Horse riding in Uganda: horseback safaris at Lake Mburo
Lake Mburo is a park where you can see wildlife on horseback. Rides inside the park have been offered since November 2009. You move at the pace of the horse through open savanna and light woodland, and you can look for zebras, impalas and waterbuck from the saddle. Sightings are never guaranteed, but a horse is a quiet way to move through the bush.
Rides are adapted to the rider's ability. Beginners ride at a walk, and the longer routes are for more experienced riders. A group is limited to 6 guests with at least one guide. Helmets and chaps are provided, and the saddles are English saddles. Park entry is paid on top of the ride, at $40 per adult per 24 hours for foreign non-residents in the UWA tariff for July 2024 to December 2026. Check the current amount before you book.
Our picks: horseback safaris at Lake Mburo
The day trip suits a first ride in the park. The four-day trip also adds a boat trip, cycling and a walking safari.
Hand-picked tours, booked through GetYourGuide. Prices are indicative starting prices in US dollars (as of October 2026). Tap a tour for live availability and the current price in your currency.
4-day Lake Mburo safari with boat, bike and horse
- Boat, cycling and horse riding
- Ranger fees for walking safari
- Park entry included
Four days in a 4x4 with mid-range accommodation and half or full board. International flights and visa are extra.
Check availability →Lake Mburo day trip with a horse riding safari
- Horse riding safari
- National park fees
- 4x4 with English-speaking guide
A long day trip by 4x4 with a safety briefing and a ride inside the park. Confirm weight limits and your date with the operator before you book.
Check availability →Lake Mburo safaris with riding and more
Safaris that fit a ride into the trip, with live prices and availability.
Who can ride at Lake Mburo
Experience, weight and group size.
| Rider | What to expect |
|---|---|
| Beginner | A guided ride at a walk. The guide adapts the route to your level. |
| Some experience | A ride matched to your ability, with a shorter or longer route to choose from. |
| Experienced rider | The long route toward the Warukiri hills, about 4 to 5 hours. |
For most travelers who have ridden a few times, a ride of one or two hours is a good balance of comfort and wildlife. Choose the long route only if you are comfortable in the saddle for several hours.
Weight limits and what you wear
Confirm both before you travel.
Weight limits
The general limit is 100 kg. Most horses carry up to 85 kg, and the strongest horse up to 95 kg. Whether you can ride, and on which horse, is confirmed for each person individually, so do not book a ride on the strength of one figure.
Equipment
A helmet and chaps are provided, and the saddles are English saddles. Bring long trousers, closed shoes with a heel and sun protection.
Group size
A ride takes at most 6 guests, with at least one guide.
Dates
Ask for a date early and confirm it again a few days before you arrive.
What a horseback safari costs
Ride price and park entry.
The price of a ride depends on its length and is set by the operator. In 2024 a ride cost $80 for one hour, $120 for two hours, $140 for three and $160 for four hours for foreign guests, with park entry extra. Check the current price before you book, ask for it in writing and ask what it includes.
On top of the ride, plan for the entry fee of $40 per adult for 24 hours. Children aged 5 to 15 pay $20, and children under 5 enter free. A vehicle that brings you to the park is charged by size, from $40 for a saloon car with foreign plates. The park fees page gives every fee.
Where a horseback safari fits in your trip
Combine it with other activities.
A ride suits a day with a free morning. You can ride early, rest at midday and take the boat trip in the afternoon, or add a game drive the next day, as described on the safari page. If you want a quieter way to see the park on foot, the walking safari is the other option away from the vehicle. The park stands on the road between Kampala and the west, and for the next stage of a trip you can read about Queen Elizabeth National Park.
Horseback safari at Lake Mburo: frequently asked questions
Can beginners ride at Lake Mburo?
Yes. Rides are adapted to ability, and beginners ride at a walk. The longer routes are for more experienced riders.
What is the weight limit?
The general limit is 100 kg, most horses carry up to 85 kg and the strongest horse up to 95 kg. Confirm the horse and the date for each rider before you travel.
How long is a ride?
Ride lengths vary. The long route toward the Warukiri hills takes about 4 to 5 hours and is for more experienced riders.
Do I need my own riding gear?
Helmets and chaps are provided and the saddles are English saddles. Bring long trousers, closed shoes and sun protection.
How much does a ride cost?
The price depends on the length and the operator. In 2024 a ride cost from $80 for one hour to $160 for four hours, with park entry extra. Check the current price before you book.
Where do the rides take place?
Inside the park, across open savanna and light woodland. The route depends on your level and the date.