Arcadia Cottages: Lake Mburo National Park

Arcadia Cottages Lake Mburo National Park – A Serene Haven for Wildlife Enthusiasts

Nestled just 2 kilometers away from the park headquarters at Rwonyo, Arcadia Cottages Lake Mburo National Park offers an enchanting retreat that serves as an ideal base for exploring this pristine wilderness. Whether you seek an exhilarating game drive, a mesmerizing boat cruise, or an immersive guided walking safari, this charming lodge promises an unforgettable experience.

The accommodation at Arcadia Cottages is comprised of eight self-contained cottages thoughtfully arranged around a central lodge building. Here, guests can relish delectable dishes at the restaurant or unwind while savoring the breathtaking views from the newly constructed raised deck. As the day comes to a close, there’s no better way to wind down than by the open fire, sipping on a refreshing drink from the bar. It’s not uncommon to have impalas, warthogs, and even the occasional hippo grazing on the grass just a stone’s throw away, creating an atmosphere of pure tranquility.

Activities and Attractions in Lake Mburo National Park

Walking Safaris:

Lake Mburo National Park welcomes all visitors eager to embark on guided nature walking safaris, typically conducted in the company of an armed park ranger guide. These guided walks lead you to the salt lick, considered one of the prime spots for encountering a myriad of wildlife.

Safari Game Drives:

With 68 mammal species and a staggering 350 bird species, Lake Mburo boasts an impressive concentration of wildlife. Witness the growing giraffe family and the thriving hippo population during a safari game drive. Don’t forget to opt for the optional boat ride, ensuring you don’t miss the opportunity to observe crocodiles and indulge in prime bird watching from the water. If you don’t have your own safari vehicle, fret not; arrangements can be made, subject to availability.

Night Game Drives:

Lake Mburo emerges as one of the premier destinations for nocturnal wildlife encounters. Keep an eye out for elusive creatures such as leopards, porcupines, and white-tailed mongooses. The sounds of the wild, including the haunting calls of hyenas, zebras, buffalos, and bush babies, heighten the thrill of the night.

Horseback Riding Safaris:

Lake Mburo National Park offers a unique opportunity to embark on a game viewing adventure while astride a horse. This captivating activity sets the park apart from other national parks in the country, allowing visitors to witness wildlife from a truly distinctive perspective. Conducted at Mihingo Lodge under the guidance of trained staff and park rangers, these horseback rides can last from 1 to 3 hours, offering an immersive experience in the savannah with captivating views of wild game.

Fishing Safaris:

Lake Mburo provides an excellent setting for fishing enthusiasts. The lake is home to six fish species, with tilapia being the most commonly caught. Other species include catfish, lungfish, tiger fish, Angara fish, and barbell. Mazinga is the preferred fishing spot at Lake Mburo. Travelers interested in a fish safari must bring their own equipment and obtain access permits from Uganda Wildlife Authority.

Community Walks:

Nearby lodges near Lake Mburo National Park are deeply committed to preserving the local traditions and cultures of the Bahima people. They have partnered with a local family in close proximity to the lodge, providing guests with a glimpse into the Bahima way of life. Guests can learn how to make local ghee while engaging in discussions with women about their traditions and cultures. Depending on the timing of the tour, you might even have the opportunity to participate in milking Ankole cows.

Boat Cruise on Lake Mburo:

A boat cruise on Lake Mburo is a highly rewarding activity. It promises a delightful view of the park’s splendid flora and fauna, complete with sightings of crocodiles, hippos, and an array of bird species, including African fish eagles, pelicans, kingfishers, herons, cormorants, rare African finfoot, and hammerkops. During dry seasons, various wildlife species also frequent the water areas, including buffalos and antelopes.

Birding Safaris:

Bird enthusiasts are in for a treat when visiting Lake Mburo National Park. A boat cruise on the lake ensures a captivating view of the park’s diverse flora and fauna, accompanied by glimpses of crocodiles, hippos, and numerous bird species. Among the avian treasures are African fish eagles, pelicans, kingfishers, herons, cormorants, rare shoebills, and hammerkops. During dry seasons, several wildlife species also inhabit the water areas, including buffalos and antelopes.

Biking Safaris:

Embarking on bicycle tours around the park provides a unique and adventurous way to explore its natural wonders. Guided by Uganda Wildlife Authority rangers who possess intimate knowledge of the park’s terrain, you can enjoy up to an hour of biking amidst zebras, elands, buffaloes, antelopes, bushbucks, and more. While some areas present hilly challenges, others offer sloping terrain. Nonetheless, the bike trails guarantee a truly incredible experience.

For an unforgettable Lake Mburo experience, Trek Africa Expeditions can assist you in booking your stay at Arcadia Cottages Lake Mburo and coordinating a wide array of activities throughout the park. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to immerse yourself in the splendor of this remarkable natural wonderland.