Overview
This Uganda wildlife safari is suitable for travelers looking for a somewhat short road trip, a wildlife tour taking them not so far from the main city, Kampala or towns like Mbarara. The 2 Days wildlife and adventure safari takes you to Lake Mburo national park , the nearest national park from Kampala and Entebbe in Uganda. The little savannah wildlife reserve boasts huge herds of antelopes and zebras plus a thriving population of giraffes. Spotting these wild animals is almost a guarantee. The park offers a chance to explore wildlife on a bike and get closer to the calm and lovely Rothschild giraffes and Burchell’s zebras.
Highlights
- Equator experience at Kayabwe
- The Boat cruise on Lake Mburo
- An Evening game drive
- Cycling around the park
Itinerary
Meet your safari driver in Kampala or Entebbe and once you get done with breakfast, you will set off for the road trip. Stop over at Kayabwe for a photography moment at the equator monument and water experience. Continue with the journey through Mbarara, and have an enroute lunch, and thereafter head to the jetty to board the boat for the launch cruise. It is a 2 hours boat cruise offering spectacular views of Lake Mburo, wildlife around the lake including hippos and crocodiles plus a variety of bird species with a chance to spot the shoebill stork at the wetland section of the waterbody.
After the boat cruise, you will go for an evening game drive and later on retire to the lodge for dinner and an overnight stay.
Meal plan: Lunch and dinner
While early grazers are up for breakfast, you will also rise and take a cup of coffee. Then head to the starting point for the day’s activity, cycling, where you will meet your ranger guide who ensures that you are safe during the adventure. Cycling in Lake Mburo will give you a chance to get close to wildlife, have clear views, and take the best shots of the giraffes, zebras and antelopes such as the eland and many others.
You will get to the hilly landscapes and enjoy the spectacular views of the park and the surrounding distant areas. Thereafter, return to the lodge, meet your safari guide, and drive out of the park to Kampala. You will have an en-route lunch and arrive in Kampala in the late afternoon or evening.
Optional activity of cycling is horseback riding or guided nature walk
Meal plan: breakfast & lunch
End of tour
Includes/Excludes
Includes
- Accommodation:
- 1 night in a comfortable lodge or camp within Lake Mburo National Park or nearby, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner (full board).
- Transportation:
- All ground transportation in a 4x4 safari vehicle with a professional, English-speaking guide for the duration of the trip.
- Park Fees:
- Entry fees for Lake Mburo National Park.
- Game Drives:
- Morning and afternoon game drives in Lake Mburo National Park to spot a variety of wildlife such as zebras, impalas, buffaloes, giraffes, and more.
- Boat Ride on Lake Mburo:
- A boat ride on Lake Mburo for a chance to see aquatic wildlife like hippos, crocodiles, and numerous bird species.
- Nature Walk:
- A guided nature walk with a park ranger, offering a unique opportunity to explore the park on foot and learn about its flora and fauna.
- Services of a Professional Guide:
- The safari includes the services of a knowledgeable and experienced guide who will provide commentary on wildlife, culture, and conservation.
- Meals:
- Full board (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during your stay in the park.
- Bottled Water:
- Complimentary bottled drinking water during the trip.
- Emergency Medical Evacuation Insurance:
- Travel insurance for emergency evacuation in case of any medical incidents (if needed).
Excludes
- International Flights:
- Flights to and from Uganda (to Entebbe International Airport) are not included.
- Visa Fees:
- Visa costs for entering Uganda (if applicable).
- Personal Expenses:
- Items such as souvenirs, personal shopping, laundry, phone calls, and any extra meals or drinks not included in the itinerary.
- Alcoholic Beverages:
- Alcoholic drinks and soft drinks beyond what is provided with meals or by the accommodation.
- Additional Activities:
- Extra activities, such as cultural visits, horseback riding, or boat rides beyond the included tour, are not part of the package.
- Travel Insurance:
- Personal travel insurance is not included. It’s recommended to arrange travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, cancellations, and evacuations.
- Tips and Gratuities:
- Tips for the guide, lodge staff, or park rangers are not included in the safari package.
