How Much Does It Cost to Visit Lake Mburo National Park?
Are you dreaming of a safari to Lake Mburo National Park and wondering about the costs? From transportation and accommodation to park entrance fees and activities, we’ve got you covered. At Trek Africa Expeditions, we provide transparent, all-inclusive itineraries tailored to your interests, ensuring an unforgettable experience without hidden costs.
Lake Mburo National Park: A Hidden Gem in Uganda
Nestled in western Uganda, Lake Mburo National Park is the country’s smallest savannah park but boasts unique wildlife and breathtaking scenery. It’s the only park in Uganda home to eland, impala, and klipspringer, along with the country’s largest zebra population (estimated at 5,000). Though rare, leopards are also found in high numbers here. Other wildlife includes buffalo, waterbuck, topi, warthogs, reedbuck, oribi, hyenas, genets, bush pigs, and white-tailed mongooses, which are often spotted during night game drives.
Bird lovers will be delighted by the park’s 350 bird species, making it a prime birding destination. Due to its strategic location, Lake Mburo National Park is a popular stopover for travelers heading to or from western Uganda.
How Much Do Activities Cost in Lake Mburo National Park?
Guided Day Game Drives
Wildlife viewing is the highlight of any visit to Lake Mburo. Morning and evening game drives offer chances to see giraffes, buffaloes, elands, waterbucks, antelopes, zebras, oribis, topis, warthogs, and—if you’re lucky—a leopard. Game drives cost $20 per vehicle when accompanied by a park guide.
Night Game Drives
A night safari provides a rare opportunity to spot nocturnal animals like bush babies, pottos, and—if fortune favors you—a leopard. This unique experience starts at 7 PM, lasts about an hour, and costs $30 per vehicle. You can arrange this activity in advance or upon arrival.
Boat Cruise on Lake Mburo
Enjoy a two-hour boat cruise for $30 per person, where you’ll see hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species, including African fish eagles, pelicans, kingfishers, herons, and cormorants. Private boat tours can also be arranged upon request.
Walking Safari in Lake Mburo National Park
For a more immersive experience, take a guided walking safari for $30 per person. Led by a park guide and armed ranger, this adventure allows you to get up close to zebras, giraffes, warthogs, and other wildlife—perfect for photography and learning about the ecosystem.
Guided Forest Walk
Explore the small but diverse forest on the western side of Lake Mburo, home to a variety of bird species, making it a fantastic birding destination. This guided nature walk costs $30 per person and takes you along scenic trails where you can observe unique tree species, monkeys, reptiles, and an abundance of birdlife.
Horseback Safaris
One of the most exciting budget-friendly activities in Lake Mburo National Park, horseback safaris are operated by Mihingo Lodge, a luxury lodge in the park. This adventure allows you to get up close to wildlife in a way few other safaris can. Due to its popularity, booking in advance is highly recommended. Prices start at $40 per person, depending on the duration of the ride.
Cultural and Community Encounter
Experience the vibrant culture of the communities surrounding Lake Mburo National Park. Many locals are cattle keepers, and visitors can learn about traditional grazing and milking practices, as well as other aspects of rural Ugandan life. A visit to the Igongo Cultural Museum offers deeper insight into western Uganda’s rich heritage.
Lake Mburo National Park Entrance Fees
Park entrance fees contribute to the overall cost of your visit. The fees are as follows:
- $40 per person for foreign non-residents
- $30 per person for foreign residents
- UGX 20,000 for East African citizens
Fees are valid for 24 hours and can be paid at the park headquarters or the main office in Kampala.
Accommodation Costs in Lake Mburo National Park
Lake Mburo National Park offers a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets:
- Luxury Lodges ($200-$400 per person per night): Options include Montana Luxury Tented Camp, Arcadia Lodge, and Mihingo Safari Lodge.
- Midrange & Budget Lodges ($70-$100 per person per night): Choices include Rwakobo Rock Lodge, Lake Mburo Safari Lodge, and Emburara Lodge.
We can help you choose and book the best accommodation for your safari, ensuring comfort and a memorable stay.
Transportation Costs to Lake Mburo National Park
Lake Mburo is accessible by road, approximately 3-4 hours’ drive from Kampala or Entebbe. The park has multiple entry gates, including Kyanyanshara (for Mihingo Lodge), Akagate, and Sanga (for Rwakobo Rock Lodge).
- 4×4 Safari Vehicle Rental: $100-$150 per day, including a professional guide, fuel, and comfortable seating with an open roof for optimal game viewing.
- Flying Safari: Chartered and scheduled flights are available from Kajjansi or Entebbe International Airport to Mbarara Airstrip. The flight takes about 45 minutes, followed by a short drive to the park. Flights start at $300 per adult one way and should be booked in advance.
Why Book Your Trip with Trek Africa Expeditions?
At Trek Africa Expeditions, we craft unforgettable safari experiences in Lake Mburo National Park. Our team combines young, energetic professionals with experienced managers who are passionate about showcasing Uganda’s beauty. We are highly rated on TripAdvisor, where past travelers share their incredible experiences with us.
Contact us today to plan your safari and receive a detailed, costed itinerary with no hidden charges!