Lake Mburo National Park, a 260-square-kilometer reserve in western Uganda, is a bird-watching paradise for global travelers. Located 240 kilometers southwest of Kampala, this park’s mix of savannah, woodlands, and five lakes supports over 350 bird species, offering a vibrant avian experience in a compact wilderness.
Highlights include the iconic African fish eagle, its piercing call echoing over Lake Mburo, and the elusive shoebill, a seasonal visitor to the wetlands. The red-faced barbet and crested francolin thrive in acacia scrub, while waterbirds like the malachite kingfisher and pied kingfisher dazzle along the lakeshores. Migratory species arrive during wet seasons (March-May and October-November), adding diversity to the year-round residents.
Birding is best around Rwonyo Camp or along the Lakeside Track, accessible via game drives or guided walks. Early mornings (6:00-9:00 AM) yield peak activity and bring binoculars and a field guide (Birds of East Africa) for optimal spotting. The dry seasons (June-September and December-February) offer clearer trails and concentrated birdlife near water, though wet seasons enhance the park’s lush backdrop.
Reachable by a 3 to 4 hour drive from Kampala or a 1-hour flight to Mbarara plus a short transfer, Lake Mburo pairs birding with zebra and impala sightings. Its accessibility and variety make it an unmissable stop for birders seeking Uganda’s feathered treasures.