Lake Mburo National Park
Lake Mburo National Park is located in western Uganda, precisely Kiruhura district. The park is relatively argued to be Uganda’s smallest savanna park. However, the park still remains of great importance and the nearest to the capital of Kampala. 20% of the park is wetland and the other, acacia woodland, savanna and forest.
The park’s endemic is the Impala from which Uganda’s capital derives its name. Though less visited the Lake Mburu National Park is a recommended stop over especially for tourists to the far west national parks especially Bwindi and Queen Elizabeth. Lake Mburo is the only national park in Uganda where game can be viewed on horseback, quad bike and on foot.
The handsome Impala from which Kampala derives its’ name is an endemic in this park. Other resident animal species include: Burchell’s zebra, topi, bush buck, common duiker, oribi, Defassa waterbuck, Bohor reedbuck, buffalo, warthog, hippo, bush pig, roan antelope, eland and klipspringer. Two diurnal primates olive baboon and vervet monkey occur in this park. Less frequently seen are the spotted hyena, leopard, lion, side stripped jackal, white tailed mongoose. A total of 315 bird species have been recorded in the park including acacia associates, forest and swamp dwellers. Papyrus gonolek, blue headed coucal, southern ground hornbill, mosque swallow, are some of the existent birds in the park.
Activities
Quad biking
This is one of the most exciting activities to be allowed in a Ugandan national park. This activity is exclusive to Lake Mburo national park with 2-4 hour packages. Maximum number of people allowed in a group is five.
Horseback safaris
This is another exclusive to the park. It differs from quad biking due to the absence of engine oil. Good natured ponies are available for the kids and ex-race horses for the adults.
Boat rides
A motor boat trip on the lake Mburo will grant you sightings of wildlife like waterbuck, bushbuck, hippo, 3 species of otter, and crocodile. Water birds like African fish eagle, marabou stork, egrets, herons, Ross’s Turaco may also be seen.
Game drives
This is an excellent opportunity for viewing game. Drives are done on specially designed tracks with good results in both dry and wet seasons depending on track taken.
Guided walks
A major attraction in the park; which is done in the company of an armed ranger. View the salt lick from a platform in the park. Enjoy a birding walk in Rubanga forest.
Lake Mburo National Park is a protected area in western Uganda that was established in 1983. The park covers an area of 370 square kilometers and is known for its diverse wildlife and beautiful landscapes.
The park’s centerpiece is Lake Mburo, a shallow lake that is home to a variety of aquatic species, including hippos, crocodiles, and over 300 species of birds. The park is also home to several species of mammals, including zebras, impalas, buffaloes, leopards, and hyenas.
Visitors to Lake Mburo National Park can participate in a range of activities, including game drives, boat safaris, and guided nature walks. The park is also one of the few places in Uganda where visitors can take guided horseback rides through the park.
In addition to its wildlife, the park features stunning landscapes, including rolling hills, savannah grasslands, and forests. The park is also home to several cultural sites, including the Rubanga Forest, which is considered sacred by the local Banyankole tribe.
Overall, Lake Mburo National Park is a must-see destination for anyone interested in wildlife and nature, as well as those who want to experience the culture of Uganda.