Lake Mburo National Park known as the Whispers of the wild is located in southwestern Uganda, is one of the country’s most scenic and diverse wildlife parks. While it is famous for its rich biodiversity, tranquil lakes, and rolling savannah, it is also one of the few places in Uganda where you can enjoy an exciting and unique horseback safari experience. This offers visitors on a Uganda Safari a chance to explore the park’s landscape from a completely different perspective.
About Lake Mburo National Park
Lake Mburo National Park is the smallest of Uganda’s savannah parks, covering an area of about 370 square kilometers. Despite its size, it is home to a variety of wildlife, including zebras, impalas, buffaloes, bushbucks, waterbuck, topis, and giraffes, as well as over 300 species of birds. The park also boasts a variety of landscapes, such as wooded savannahs, wetlands, forests, and grasslands, providing a beautiful backdrop for horseback riding.
Unlike many other national parks in Uganda, Lake Mburo allows for more interactive and intimate experiences with wildlife due to its varied terrain and smaller size. Horseback riding provides a perfect opportunity to experience the park’s beauty and wildlife in a quiet, close-up manner.
Lake Mburo is possible to explore on your way to or from the most popular parks that is Bwindi home to mountain gorillas and Queen Elizabeth that harbors the Tree climbing Lions.
Horseback Riding Safari in Lake Mburo National Park
- Overview of the Experience
- Horseback safaris in Lake Mburo offer a calm and thrilling way to explore the park. Whether you are a seasoned rider or a beginner, the safari experience caters to all levels. The rides are typically led by knowledgeable and experienced guides, ensuring safety and a rewarding experience throughout.
- As you ride through the park, you’ll encounter various wildlife in its natural habitat, often at a closer proximity than you would on a traditional vehicle safari. Unlike the noise of a safari jeep, the quietness of horseback riding allows for a more peaceful, uninterrupted connection with the surroundings.
- What You’ll See
- Wildlife: Lake Mburo is home to a large population of zebras, which are often seen grazing in the savannah grasslands. Other wildlife commonly encountered during horseback rides includes giraffes, buffaloes, antelopes, and waterbucks. The park’s open plains and wetlands make it ideal for spotting animals from horseback.
- Birdlife: The park is a birdwatcher’s paradise with over 300 species of birds. You might spot species like the African Fish Eagle, Great White Pelicans, Crowned Cranes, and Lilac-breasted Rollers during your ride, particularly near the park’s lakes and wetlands.
- The Riding Experience
- Terrain: The park’s diverse landscapes provide a fantastic variety of experiences. The savannah grasslands, woodlands, and wetlands offer unique perspectives as you ride through them. You’ll likely trot along the shores of Lake Mburo itself, offering beautiful views over the water and its wildlife inhabitants.
- Trail Riding: You will ride along specific trails, which may pass through dense bush, open savannah, and scenic hills. The guides will help navigate the terrain, ensuring a smooth ride as you pass near waterholes and salt licks where wildlife gathers.
- The Horses: The horses used for these safaris are well-trained and well-suited for the park’s terrain. They are familiar with the wildlife and environment, ensuring a comfortable ride even for beginners. You’ll receive basic instruction on how to control and ride your horse before setting off.
Guided Horseback Safari Options
Horseback safaris in Lake Mburo are usually organized by the Mihingo Lodge, located on the outskirts of the park, which offers guided horseback riding safaris. The lodge provides well-trained horses and offers various safari options:
- Morning and Afternoon Rides:
- The morning rides typically start early, around 6:30 am, when the weather is cooler and the animals are most active. This allows for optimal game viewing and a peaceful ride as the park wakes up.
- Afternoon rides take place around 3:00 pm, when the sun is less intense, and the animals are beginning to move around in search of food and water.
- Day Rides:
- For those looking for a longer adventure, full-day rides can be arranged. These extended rides take you further into the park, where you’ll enjoy more time with nature and the opportunity to stop at scenic spots for a picnic or a rest.
- Tailored Rides:
- Mihingo Lodge also offers the option to tailor rides based on your preferences. If you’re an experienced rider, you can request more challenging routes or longer durations. If you are a beginner, they will ensure a calm, easy pace with clear instructions on how to ride safely.
What to Bring and Safety
- Appropriate Footwear: It’s recommended to wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes or boots. Riders should avoid sandals or open-toed shoes for safety reasons.
- Comfortable Clothing: Opt for long pants and light, breathable clothing to protect yourself from the sun, bugs, and brush.
- Sun Protection: Wear sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the sun. Even during cooler months, the sun can be strong.
- Safety Gear: Helmets are provided, ensuring that you have the necessary protection while riding.
- Water: Bring a bottle of water to stay hydrated, especially during longer rides.
Best Time to Go Horse Riding in Lake Mburo National Park
Horse Riding can be done all year round though the best time to go horseback riding in Lake Mburo National Park is during the dry season, which runs from June to September and December to February. During these months, the weather is more favorable for outdoor activities, and the trails are more accessible. Additionally, wildlife is easier to spot as animals tend to gather near water sources, making for more exciting safari experiences.
However, riding during the rainy season (March to May) can also be enjoyable for those seeking a quieter, more serene experience, with the added bonus of lush greenery and fewer tourists.
Book your Horse Riding in Lake Mburo National Park with Big Apes Africa Safaris today!
