Lake Mburo National Park
Uganda's Smallest Savanna Park, Biggest Adventure
Destination Overview
Lake Mburo National Park lies in western Uganda's Kiruhura District, about 30 km east of Mbarara City and just 228 km from Kampala. At 370 square kilometers, it's Uganda's smallest savanna national park but delivers exceptional wildlife experiences. The park is unique as the only protected area in Uganda with impala and the country's densest zebra populations.
This biodiverse mosaic of acacia woodlands, savanna grasslands, and wetlands encompasses 5 lakes and harbors 68 mammal species and over 350 bird species. The absence of lions and elephants makes Lake Mburo Uganda's premier destination for walking safaris and horseback adventures—bringing you closer to nature than traditional vehicle-based game drives allow.
Size
370 km²
Distance from Kampala
228 km (3.5-4 hours)
Mammal Species
68 species
Bird Species
350+
How to Get There
By Road from Kampala
Distance: 228 km via well-maintained Masaka-Mbarara highway
Travel Time: 3.5-4 hours by private vehicle
Entry Points: Nshara Gate (main entrance) or Sanga Gate (southern entrance)
4WD recommended during rainy seasons. Regular 2WD sufficient in dry season.
By Air
Mbarara Airstrip: Charter flights from Entebbe (45-minute flight). Located 30-minute drive from park.
Best For: Business travelers or those on tight schedules combining multiple destinations.
Charter flights arranged through tour operators or aviation companies. Ground transfers provided.
Strategic Location
Perfect Stopover: Ideal break between Kampala and western Uganda parks (Bwindi, Queen Elizabeth)
From Rwanda: 4-5 hours via Katuna border crossing
Accessibility: Most accessible savanna park for short trips from Kampala
Popular for weekend getaways and multi-park itineraries.
Key Highlights
Zebra Herds
Lake Mburo boasts Uganda's highest zebra density. Large herds graze openly across golden savanna grasslands, creating spectacular photographic opportunities and unforgettable wildlife encounters.
Boat Safaris
Two-hour boat cruises on Lake Mburo reveal hippos, Nile crocodiles, and spectacular wetland birds including African fish eagles, cormorants, and kingfishers in their natural aquatic habitat.
Walking Safaris
Armed ranger-guided walking safaris provide intimate wildlife encounters impossible from vehicles. The absence of lions makes Lake Mburo one of East Africa's safest parks for on-foot exploration.
Horseback Safaris
Experience Africa's wildlife from horseback—a unique perspective that allows remarkably close approaches to zebras, giraffes, and antelope as they recognize horses as non-threatening.
Unique Wildlife
Only Ugandan park with impala populations. Abundant eland, buffalo, warthogs, and giraffes roam acacia woodlands. Recently reintroduced Rothschild giraffes add to wildlife diversity.
Bahima Culture
Engage with local Bahima pastoralists famous for their iconic Ankole long-horned cattle. Cultural visits reveal traditional herding practices, milk culture, and ancient warrior heritage.
Featured Safari Experiences
Discover our carefully curated safari packages featuring Lake Mburo National Park. Each experience combines world-class wildlife encounters with meaningful conservation impact.
Travel Tips
Best Time to Visit
Dry Seasons (December-February, June-September): Optimal game viewing as animals concentrate around water sources. Roads easily navigable. Best for walking and horseback safaris.
Wet Seasons (March-May, October-November): Lush green landscapes, excellent birding with migrants. Fewer crowds. Some trails may be muddy but still accessible.
Park accessible year-round. 4WD recommended during heavy rains for comfort.
What to Pack
Essential: Comfortable hiking shoes, neutral-colored clothing, sunhat, sunscreen, binoculars, camera
For Walking Safaris: Sturdy closed-toe shoes, long pants, water bottle, insect repellent
For Horseback: Long pants, closed shoes with heels, hat with chin strap
Light layers recommended as temperatures vary. Bring rain jacket year-round.
Health & Safety
Walking Safaris: Armed rangers accompany all walks. No lions or elephants makes walking exceptionally safe. Follow ranger instructions.
Malaria: Lower risk but prophylaxis still recommended. Use insect repellent especially at dusk.
Horseback Requirements: Minimum age 12, maximum weight 95kg. Basic riding skills helpful but not required.
Fitness: Moderate fitness sufficient for most activities. Horseback and walking suitable for families.
Budgeting Tips
Duration: 2-3 days ideal for experiencing park highlights. Perfect weekend getaway from Kampala.
Accommodation: Range from budget camping ($15-30) to luxury lodges. Book ahead for peak season.
Activities: Game drives and boat safaris most popular. Consider multi-activity packages for better value.
Strategic Stop: Excellent stopover between Kampala and western parks (Bwindi, Queen Elizabeth).
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there lions or elephants in Lake Mburo?
No, Lake Mburo has no resident lions or elephants. This makes it Uganda's safest park for walking safaris and horseback riding. You can explore on foot with minimal danger from large predators.
How safe are walking safaris?
Very safe. Armed Uganda Wildlife Authority rangers accompany all walks and are trained in wildlife behavior. The absence of lions and elephants makes Lake Mburo exceptionally safe for on-foot exploration compared to other parks.
How long should I spend at Lake Mburo?
2-3 days ideal for experiencing key activities: game drives, boat safari, walking safari, and horseback riding. Many visitors use it as a 1-night stopover between Kampala and western parks, which still allows good wildlife viewing.
What makes Lake Mburo unique?
It's the only Ugandan park with impala, has the country's highest zebra density, offers safe walking and horseback safaris, and is the most accessible savanna park from Kampala. Perfect for weekend trips and multi-park itineraries.
Do I need horseback riding experience?
No prior experience required for basic rides. Well-trained horses and experienced guides accommodate beginners. However, some riding confidence helps for longer excursions. Age minimum 12 years, weight maximum 95kg.
What wildlife will I see?
Zebras (very common), giraffes, impala, buffalo, eland, warthogs, hippos, crocodiles, and various antelope species. Leopards present but rarely seen. Over 350 bird species including waterbirds and savanna specialists.
Can I combine Lake Mburo with other destinations?
Absolutely! Lake Mburo is strategically located for western Uganda circuits. Combine with Bwindi (4-5 hours), Queen Elizabeth NP (4 hours), or use as a stopover en route to these parks. Perfect multi-destination itinerary addition.
When is the best time for boat safaris?
Year-round activity with consistent wildlife. Early morning and late afternoon offer best lighting and animal activity. Sunset cruises provide magical golden-hour photography and increased bird activity around the lake.
Experience Uganda's Most Accessible Safari
Discover the intimate beauty of Lake Mburo National Park where walking safaris and horseback rides bring you closer to nature than ever before. From zebra herds to boat cruises among hippos, Lake Mburo delivers authentic safari experiences just hours from Kampala.
Plan Your Lake Mburo Adventure