Lake Mburo has many plants and animals, with beautiful views and cultural history. It is located near Mbarara in western Uganda and Kampala, the capital city, in the central region. Lake Mburo was first made a controlled hunting area in 1933.
Later, in 1963, it became a game reserve. The Bahima people, known as the Banyakore group, who raised cattle, lived there for a long time. In 1983, during the Obote government, the area became a national park.
This was done not only to protect the wildlife but also to punish the Banyankore people, who were said to support rebels against the government.
Because of this, the pastoralists fought back as the government took their land without paying them. This led to a violent event called Operation Bonanza, where about 300,000 people were killed.
After that, the grazing land outside the park was divided into small plots for farming.
Uganda’s tourism suffered a lot during the COVID-19 pandemic. Visitors from other countries were not allowed to enter, and many were afraid to travel because of the risk of catching the disease.
Today, the pandemic has ended, and Uganda welcomes many tourists each year. Lake Mburo is one of the top places in Uganda that attracts visitors all year.
People come because of its lakes, animals, landscapes, and green plants covering the area.
The park’s story is linked to two brothers called Mburo and Kigarama who lived in the low savannah plains. The place was once called Kaaro Karungi.
One night, Kigarama had a dream that their land would flood. He told his brother Mburo, but Mburo did not believe him. Because dreams were very important in ancient Africa, Kigarama left and settled on the hills.
Later, the dream came true, and Mburo and his land were flooded, which gave the name Lake Mburo. Some may think this story is a myth, but many people believe it is true.
Lake Mburo offers many activities for visitors to enjoy. These include game drives, boat cruises, horse riding, nature walks, and camping.
Some activities can be paid for when you arrive at the park, making your trip easy and fun.
The park is home to over 68 mammals, except lions and elephants, and many colorful birds that live on the hills. These birds include the rare shoebill stork, African finfoot, pelicans, herons, and many more.
Some of the places to stay near Lake Mburo are:
- Montana Tented Camp
- Lake Mburo Safari Lodge
- Mihingo Lodge
- Eagle’s Nest Lodge
- Rwakobo Rock
- Rwonyo Rest Camp
Tourist attractions include:
- Rubanga Forest
- Lake Mburo
Tourism in Lake Mburo is a beautiful experience you will always want to remember.
