Lake Mburo National Park in Kiruhura district, western Uganda is the smallest savannah national park spanning around 370 square kilometers. Walking safaris are among the most exciting and thrilling adventures a traveler can engage in to witness the beauty of Lake Mburo National Park. Walking safaris are possible since dangerous wild animals such as lions, elephants and leopards among others are either absent or simply elusive. However, this does not imply that there is no possibility to spot wildlife during your walking safari at Lake Mburo National Park. The safe walking safari will ensure that you encounter various wildlife species including 68 mammal species and at least 350 bird species.
Mammals at Lake Mburo National Park include impala, zebra, giraffe, eland, hyena, and buffaloes among others. Bird species include the mosque swallow, black-bellied bustard, bare-faced go-away bird, heron, African fish eagle, shoebill, and Ruppell’s sterling among others. Other tourism activities at Lake Mburo National Park include a boat cruise on Lake Mburo, a game drive through the game drive tracks, a horse ride at the edge of the park, sport fishing, and cycling among others.
How walking safaris are conducted in Lake Mburo National Park
Since Lake Mburo National Park is rich in biodiversity with various wildlife species, wetland ecosystems, and the lake itself that gives it beautiful scenery, you can tour this place on foot. This occurs either during the day or in the night with the guidance of a park ranger. In the daytime, walking safaris are done at around 10 am and 4 pm. At night, this safari starts at 7 pm to around 9 pm, with the help of spotlights to have a quite clear view of nocturnal animals while you pass on game trails. The walk typically starts from the Rwonyo tourism center, through the park, and to the Lake Mburo shores.
Walking safaris at Lake Mburo National Park can also be conducted outside the park with the guidance of the local communities. Besides spotting wildlife species during the tour, you will also visit the local people to gain insight into the Banyankole and their way of life including their Ankole cattle. This safari starts from either Rwakobo Rock Lodge or Mihingo Lodge.
Cost of a walking safari in Lake Mburo National Park
Any walking safari done within Lake Mburo National Park is managed by the Uganda Wildlife Authority. It costs USD 15 for both foreign non-residents and foreign residents, and UGX 10,000 is charged for citizens of East Africa. Any walking safari outside Lake Mburo National Park is managed by local communities and specific lodges. The cost in this case varies for each lodge and this ranges from 10-20 USD per person per walk.
Booking for a walking safari in Lake Mburo National Park
Booking for a walking safari at Lake Mburo is typically suitable if done in advance but you can also do it upon your arrival at Lake Mburo National Park. For a seamless booking procedure for your walking safari, contact a reputable tour company to arrange for the best itinerary that includes other tour activities and accommodation options. Booking upon your arrival at Lake Mburo National Park, requires you do it at the lodge where you are going to stay. They will issue you a receipt that acknowledges your payment before proceeding with the walking safari.
The best time to go for a walking safari in Lake Mburo National Park
Walking safaris at Lake Mburo National Park can be done throughout the year, however, the best time is during the dry months of December to February and June to October. During this time the roads to the park are dry and navigable compared to the wet season. Walking along the tracks is also easier since they are not slippery and muddy in comparison to the wet seasons.
Accessing Lake Mburo National Park for a walking safari
From Kampala, Lake Mburo National Park is situated 235 kilometers along the Kampala-Masaka-Mbarara highway. The road trip takes 4-5 hours from Kampala city center and you can opt for either public or private means of transport. If you want to save time you can reach Lake Mburo National Park using air transport. This is done by booking a charter and scheduling a flight from Kajjansi Airfield or Entebbe International Airport to Nyakishaara Airstrip in Mbarara City and connecting to the park by road. Once at the park, you can access it from various main gates, including Kyanyanshara Gate which will link you to Mihingo Lodge, Akagate Gate, and Sanga Gate which leads you to Rwakobo Rock Lodge.
What to pack for a walking safari at Lake Mburo National Park
When planning a walking safari at Lake Mburo National Park, it is highly important to pack light yet efficiently to have a comfortable and safe tour experience. Carry a strong pair of comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots suitable for uneven terrain. Footwear should have a good grip with ankle support to provide stability and also protect against potential hazards.
Carry lightweight, breathable clothing in neutral colors to ensure you blend with the surroundings while minimizing disturbance to wildlife. Long-sleeved shirts and pants will offer you protection against the sun’s rays, insects, and vegetation while you are on your walking safari. Pack a wide-brimmed hat or cap for sun protection, sunglasses, sunscreen, and insect repellent to shield against the elements.
Come with a refillable water bottle that will help you store enough water to ensure that you are hydrated throughout your adventures. Do not forget a jacket, raincoat, or even a poncho to ensure that you are safe even during the dry season when there can be chances of showers. This is because Uganda’s weather patterns are quite unpredictable. Carry a basic first-aid kit that contains essentials like bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and any personal medications you might require. Finally, comes with a small backpack that can accommodate a water bottle, snacks, a camera, binoculars, and any other portable essential items.