- Medical Costs:
- Any medical expenses incurred during the safari (e.g., treatment for illnesses or injuries) are not covered.
FAQs for 2 Days Lake Mburo Wildlife and Adventure Trip
What is included in the 2 Days Lake Mburo Wildlife and Adventure Trip?
- The trip includes accommodation (full board), transportation in a 4×4 safari vehicle, park entry fees for Lake Mburo National Park, a boat ride on Lake Mburo, game drives, a nature walk with a park ranger, and the services of a professional guide.
2. What kind of wildlife can I expect to see in Lake Mburo National Park?
- Lake Mburo National Park is home to a variety of animals, including zebras, impalas, buffaloes, giraffes, topis, waterbucks, and hippos. The park is also known for its birdlife, with over 350 species, including pelicans, eagles, and hornbills.
3. What is the best time to visit Lake Mburo National Park?
- The best time to visit is during the dry seasons from June to September and December to February, when wildlife is easier to spot, and roads are more accessible. However, the park is open year-round, and each season has its unique offerings.
4. Is the boat ride on Lake Mburo included in the trip?
- Yes, a boat ride on Lake Mburo is included in the itinerary. The boat ride provides a great opportunity to see hippos, crocodiles, and various bird species while enjoying scenic views of the lake.
5. How strenuous is the nature walk in Lake Mburo National Park?
- The nature walk is not too strenuous but involves walking in the park for about 1-2 hours. A ranger guide will accompany you, and you’ll explore the park on foot, gaining insights into the flora and fauna. It’s a leisurely walk, but you should wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for outdoor conditions.
6. Can I do a night game drive in Lake Mburo National Park?
- Night game drives are not typically included in this 2-day trip. However, Lake Mburo National Park offers night game drives as an optional activity in some packages. You can inquire with the tour operator if you are interested in adding this activity.
7. Is the trip suitable for children?
- Yes, the 2 Days Lake Mburo Wildlife and Adventure Trip is suitable for families with children. The park is known for its less intense wildlife experiences compared to other parks, and the nature walk and game drives can be enjoyed by children, though it’s important that they are old enough to walk and enjoy the activities.
8. What should I bring for the safari?
- You should bring comfortable, light-colored clothing, sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and insect repellent. Sturdy shoes are recommended for the nature walk and any walking activities. A camera (without a flash) to capture the wildlife is also a great idea, as well as any personal medications or items you might need.
9. How far is Lake Mburo National Park from Entebbe or Kampala?
- Lake Mburo National Park is approximately 3.5 to 4 hours’ drive from Entebbe or Kampala, covering a distance of about 240 kilometers (150 miles).
10. Can I extend my trip to visit other parks or attractions?
- Yes, you can extend your trip to visit other attractions like Bwindi Impenetrable National Park for gorilla trekking, Queen Elizabeth National Park for game drives and boat cruises, or Kibale National Park for chimpanzee tracking. You can consult with the tour operator to customize your itinerary.
11. Do I need to get vaccinations before going to Uganda?
- Yes, it is recommended to consult with your doctor or a travel clinic about recommended vaccinations for Uganda. Yellow fever vaccination is mandatory for entry into Uganda, and other recommended vaccines include hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and malaria prophylaxis.
12. Is tipping included in the safari price?
- No, tips for your guide, rangers, and lodge staff are not included. It’s customary to tip for good service, and the amount depends on personal preference and group size. Tips are greatly appreciated by the local staff.
13. Are there any restrictions for children or elderly participants?
- There are no strict age restrictions, but children should be old enough to handle the nature walk and enjoy the safari activities. The park is relatively accessible, but those with limited mobility might find certain activities more challenging.
14. What happens if I don’t see any animals during the safari?
- While wildlife sightings are highly likely in Lake Mburo National Park, sightings can never be guaranteed as animals roam freely in their natural habitat. The professional guide will do their best to maximize your chances of seeing wildlife.
15. Is travel insurance necessary for this safari?
- Yes, it is highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, cancellations, and evacuation in case of unforeseen circumstances.