake Mburo National Park offers an exciting way to explore the park’s rich wildlife. On a half-day safari, you can spot a wide variety of animals, including zebra, impala, and a growing population of Rothschild’s giraffes, along with over 350 bird species. For a more complete experience, an optional boat ride is recommended to see crocodiles and enjoy excellent birdwatching from the water. Night game drives provide a unique opportunity to spot nocturnal creatures like leopards, hyenas, and serval cats, as they prepare to hunt. While sightings aren’t guaranteed, the thrill of cruising through the park at night is an unforgettable experience. A safari vehicle can be arranged if needed, subject to availability.
Horseback Riding
Lake Mburo National Park offers a unique safari experience, allowing visitors to explore wildlife and varying vegetation from horseback. The activity is available in two sessions: morning (10 am) and afternoon (2 pm), with a maximum of six participants per safari. Beginners can enjoy leisurely rides, while experienced riders can explore areas like Warukiri Valley for 2-5 hours. Horse safaris provide a peaceful, engine-free experience, allowing closer encounters with wildlife, including zebras, impalas, and possibly leopards or buffalo. Rides range from 30 minutes to a full day, with safety equipment like helmets and chaps provided.
Walking Safaris
get up close and personal with nature and explore Lake Mburo National Park on foot! This 2-hour walking safari starts at Nshara Park Entrance Gate and you will be guided by an UWA Ranger into the park for great game viewing. There’s plenty of time to go at your own pace and enjoy the animals. Don’t forget some sturdy shoes and the camera.
Visit to Salt Lick Pond
The salt lick at Lake Mburo National Park is a popular wildlife attraction, where animals gather to lick the salty soils around a shallow water hole. This site is home to various wildlife, including antelope species (impalas, waterbucks, bushbucks, Uganda Kobs), zebras, hippos, warthogs, and Rothschild’s giraffes. To enhance the experience for visitors, the Uganda Wildlife Authority has built a stone viewing point near the salt lick. The best way to visit is during an early morning guided nature walk, offering a chance to observe wildlife in this serene and natural setting.
Go Fishing
In Lake Mburo National Park is a popular activity for those seeking a peaceful and scenic experience. The lake is home to various fish species, such as tilapia and catfish. Fishing is allowed with a permit from the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA), and it’s important to follow the park’s regulations to protect its ecosystem. The best fishing spots are along the lake’s shorelines, where you can hire a local guide or boat for a better experience. Some lodges around the lake also offer fishing gear for rent if you don’t have your own. While fishing, you may encounter wildlife like hippos, crocodiles, and various bird species, making it a scenic adventure. Additionally, some areas might require a catch-and-release practice, so it’s advisable to check the rules before fishing.
Community Walk
In Lake Mburo National Park, the Community Walk often takes visitors to the Nshara Community homestead. Here, you can immerse yourself in the local culture, learning about the traditions, daily life, and livestock management of the community. The walk offers a hands-on experience, allowing you to visit the homestead, interact with locals, and even try milking a cow. It’s a unique opportunity to connect with the community and understand their way of life.
Biking Safaris
Explore Lake Mburo National Park on two wheels! This 2-hour safari offers a thrilling game-viewing experience without the confines of a vehicle. Guided by a UWA ranger, you’ll set your own pace, allowing you to get up close to wildlife for prime viewing and perfect photo opportunities. The experience lets you immerse yourself in nature, feeling the park’s atmosphere as you bike through diverse landscapes. Along the way, you might encounter zebra, impala, and more. Be sure to pack plenty of water, sunscreen, closed-toed shoes, and comfortable neutral-coloured clothes to blend in with the environment and enjoy the adventure fully.