Birding in Lake Mburo National Park takes place within the biodiverse ecosystem of the park, the park area being covered in water attracts many birds from several regions, and the conservation area is strategically located in western Uganda in the Kiruhura district. It is the smallest of Ugandan savannah national parks and it is the nearest to the city centre of Kampala, it is a quick gateway point more so for travellers who have less time and would like to visit a national park. The rich biodiverse ecosystem boats angelic hills, woodlands, forest, and savannah vegetation with an underneath alignment of Precambrian metamorphic rocks dating back to over 500 million years ago. It is managed by the Uganda Wildlife Authority.
The bird list of Uganda is impressive count with over 1000 species recorded to date, most of these are found in protected conservation areas, and 300 bird species are found in Lake Mburo National Park. Examples of bird types include, African fin foot, malachite kingfisher, Egyptian goose, Africa wattled lapwing, barefooted go away bird, Africa scops owl, blue breasted kingfisher, mosque swallow, papyrus gonoleks, red-faced barbet, saddle billed stock, stripped kingfisher, shoe bill stock, grey crowned crane, African fish eagle, ross’s turaco, double toothed barbet, yellow-throated tinkerbird, piapiac, Red-chested sunbird, blue breasted kingfisher, pink backed pelicans, herons, southern ground hornbill, scared ibis among others.
Birdwatching in Lake Mburo National Park is rewarding along the swampy areas, Rubanga forest, around Lake Mburo, Rwonyo area at the park headquarters, and salt lick region, it is done through the well-distributed trails of the park beginning at 6:30 am East African time with assistance from a Uganda wildlife ranger. To enjoy the experience, it is important to bring binoculars, a birder guidebook, hiking boots, waterproof covers for phones and cameras, long-sleeved shirts and trousers, insect repellants, and any other items of personal nature.
Birding in Lake Mburo National Park is best done during the wet season, in April, May, September, October, March, and November, there are many species found here including migratory types, most of the bird species are forest and savannah some of which are endemics of the great Albertine rift valley region. Along the walk is an exceptional view of wildlife, Examples of species to see include zebras, bushbucks, waterbucks, and klipspringer. Birding can also be done during the dry season as each time is different while in the park.
Other things to do in the park include game drives which are conducted in the morning, afternoon, and evening times, it is also possible to do night drives while in the park, boat cruise experiences, guided nature walks, and horseback riding to mention a few. Lake Mburo National Park can easily be accessed from Kampala or Entebbe, it takes approximately 5 hours drive to arrive at the destination. There is available accommodation in the park ranging from the best budget to Luxury. Examples of facilities include Kigarama Safari Lodge, Rwakobo Rock, and Mihingo Lodge.
In conclusion, birding in Lake Mburo National Park can be combined with other activities of the national park like boating experiences and game drives.