Lake Mburo National Park is the nearest savanna park to Kampala, about four to five hours by road on the way to the south-west, and the easiest way to see big wildlife without committing to a long trip. Rolling grassland, acacia woodland and wetlands surround a chain of lakes, with Lake Mburo itself as the centrepiece. The park is small, but it holds a surprising amount of wildlife, and the animals are relatively easy to spot in the open landscape. It is the best place in Uganda to see zebras, which are not found in most other parks. Impala, eland, topi, buffalo, waterbuck, warthog and hippos are common, giraffes graze across the hills, and leopards, hyenas and jackals live in the woodland. Elephants and lions are not usually resident, so it is not a big-cat destination, but the variety of antelope and the dense bird life, including the rare shoebill and the African finfoot, make it well worth a stop. What sets Lake Mburo apart is the way you can explore it. Besides game drives, there are guided walking safaris with armed rangers, mountain-bike trails, horseback rides and boat cruises on the lake, where hippos, crocodiles and birds are close to the boat. The slower pace and the chance to approach animals on foot give the park a different atmosphere from the bigger parks.
Getting there
Lake Mburo is a convenient stop on the main road between Kampala and the south-western parks, and it makes a useful overnight on the way to or from Bwindi. A one-day trip from Kampala is long but possible, and several operators sell it, including the full-day product linked from this page. A night at one of the lodges is more relaxed and lets you add a dawn or dusk drive, a lake cruise and a night walk.
Which tour to choose
Day trips emphasise the drive, so a short visit offers a game drive and a boat trip. Two-day trips add time for walking or horseback safaris and give more time in the park at the best light. Check what is included, in particular park entry, lunch, the boat trip and the guide. Park fees are set by the Uganda Wildlife Authority and charged per person, and the prices for activities such as walks and horse rides vary by operator.
Practicalities
Bring binoculars, a hat, sunscreen and insect repellent, and wear neutral colours. The park is dry for much of the year, but the rainy seasons turn tracks muddy, so use a 4x4 vehicle. Horse riding and cycling need booking in advance and have their own requirements for fitness and age. Walks are led by armed rangers who will brief you on safety. Malaria is present, so speak with a doctor about prevention before travelling.
Wildlife on foot
Walking safaris at Lake Mburo typically last two to three hours and are led by an armed ranger who explains tracks, dung and the habits of the animals. You are likely to get close to zebras, impala and warthog, and you can learn to identify the common acacia species and birds. Night drives, offered by some lodges, bring out porcupines, civets, bush babies and nightjars. Do not leave your tent or room at night without an escort, because hippos graze around the camps after dark.
What to expect
The experience
A game drive and lake cruise, with optional guided walking, cycling or horseback safaris, in Uganda's smallest savanna park.
Best time
The drier months of December to February and June to September are easiest, though wildlife is present all year.
How long
A long day trip or, better, an overnight stay.
Tips
Use it as an overnight on the way to Bwindi, book walks or horse rides ahead and bring binoculars.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Travellers who want an easy safari with zebras and walking options.
- Families
- Good for children thanks to the boat trip and the open landscape.
- Couples
- A quiet lodge stay with a sunset on the lake.
- Pair with
- Equator line, Bwindi gorilla trekking and Queen Elizabeth National Park.
- Time needed
- One long day or an overnight.
Good questions
How far is Lake Mburo from Kampala?+
About four to five hours by road, depending on traffic.
Which animals can I see?+
Zebras, impala, eland, topi, buffalo, giraffes, hippos, warthogs and many birds. Elephants and lions are not usually resident.
Can I walk in the park?+
Yes. Guided walking safaris with armed rangers are available, as well as cycling and horseback options.
Can I visit on a day trip?+
Yes, but it is a long day. An overnight stay is more comfortable and lets you do more.
Is there a boat trip?+
Yes. A cruise on Lake Mburo gives close views of hippos, crocodiles and birds.
