Accommodation in Lake Mburo National Park: Top Lodges for Every Budget

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Rio Akram Miiro

Date: May/12/2025

Lake Mburo National Park is the nearest national park to Kampala, Uganda’s capital. It is home to zebras, antelopes, giraffes, and over 300 bird species. The park is peaceful and compact, making it ideal for a short safari. There are many accommodation options inside and around the park, offering comfort for all types of travelers.

Why Stay in or Near Lake Mburo National Park?

Lake Mburo offers more than game drives. Visitors can explore on foot, by bike, or on horseback. Staying in or near the park gives you better access to these experiences. Many lodges are located close to watering holes or hills, giving you clear views of animals without leaving your room.

Top Accommodation Options in Lake Mburo National Park

Luxury Lodges

Mihingo Lodge

Mihingo Lodge is a luxury lodge located inside the park on top of a rocky hill. It is built with natural materials and offers great views of the plains. The lodge has a large swimming pool that overlooks a waterhole where animals come to drink.

Activities include horse riding, guided walks to nearby communities, and bush biking. Staff are helpful and well-trained. This lodge is ideal for travelers who want peace, privacy, and wildlife at their doorstep.

Mantana Tented Camp (Lake Mburo Camp)

Mantana Camp is a small luxury tented lodge on Rwamahungu Hill inside the park. The tents sit on wooden decks and have large bedrooms, private bathrooms, and verandas with lake views.

The camp is quiet and surrounded by animals like zebras, warthogs, and buffalo. It also has a dining area, lounge, and bar. This lodge is best for travelers looking for a comfortable and intimate stay.

Mid-Range Lodges

Rwakobo Rock

Rwakobo Rock is a mid-range lodge located 1 km from the Nshara Gate. It has 8 cottages and a family unit. Rooms can be arranged as single, double, or triple.

Guests can enjoy biking, walking safaris, and night game drives. There is a campfire each evening and a watering hole near the restaurant. The location just outside the park means you save entrance fees on your first night.

Arcadia Cottages

Arcadia Cottages is 2 km from the Rwonyo park headquarters. It offers 8 self-contained cottages and a central lodge with a restaurant and raised viewing deck.

The lodge is close to the lake, which makes it easy to join boat trips. Visitors often see hippos and crocodiles during the cruise. The evenings are peaceful, with drinks by the fire and animals grazing nearby.

Budget and Camping Options

Eagle’s Nest Lodge

Eagle’s Nest Lodge is a budget-friendly lodge on a hill near the park. It has safari tents with verandas and eco-toilets. Showers are filled upon request.

Meals are cooked on wood fire in large African pots. The views from this lodge are wide and clear. It is perfect for travelers who want a low-cost stay with a strong African feel.

Lake Mburo Safari Lodge

Lake Mburo Safari Lodge is a semi-luxury option located inside the park. It offers cottages, a family unit, a honeymoon house, and a campground.

The cottages are built on wooden platforms with grass-thatched roofs. Campers can bring their own tents or rent safari tents. The campsite has toilets, showers, electricity, and a restaurant.

Rwonyo Rest Camp (UWA)

Rwonyo Rest Camp is managed by the Uganda Wildlife Authority. It offers basic bandas and tents. Visitors can also camp at the nearby Mazinga campsite. This is one of the most affordable options and is great for travelers who want to stay inside the park on a tight budget.

What Activities Can You Do at These Lodges?

  • Horseback safaris to view animals up close

  • Walking safaris guided by park rangers

  • Biking tours around the park and nearby areas

  • Boat cruises on Lake Mburo to see hippos, crocodiles, and birds

  • Night game drives to spot nocturnal animals

  • Cultural visits to learn about Ankole traditions and farming

Tips for Booking and Park Entry

  • Book early, especially during holidays or peak months

  • Lodges inside the park may include park fees in their packages

  • Staying outside the park, like at Rwakobo Rock or Eagle’s Nest, can reduce costs

  • Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) manages Rwonyo Rest Camp and Mazinga Camp

  • Some lodges offer lower rates through tour operators

Final Thoughts

There are many choices for accommodation in Lake Mburo National Park. Whether you want luxury, comfort, or a basic tent, the park has an option for you. Staying in or near the park brings you closer to wildlife and gives you more time to enjoy activities. Book your stay early and get ready for an unforgettable safari.