Lake Mburo National Park

Lake Mburo National Park evokes the magic of East Africa. Zebra skip elegantly on the plains, hippos dominate the water, and the atmosphere blends the thrill of discovery with the serenity of nature.

Where to find Lake Mburo.

In many ways, Lake Mburo is the perfect stopover. Halfway between Kampala and Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, it breaks the long road journey if you’re visiting the gorillas. Yet this park is more than just an interlude to a journey, it’s a delightful contrast to Uganda’s other wildlife destinations.

Lake Mburo is home to magnificent wildlife.

Buffalos and eland fill the lush green plains, joining the zebra and impala herds. Lookout points are perfect for a picnic watching the hippos, while a young population of giraffe provide more captivating moments. Leopards hide in the trees and although they’re elusive during the day, we’ve found that nighttime game drives can reveal the spotted hunter on the prowl.

Birdlife is prolific and if you’re keen on birdwatching then Lake Mburo should be high on your list. From the endemic red-faced barbet to a series of storks and hornbills, there are over 350 species to find.

Ways to see the fascinating fauna.

This national park isn’t packed with predators. Which makes it perfect for really opening your senses to nature. Walking safaris are the norm, rather than game drives. The horseback rides are great for all levels, then tranquil boat rides give you an ideal angle to photograph yawning hippos. In a couple of days you can combine a range of activities on a very relaxed safari program.

Luxurious lodges.

Completing the retreat is Mihingo Lodge, an exclusive getaway perched on a hillside high above the lake. The drive from Bwindi to Kampala is a long one, so even a one-night stopover helps to keep you energised. We’d always recommend two nights, giving a full day for exploring the colours and charms of the park.

The other reason we like this park so much is its relative anonymity. Very few people have heard about Lake Mburo, never mind actually visited it. So even in Uganda’s peak season, there’s a blissful tranquility to this compact and mystical park.