UWA Student Centre and Hostel

In the heart of Uganda’s pristine wilderness, the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) extends a warm welcome to students, offering an affordable and comfortable haven for those embarking on study tours, internships, and research endeavors. The UWA Student Centre and Hostel in Lake Mburo ensures that your academic pursuits are supported by excellent accommodation, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the captivating landscapes and wildlife of this remarkable region.

Activities to Enhance Your Stay at UWA Student Centre and Hostel

Walking Safaris:

Lake Mburo National Park is open to all visitors eager to embark on guided nature walking safaris. These immersive experiences are led by armed park ranger guides who ensure your safety while providing invaluable insights into the park’s diverse ecosystem. Beginning at Rwonyo, the park center, these guided walks take you to the salt lick, one of the prime locations for observing a wide array of wildlife.

Safari Game Drives:

With 68 mammal species and an impressive 350 bird species thriving within its boundaries, Lake Mburo is a wildlife enthusiast’s dream. Witness a growing giraffe family and a thriving hippo population as you traverse this compact yet richly biodiverse park. For an even more comprehensive experience, consider taking an optional boat ride, granting you the opportunity to observe crocodiles and enjoy unparalleled birdwatching from the water. Note that while a safari vehicle is not currently available onsite, arrangements can be made to provide one if you don’t have your own, subject to availability.

Night Game Drives:

Lake Mburo stands as one of the premier destinations for nighttime wildlife encounters. Venture into the park after dark to search for elusive creatures such as leopards, porcupines, and white-tailed mongooses. The night air is filled with the enchanting sounds of hyenas, zebras, buffalos, and bush babies, making for a memorable and unique experience.

Horseback Riding Safaris:

Lake Mburo National Park offers a distinctive opportunity to view wildlife from horseback. This captivating activity sets the park apart from others in Uganda. Under the guidance of trained staff and park rangers, you can embark on a horseback ride at Mihingo Lodge. These rides typically last from 1 to 3 hours, allowing you to explore the park’s savannah and witness its magnificent wildlife from a unique perspective.

Fishing on Lake Mburo:

Fishing enthusiasts can indulge in another exciting activity offered at Lake Mburo. 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. The preferred fishing spot at Mburo is Mazinga. Travelers interested in fishing safaris should bring their own equipment and obtain permits from Uganda Wildlife Authority.

Community Walks:

A lodge near Lake Mburo National Park is dedicated to preserving the local traditions and cultures of the Bahima people. Through a partnership with a local family, visitors staying at the lodge or nearby have the opportunity to gain insight into Bahima life. Learn about the art of making local ghee while engaging with women who share stories of their traditions and culture. Depending on the timing of your tour, you may even have the chance to milk Ankole cows, further immersing yourself in this cultural experience.

Boat Cruise on Lake Mburo:

Enhance your Lake Mburo adventure with a boat cruise, a rewarding activity offering captivating views of the park’s flora and fauna. During the cruise, you’ll have the chance to spot crocodiles, hippos, and a myriad of bird species, including African fish eagles, pelicans, kingfishers, herons, cormorants, rare African finfoots, and hammerkops. Dry seasons often see various wildlife frequenting the water areas, including buffalos and antelopes.

Birding Safaris:

Lake Mburo National Park boasts exceptional birdwatching opportunities. The park’s boat cruises provide a unique opportunity to observe a diverse array of bird species, including crocodiles and hippos. You may encounter African fish eagles, pelicans, kingfishers, herons, cormorants, rare shoebills, and hammerkops. Additionally, during dry seasons, various wildlife species frequent the water areas, adding to the birding experience.

Biking Safaris:

Experience the park and its surroundings like never before with bicycle tours around Lake Mburo National Park. These guided tours take a maximum of one hour and promise remarkable wildlife sightings. Uganda Wildlife Authority rangers lead the way, navigating specific areas known for optimal wildlife viewing. While some terrain challenges, with hilly and sloped areas, may be encountered, the bike trails guarantee an unforgettable experience.

For more information or to book your stay at UWA Student Centre and Hostel, as well as activities in Lake Mburo National Park, contact Trek Africa Expeditions. Your academic journey and exploration of Lake Mburo’s wonders await.