MBURO NATIONAL PARK
OVERVIEW
Lake Mburo National Park is a compact gem, located conveniently close to the highway that connects Kampala to the parks of western Uganda. It is the smallest of Uganda’s savannah national parks and underlain by ancient Precambrian metamorphic rocks which date back more than 500 million years. It is home to 350 bird species as well as zebra, impala, eland, buffalo, oribi, Defassa waterbuck, leopard, hippo, hyena, topi and reedbuck. Together with 13 other lakes in the area, Lake Mburo forms part of a 50km-long wetland system linked by a swamp. Five of these lakes lie within the park’s borders. Once covered by open savanna, Lake Mburo National Park now contains much woodland as there are no elephants to tame the vegetation. In the western part of the park, the savanna is interspersed with rocky ridges and forested gorges while patches of papyrus swamp and narrow bands of lush riparian woodland line many lakes. Park at a Glance Size: 370km2 Altitude: 1,220m – 1,828m above sea level Wetland habitats comprise 20% of the park’s surface The parks’ precarious past has seen wildlife virtually eliminated several times: firstly in various attempts to rid the region of tsetse flies, then to make way for ranches, and finally as a result of subsistence poaching. 20% of the park’s entrance fee is used to fund local community projects such as building clinics and schools. |
Serengeti National Park
Best Time To Visit
December to March: Calving season is the ideal time to witness the birth of thousands of young animals. It’s also when predators are most active, hunting vulnerable newborns.
April to June: The migration begins, as large herds of wildebeest, zebras, and other species start moving northward across the Serengeti in search of fresh grazing lands.
July to October: Peak migration season, especially notable for the dramatic and dangerous crossings of the Mara River, where many animals fall prey to crocodiles.
November: Short rains signal the return of the herds to the Serengeti after months away, revitalizing the landscape and offering another spectacular wildlife display.
HOW TO GET THERE
By Road: The Serengeti is accessible by a roughly 7-hour scenic drive from Arusha, allowing travelers to pass through various landscapes, including villages and countryside along the way. It’s a great option for those who enjoy road trips and want to see more of the Tanzanian landscape before arriving at the park.
By Air: For a faster, more convenient option, regular flights operate from Arusha to multiple airstrips within the Serengeti. These flights significantly reduce travel time, offering stunning aerial views of Tanzania’s wildlife and landscapes.
TIPS FOR VISITORS
- Pack Smart: Bring lightweight, comfortable clothing suitable for varying temperatures, along with a hat, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
- Stay Hydrated: Make sure to carry plenty of water, especially during extended game drives to stay refreshed.
- Respect Wildlife: Always observe animals from a safe distance and avoid interacting with or feeding them.
- Follow the Rules: Listen carefully to your guide and follow all park regulations for both your safety and the preservation of the environment.
