How to Get to Lake Mburo from Kampala or Entebbe
To get to Lake Mburo National Park from Kampala or Entebbe, you have several options. The park lies in western Uganda, about 245 kilometers from Kampala and 225 kilometers from Entebbe. It offers a short and scenic drive that fits well into a weekend or short holiday. Lake Mburo is the nearest savannah park to Kampala and Entebbe. It’s home to zebras, giraffes, impalas, hippos, and many birds. Whether you drive, fly, or take a bus, reaching Lake Mburo is easy. The park is perfect for people who want wildlife without long travel hours. You don’t need to plan far ahead to enjoy this place. With easy access by road or air, many travelers visit Lake Mburo as their first or last stop. Here is how you travel there and what to do once inside the park.
Getting to Lake Mburo by Road
From Kampala
Driving from Kampala to Lake Mburo takes about four hours. You follow the Kampala-Masaka-Mbarara highway for around 245 kilometers. The road is smooth and well-maintained. Along the way, you pass small towns and green landscapes. You will also cross the Equator line at Kayabwe, which is a great photo stop. It is a direct and easy drive if you follow road signs carefully.
From Entebbe
If you start from Entebbe, the drive takes about four and a half hours. You cover around 225 kilometers using the Entebbe-Masaka highway. Traffic in Entebbe may delay your trip, especially in the morning. It is best to leave early. The road joins the Kampala-Masaka highway after about 40 kilometers. From there, you drive straight to the park.
Park Entrance Gates
Lake Mburo National Park has three main entry points. Nshara Gate is the easiest gate to use if coming from Kampala. Sanga Gate is close to the town of Sanga and suits those coming from Mbarara. Kyanyanshara Gate is best for visitors heading to Mihingo Lodge. Always check the best gate based on your accommodation.
Getting to Lake Mburo by Air
Charter Flights
Flying to Lake Mburo saves you time but costs more. Charter flights leave from Entebbe International Airport or Kajjansi Airstrip near Kampala. The flights land at Mbarara Airstrip, which is about one hour’s drive to the park.
A direct flight to Mbarara takes about 45 minutes to one hour. It is the fastest way to reach Lake Mburo.
Charter flights are expensive compared to road travel. Prices usually start from about USD 300 per adult for a one-way trip. Some companies offer group discounts if you fly with others.
Getting to Lake Mburo by Bus
Bus Companies
Traveling by bus is the cheapest way to reach Lake Mburo. Bismarkan Coaches and Jaguar Coaches both operate daily buses from Kampala to Mbarara town.
The bus ride takes about five and a half hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. From Mbarara, you may hire a taxi or arrange a private car to the park. This adds about an hour to your trip.
Activities to Enjoy in Lake Mburo National Park
Game Drives
Game drives are one of the best ways to see wildlife in Lake Mburo. You drive through savannahs, woodlands, and wetlands. You may spot zebras, giraffes, buffaloes, and impalas during the day. Night game drives reveal nocturnal animals like leopards and bush babies. Always go with a ranger guide for safety and better wildlife viewing.
Boat Trips
Boat trips offer a different way to enjoy the park. Cruises on Lake Mburo reveal many bird species along the shores. You may also spot hippos and crocodiles in the water. Trips usually last about one to two hours. Morning and late afternoon are the best times for a boat trip.
Walking Safaris
Lake Mburo is one of the few parks in Uganda where you may walk freely. Guided walking safaris bring you closer to the animals and landscapes. Walks usually start early in the morning when animals are most active. Always move with a ranger for safety and guidance.
Horseback Riding Safaris
Mihingo Lodge offers horseback riding safaris inside the park. Riding a horse lets you approach animals without noise from a vehicle. Short rides take about one hour, while longer excursions last up to four hours. This activity suits visitors who want a quiet, peaceful way to explore the park.
Bird Watching
Lake Mburo is a paradise for bird lovers. The park hosts over 350 bird species. Common birds include African fish eagles, kingfishers, and crowned cranes. The swampy areas and woodlands are good places to find many colorful birds. Early morning and late afternoon are best for bird watching.
Cultural Tours
Cultural tours offer a chance to learn about the Bahima people who live around the park. Visit a local homestead and watch traditional cattle-keeping practices. You may also tour the Igongo Cultural Centre near Mbarara to learn more about Ankole culture. Cultural tours add a human touch to your safari experience.
Sport Fishing
Lake Mburo offers sport fishing for visitors interested in catching fish. The main fishing spot is Mazinga, located on the lake. Tilapia is the main fish species caught here. You must obtain a fishing permit before you fish. Local guides are available to help with gear and fishing techniques.
Rubanga Forest Walk
Rubanga Forest is a small but dense forest inside Lake Mburo National Park. Guided forest walks show you another side of the park’s rich diversity. The forest shelters many bird species and colorful plants. A ranger guide leads the walk and explains the plants and animals found here.
Cycling Safaris
Cycling safaris are a fun way to explore areas near the park. You ride along dirt tracks outside the park boundary. Some lodges offer bicycles for hire. Cycling offers exercise, fresh air, and a closer look at the countryside. It is a good activity for those who love outdoor adventure.
