Horse Riding in Lake Mburo National Park, Uganda

Horse riding in Lake Mburo National Park Uganda is a thrilling and very adventurous activity. The activity is carried out in only one national park which is Lake Mburo National park in whole of Uganda is located in the Western region of Uganda. Horse riding can also be called Equestrianism. Horse riding activity is one of the top activities done in the park. Travelers get close to the wildlife species while riding on horses, this gives you chance to closely see timid animals. The activity is so peaceful and totally different from the usual game drives.

The park is one of the smallest national parks in Uganda yet it harbors various species including over 350 bird species including the African Fin foot, pre-historic Shoebill stork, Saddle-billed stork, African Fish eagle, Brown-chested wattle plover, Yellow warbler. The park also has over 68 mammals including Warthogs, Bushbuck waterbuck, Crocodiles, Topi, Impala, Jackals, Hyenas, Leopards, Elands, and Zebras among others. Primates can also be seen during horse riding activities including Vervet monkeys, and Oliver baboons. Horse riding is privately arranged by a luxurious lodge Mihingo Safaris which partnered with Lake Mburo national park to offer the activity. The lodge is situated close to the park boundary. The lodge has been operating horse riding since 2008 however it started carrying out horse riding inside the park in 2009. Horse riding is an organized activity that has a program manager that governs them during the day and at night, horses ride along zebras and Impalas during the day grazing on fresh grass and they come back to the stable boxes to take supper in the evening. The horses come back to the stables only in the evenings to be protected from hyenas. In total Mihingo safaris lodge has 14 horses in its stable however, they initiated the horse ride tour running 7 horses and some ponies which originated from Kenya.

A maximum of 6 participants is allowed per trip. The rides are adjusted according to someone’s riding ability. For beginners and inexperienced riders, we recommend that you walk. If you are an advanced rider there are lovely stretches for trotting and cantering. For more experienced riders we recommend a 4 – 5-hour ride which takes you up to the grassy Warukiri range of hills that are situated in the middle of the park. There are high and stunning views of 360 degrees surrounding hills and valleys in the park. On the furthest, you will find a water hole where you can just see a herd of Buffaloe drinking water and enjoying the cool air. The park has a magnificent view of 9- 12 lakes surrounding it and this changes the whole feeling about Lake Mburo National park as it is spectacular. Your weight has to be measured before you are accepted to ride so kindly do not feel offended if they check yours. Most horses carry not more than 85kgs although a few can carry up to 100kgs. Weighing you helps to prevent damaging the backs of horses and prevention of rapid death of the horses. For safety precautions helmets for riders of all sizes are provided, riding chops, and also English-style saddles are provided and they are used due to the landscape nature. The horse riders are advised to come wearing long trousers and strong shoes if possible. However, shoes with a slight heel are recommended. While horse riding you are accompanied by an experienced horse guide but in most cases there 2 guides accompanying each ride. Horse rides for Residents cost 25 USD for 1 hour, 70USD for 2 hours, 90USD for 3 hours, and for Non- Residents cost 60USD for 1 hour, 110 USD for 2 hours, and 130 USD for 3 hours. Jewel Safaris can organize a horse ride tour at Lake Mburo National Park for you and your loved ones if you contact us.