Lake Mburo National Park

Lake Mburo National Park

Lake Mburo National Park is a good stop over on a drive between Entebbe and Bwindi Impenetrable Forest for gorilla trekking and is a hidden gem in Uganda. Even though it’s small, the park is worth a visit for its green hillsides, rocky outcrops, bushy thickets, open and wooded savannas, lush forests, striking lakes and natural swamps – all home to an amazing diversity of flora and fauna. Lake Mburo is just one of five lakes within the park and a motor boat trip on the lake to see hippos, crocs, bird life and stunning scenery is a real highlight.  It is the only national park in the southern part of Uganda where you can see zebra (also seen in Kidepo Valley but that’s further off-the-beaten-track).  Although there are big cats in Lake Mburo, they can be quite elusive, but you will see a number of buck species, sitatunga and eland, and plenty of hippos and crocodiles on the lake.  In addition to boat excursions, you can enjoy traditional game drives, guided walks, horseback safaris and a visit to the Ankole Cultural Centre to learn about the traditional culture of the area and the local way of life.  

Our favorite property at Lake Mburo is Mihingo Lodge. We particularly like that Mihingo offers horseback riding for travelers of all skill levels, including children.

Other areas to explore