Lake Mburo National Park, located in Uganda’s Kiruhura District, is a hidden gem that showcases the best of East Africa’s natural beauty. Known for its diverse wildlife, serene lakes, and sprawling savannahs, the park is a vibrant ecosystem full of life. However, despite its potential to boost tourism, Lake Mburo faces significant infrastructure challenges that could limit its growth.
Covering 370 square kilometers, Lake Mburo National Park is home to iconic species like giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, and Uganda’s only population of endangered eland antelopes. Its shimmering lakes and lush acacia woodlands create a stunning backdrop for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers. The park’s compact size allows visitors to spot a wide variety of animals in just a few hours, making it a favorite for short safaris.
“Lake Mburo is a must-visit destination,” said Allen Kenzarwe, a tour guide at the park. “Visitors can see many animals in a short time, and the game drives are incredibly rewarding. But with better infrastructure, we could attract even more tourists.”
Tourism is a key part of Uganda’s economy, contributing around Shs 6 trillion ($1.6 billion) annually before the COVID-19 pandemic. National parks like Lake Mburo play a vital role in this sector, generating revenue through entrance fees, accommodations, and safari tours. The park also provides jobs for local communities, including tour guides, rangers, hotel staff, and craft vendors.
However, poor infrastructure is holding the park back. Tourists and operators face challenges like bad roads, unreliable electricity, and limited internet access. During peak seasons, the park’s few lodges often can’t meet demand, forcing some visitors to stay elsewhere.
“Bad roads are a major problem,” Kenzarwe said during an agro-tourism workshop in Rushere. “No one wants to get stuck in the park. If the government improves the roads and encourages more investment in lodges, tourism here could grow significantly.”
Tourism stakeholders are calling for urgent action to address these issues. Improved roads, reliable electricity, and better internet connectivity are essential to boosting tourism revenue and enhancing visitor experiences.
“Lake Mburo has so much to offer, but we’re losing potential income due to poor infrastructure,” said a senior tourism official who asked to remain anonymous. “Strategic investments in roads and facilities would unlock the park’s full potential and position Uganda as a top travel destination.”
Currently, the park has fewer than a dozen lodges, most located near Lake Mburo. Developers are now exploring opportunities to expand eco-friendly campsites and boutique lodges, which align with global trends toward sustainable tourism.
Local leaders and conservationists stress the need to balance development with environmental preservation. Lake Mburo’s wetlands and grasslands are crucial for wildlife migration and climate resilience. Proposals for new investments emphasize low-impact designs, renewable energy, and community-led tourism initiatives.
“This isn’t just about tourism—it’s about livelihoods,” said James Mugisha, a craft vendor from Rushere. “More visitors mean more income for our families. We urge the government to act quickly.”
With its proximity to Kampala (just a 4-hour drive) and its location along the scenic “Kigezi Highlands” route, Lake Mburo National Park is well-positioned to attract international tourists. However, experts warn that competing destinations in Kenya, Tanzania, and Rwanda are moving ahead with infrastructure upgrades.
“Lake Mburo is one of Uganda’s best-kept secrets,” said Kenzarwe. “But secrets don’t stay hidden forever. If we invest now, this park could become Africa’s next must-visit safari destination.”
As Uganda works to rebuild its tourism industry after the pandemic, the future of Lake Mburo National Park—and its role in supporting local communities—depends on timely and strategic infrastructure improvements. With its stunning scenery, diverse wildlife, and untapped potential, Lake Mburo remains a hidden gem that could drive Uganda’s tourism industry to new heights.