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April 4, 2025Rwonyo Rest Camp: Affordable Safari Lodge in Lake Mburo National Park
Nestled within the scenic landscapes of Lake Mburo National Park, Rwonyo Rest Camp is an ideal getaway for budget travelers and students looking for an affordable yet immersive safari experience. Managed by the Uganda Wildlife Authority, this camp offers a variety of accommodation options, including bandas, tented rooms, and a designated campsite at Mazinga for those who prefer sleeping under the stars.
Lake Mburo National Park is the closest national park to Uganda’s capital, Kampala, making it the perfect destination for a one-day wildlife adventure or a longer, more relaxed safari experience.
How to Get to Rwonyo Rest Camp
Rwonyo Rest Camp is accessible via the Nshara Gate, which is just 30 kilometers from the main road. The camp’s design incorporates locally sourced materials such as thatched grass and wooden structures, creating an authentic African atmosphere. This eco-friendly construction attracts various wildlife species, providing guests with frequent close-up encounters with nature.
Accommodation Options at Rwonyo Rest Camp
Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a group, Rwonyo Rest Camp has a variety of affordable accommodation choices to suit your needs:
- Bandas – Traditional wooden huts with shared bathrooms (USD 60 per night)
- Tented Rooms – Elevated wooden platforms with private showers (USD 80 per night)
- Camping – Bring your own tent (USD 40 per night) or rent one from the camp (USD 50 per night)
Note: Accommodation rates exclude meals, which can be purchased separately at the onsite restaurant.
Dining Experience at Rwonyo Rest Camp
The camp’s onsite restaurant offers a variety of delicious meals, available in half-board and full-board options. Professionally prepared by experienced chefs, the menu features nutritious and flavorful dishes that cater to different dietary preferences.
Top Activities to Do at Rwonyo Rest Camp, Lake Mburo National Park
1. Game Drives – Explore Uganda’s Wildlife
- Day Game Drives: Experience thrilling safari drives in search of giraffes, zebras, elands, topis, and impalas. The best times for game drives are early morning and late afternoon when animals are most active.
- Night Game Drives: Discover the park’s nocturnal wildlife, including bush babies, pottos, and, with some luck, the elusive leopard.
2. Lake Mburo Boat Safari
Enjoy a two-hour boat ride on Lake Mburo, where you can spot hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of water birds in their natural habitat.
3. Walking Safaris – Get Closer to Nature
For an immersive experience, take a guided walking safari through the park. This allows you to observe wildlife up close, take stunning photographs, and learn more about the animals and their environment.
4. Mountain Biking – A Thrilling Adventure
Operated by Rwakobo Rock and Leopard Rest Camp, mountain biking safaris provide a unique and active way to explore Lake Mburo National Park while spotting wildlife along the trails.
5. Bird Watching – A Paradise for Bird Lovers
Lake Mburo National Park is home to over 332 bird species, making it one of Uganda’s premier birdwatching destinations. Notable species include:
- Shoebill Stork
- Papyrus Gonolek
- White-Winged Warbler
- Papyrus Yellow Warbler
6. Forest Walk – Discover Hidden Birding Spots
Explore the small forest on the western side of the park, which hosts a variety of unique bird species, offering an excellent opportunity for birdwatching enthusiasts.
7. Horseback Safaris – A Unique Safari Experience
Mihingo Lodge offers horseback safaris, allowing visitors to get close to wildlife without the disturbance of vehicle engines. Advance booking is required, as this popular activity tends to sell out quickly.
How to Get to Lake Mburo National Park
By Road
Lake Mburo National Park is approximately 3-4 hours from Kampala (228 km). It is accessible through several gates:
- Kyanyanshara Gate – Leads to Mihingo Lodge
- Akagate Gate
- Sanga Gate – Leads to Rwakobo Rock Lodge
By Air
For those preferring a quicker journey, scheduled and charter flights are available from Entebbe International Airport and Kajjansi Airfield. Operators include:
- Aero Link Uganda
- Fly Uganda
Flights should be booked in advance, as availability depends on the number of passengers (minimum of 4 travelers required).
Best Time to Visit Lake Mburo National Park
The best time to visit is during the dry months of December to February and June to October. During this period:
- Roads remain dry and easy to navigate.
- Wildlife is easier to spot, as animals gather around water sources.
However, the park is open year-round, and visitors can enjoy exciting activities regardless of the season.
Why Book with Trek Africa Expeditions?
At Trek Africa Expeditions, we prioritize your safety, comfort, and satisfaction. We follow strict World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines to ensure a safe travel experience, especially in light of COVID-19. Our team is dedicated to creating memorable and hassle-free safari experiences for all travelers.