Drones in Lake Mburo – Lake Mburo is located in western Uganda and is home to over 68 mammal species and 350 bird species. The park’s management uses drones to monitor wildlife such as leopards without disturbing them.
Drones also capture aerial views of the park, including its lakes, hills, and savannah, helping to show animal habitats and support tourism through virtual content.
Drones are also used to count animals like zebras, impalas, and elands, especially in areas with thick vegetation. They help track zebra groups and buffalo herds, which are often large.
Drones have thermal cameras that can detect human heat, which helps rangers find illegal activities like poaching, even at night or in dense bush.
However, visitors are not allowed to fly drones in Lake Mburo unless they have a special permit from the Uganda Wildlife Authority. These permits are only given for research, conservation, or filming purposes, such as making documentaries. They are not allowed for fun or personal use.
To apply for a drone permit, visitors must first get clearance from the Civil Aviation Authority and the Uganda Defence Forces. This clearance is then submitted to the Uganda Wildlife Authority.
A proposal is also required, explaining why you want to use the drone, along with its details such as camera quality, model, weight, and flying range.
You must also list the planned flight dates, times, and areas. After the request is approved, you pay a fee and wait for the permit to be processed. Mihingo Safari Lodge is one of the few places that offers a safe and private space for guests who are allowed to fly drones.
If a visitor is found flying a drone in Lake Mburo without permission, it may be taken away. Drones can disturb animals because of their noise, causing them to hide or run away.
This can affect wildlife viewing. Drones can also get lost in the park and pose a danger to animals. For safety, drones should not be flown near airports, homes, or crowded areas.
Drones in Lake Mburo are used by park staff to monitor wildlife, their habitats, and illegal activities. Visitors may use drones only for research, conservation, or filming, and only with official permission.
