LAKE MBURO NATIONAL PARK

Lake Mburo National Park is the closest savannah reserve to Kampala. The park is centered on a series of swamp-fringed lakes that serve as a bird catchment area as well. The park covers an area of 256 sq. km and is situated in Western Uganda between Masaka and Mbarara 3-4 hours from Kampala; it is the only park to contain an entire lake, it also consists of four other smaller lakes.

The myth that is told of the origin of Lake Mburo tells the tale of two brothers, Kigarama and Mburo who lived in a large valley. One night, Kigarama is said to have dreamt that they were in danger. When he awoke the next morning, he told his younger brother Mburo of his dream and said they should move. Mburo ignored this advice, but Kigarama wisely moved up into the hills. The valley flooded and a lake was formed, drowning Mburo. Today the lake is named after him, and the hills are called Kigarama after his brother.

Wildlife in the park includes; Hippos and crocodiles that can be seen grazing on cool mornings. The surrounding papyrus swamps hide the beautiful sitatunga, a very special antelope with narrow, elongated hooves which allow them to move freely on marshy land, impala, the uncommon topi, the last surviving population of eland, klipspringer and other antelopes, Zebra and buffalo graze these peaceful acres, and over 357 bird species.

Accommodation is available at park headquarters, where chalets are available for single or double occupancy. Meals are available or visitors may carry their own food that the camp staff can help to prepare. Hurricane lamp lighting and warm water bucket for bathing are provided. Campfire may be organised on request. The Lake View Hotel, Agip Motel in the nearby town of Mbarara are modern locally owned hotels, all rooms have private facilities. The hotels have bars, restaurants; Lake View has a terrace, swimming pool and sports centre. The hotel's own small lake is often surrounded by marabou storks and sacred ibises.


Mantana Camp is an upgrade facility found with in the park. It has stunning vistas over 3 lakes; it offers good service whilst retaining the authentic safari spirit. Each tent has twin beds and a bathroom with a verandah placed so as to take advantage of stunning African sunsets. The dining room is built on stilts so as to offer guests bird's eye views across the treetops to the lakes.