The Savannah Close to Kampala. A compact park with diverse wildlife, beautiful lakes, and excellent walking safaris
Overview
Lake Mburo National Park is a 370-square-kilometer park located in western Uganda, approximately 240 kilometers from Kampala. The park is the smallest of Uganda’s savanna national parks and the closest to the capital city.
Established in 1983, the park contains a system of lakes and wetlands that form part of a 50km-long wetland system. Lake Mburo itself, together with 13 other lakes in the area, is part of the extensive Lake Mburo wetland system.
The park’s varied habitats include open savanna, acacia woodland, wetlands, and rocky hillsides. This diversity supports a wide range of wildlife, including zebras, impalas, elands, and over 350 bird species.
The Convenient Wilderness
Lake Mburo offers a convenient safari experience for those with limited time or as an introduction to Uganda’s wildlife. Its proximity to Kampala and Entebbe makes it perfect for short breaks or stopovers.
The park is particularly known for its walking safaris, which offer a more intimate wildlife experience. Unlike most Ugandan parks, Lake Mburo allows walking safaris throughout the park with armed guides.
Unique Wildlife Experiences
Lake Mburo is the only national park in Uganda with impalas and the only one where zebras and elands are commonly seen. It also hosts the largest population of leopards in Uganda, though they are elusive.
The park’s lakes and wetlands attract hippos, crocodiles, and numerous water birds. Boat trips on Lake Mburo offer excellent opportunities to see wildlife along the shoreline and observe aquatic species.
Park Highlights
- Only Ugandan park with impalas
- Excellent walking safaris with armed guides
- Boat trips on Lake Mburo
- Closest national park to Kampala
Best Time to Visit
- Year-round destination
- June to August & December to February (Dry season)
- Best wildlife viewing in dry months
- March to May & September to November (Lush vegetation)
Main Park Activities
Lake Mburo offers diverse activities that take advantage of its compact size and varied habitats:
Walking Safaris
Explore the park on foot with armed guides for close wildlife encounters
Boat Trips
Cruise Lake Mburo to see hippos, crocodiles, and water birds
Game Drives
Morning and evening drives to spot zebras, impalas, and elands
Mountain Biking
Bike through the park on designated trails with wildlife viewing
Quick Facts
Distance from Entebbe International Airport
240 kilometres (149 miles)
Size
370 sq km (143 sq mi)
Elevation
1,220 to 1,828 meters (4,003 to 5,997 ft)
Year Established
1983
Lake System
14 lakes in the area, part of 50km wetland system
Wildlife Population
68 mammal species
350 bird species
3,500+ impalas
70+ hippos
Other Activities
Mountain Biking
Ride through the park on wildlife viewing trails
Horseback Riding
Horseback safaris for unique wildlife viewing perspectives
Bird Watching
Spot water birds, raptors, and savanna specialists
Community Visits
Visit local communities and cultural centers
What to Expect on Your Safari
1
Walking Safaris
Experience wildlife up close on foot with armed guides. Walk through acacia woodland and savanna to spot zebras, impalas, elands, and other wildlife from a unique perspective.
2
Boat Trips on Lake Mburo
Cruise the lake to see hippos, crocodiles, and abundant water birds. Enjoy the peaceful scenery and spot animals coming to drink at the water’s edge.
3
Active Adventures
Try mountain biking or horseback riding through the park for active wildlife viewing. These activities offer unique ways to explore the diverse habitats.