Lake Mburo National Park Uganda : You may wondering where you should go for a unique adventure during your precious vacation time. Africa is an incredible destination for wildlife adventures and cultural exploration that may satisfy your thirst. Out of many wonderful nations of Africa, Uganda is a hidden gem for those looking to explore the untouched nature and the remnants of the amazing primates, the gorillas and chimpanzees. This spectacular nation hosts 10 splendid national parks and 11 wildlife reserves, all of which are managed by Uganda Wildlife Authority.
Lake Mburo National Park which is dubbed as the smallest park in Uganda, is tremendously special for combining a lot of experiences from wildlife exploration to cultural visits. This park is only 370 square kilometers in size, however, it is rich in varieties of attractions making it a perfect spot for a number of activities.
What to see in Lake Mburo National Park
This small park is endowed with some picturesque attractions which are worth watching.
Lake Mburo National Park is home to over 95 species of mammals. Some of these beautiful animals include reedbucks, elands, warthogs, hippos, jackals, impalas, buffaloes, zebras, and Rothschild’s giraffes, topi and hyenas which were later introduced in this gracious park.
Over 350 species of birds live in this unique park. They are usually encountered in lush forests of acacia trees and in swampy areas. You will meet with some special birds such as mosque swallow, southern ground hornbill, Ruppell’s starling, black-bellied bustard, black-throated barbet, and barefaced do-away bird.
The landscape of Lake Mburo National Park is eye catching and splendidly gorgeous. The park is mainly dominated by swamps, which occupies about twenty percent of the whole park. About 13 lakes can be accessed in this park, five of which lies within its borders. Another stunning feature of Lake Mburo National Park is a 50km-long wetland system which is linked by a swamp. These swamps and wetland systems are homes to several water birds as well as aquatic animals such as crocodiles, hippos, and fishes.
Lake Mburo itself is an amazing water body where boat cruises are organized daily. Boat cruise is an unforgettable 1-2 hours trip through Lake Mburo which gives exceptional experiences to visitors with Explore Africa Safaris
The vegetation of Lake Mburo National Park is made up of woodland due to the absence of elephants to level up the park’s vegetation. It was once dominated by savannah plains before but it turned into woodlands due to the absence of elephants that help to tame the trees.
What to do in Lake Mburo National Park Uganda
Sport fishing: With your fishing equipment you can enjoy the catch-and-release feeling. You can also fish some edible fish for your dinner or lunch.
Guided nature walks: You can opt to get out of the 4×4 vehicle and explore the magical views of Lake Mburo National Park.
Cultural tours: Lake Mburo National Park is neighbored by the Banyankole, who are famous pastoralists with their Ankole long-horned cattle.
Getting to Lake Mburo National Park Uganda
This glorious park is located in Nyabushozi County in Kiruhura District in Western Uganda, just 30 kilometers east of Mbarara town. The park can be accessed by either road or air.
If you want to access Lake Mburo National Park by road, you will have to drive from the capital city of Uganda, Kampala which is a 228 kilometers distance. You will stop at one of its two main gates namely Nshara gate and Sanga gate. A drive from Kampala will take you about 3:30 hours, and is full of scenic views along the road. At the main gates, you will be registered and produces all necessary documents as well as paying the entry fees. From there you will be free to enjoy the magical views of this fascinating park.
Unfortunately Lake Mburo National Park lacks airstrip. However, if you want to access it by air, you will book a chartered flight from either Kajjansi Airstrip or Entebbe International Airport to Mbarara Airstrip, which will take one and half an hour, followed by a 30-kilometers drive from Mbarara town to Lake Mburo National Park.
The best time to go for a visit at Lake Mburo National Park is during the dry seasons, which are from June to August and from December to February. However, birdwatchers will find their tour unforgettable when they visit Lake Mburo National Park during the wet seasons (March to May and September to November).
Lake Mburo National Park Entrance Fees
Apart from other costs that you may incur during your Uganda safari in Lake Mburo National Park, the entrance fees are paid at the entrance gates to Uganda Wildlife Authority official. They are valid for 24 hours and are paid per person.
Adult foreign residents above 16 years will be charged $30 while children aged between 5 and 15 years will be charged $10. For foreign non-residents, the entrance fee is $40 for and $20 for children. For East African citizens, the entrance fees are UGX 20,000 for adults, and UGX 5000 for children.
Generally speaking Lake Mburo National Park is a must-visit tourist destination for every safari-goer who is keen at discovering the virgin nature.
