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Murchison Falls National Park Travel Guide
Welcome to Murchison Falls National Park, home to the world’s most powerful waterfall and Uganda’s largest and oldest national park. Spanning 5000 square kilometers in northwestern Uganda, this iconic park offers a stunning mix of wildlife, breathtaking landscapes, and unforgettable safari experiences.
Our complete guide provides everything you need to know before planning your trip—from the park’s top attractions and activities to the best times to visit, how to get there, and where to stay. Murchison Falls is teeming with wildlife, including elephants, buffaloes, lions, leopards, crocodiles, and nearly 450 bird species. You’ll also find diverse ecosystems with aquatic species, butterflies, and reptiles.
Whether you’re considering a 2-day escape or a classic 3-day safari, Murchison Falls is a favorite for short wildlife safaris in Uganda. Read on to discover expert travel tips, sample safari packages, and how to plan the perfect adventure to this unforgettable destination.
Where is Murchison Falls National Park
Murchison Falls National Park (MFNP) is one of Uganda’s top safari destinations and the largest of its 10 national parks. It spans approximately 3,893 square kilometers and stretches across the districts of Nwoya, Buliisa, Kiryandongo, and Masindi. The park is situated along the shores of Lake Albert and forms part of the greater Murchison Falls Conservation Area, which also includes the Bugungu and Karuma Wildlife Reserves. Conveniently located about 282 kilometers from Kampala, Uganda’s capital, Murchison Falls National Park can be reached in roughly 4 to 5 hours by road, making it an accessible and rewarding adventure for wildlife lovers.
History & Background of Murchison Falls National Park
Murchison Falls National Park has a rich and fascinating history that dates back to the mid-19th century. The area was first extensively explored in 1863–1864 by British explorers Sir Samuel and Florence Baker. It was during this expedition that they discovered the mighty waterfall and named it “Murchison Falls” in honor of Roderick Murchison, then President of the Royal Geographical Society.
In the early 20th century, between 1907 and 1912, the region saw major changes after sleeping sickness swept through the area, prompting mass evacuations. This left around 13,000 square kilometers of land largely uninhabited. Recognizing the ecological value of the area, the colonial government established the Bunyoro Game Reserve in 1910, protecting the southern region of the Nile.
The official designation of the area as a national park came in 1952, following the enactment of the National Parks Act by Uganda’s British colonial administration. This legislation led to the formal creation of Murchison Falls National Park, making it Uganda’s oldest and now largest protected area.
Since then, Murchison Falls National Park has become one of Uganda’s top safari destinations, attracting thousands of tourists each year who come to experience its dramatic waterfalls, rich biodiversity, and unforgettable wildlife encounters.
Attractions in Murchison Falls National Park
The Murchison Falls
Murchison Falls is not just a highlight of the national park—it’s one of Africa’s most powerful and spectacular natural wonders. Located at the point where the Victoria Nile explodes through a narrow cleft in the Rift Valley escarpment, the falls showcase the sheer force of nature in breathtaking fashion. As the river funnels through the 7-meter-wide (23 feet) gap in the rock, it crashes down over 43 meters (141 feet) into a turbulent pool below, creating a thunderous roar that can be heard from kilometers away.
The energy and mist generated at the base of the falls often produce vivid rainbows, adding to the dramatic scenery and making it a photographer’s dream. Visitors can view the falls from several vantage points: take a boat cruise upstream for a close look at the base, or hike to the top of the falls for sweeping panoramic views and the chance to feel the ground tremble beneath your feet from the force of the water.
Historically, the falls hold both colonial and cultural significance. Sir Samuel Baker named them in 1864 after Roderick Murchison, but they are also known locally as Kabalega Falls, in honor of the great king of Bunyoro. During the era of Idi Amin in the 1970s, the name was officially changed to Kabalega Falls, though the original name—Murchison Falls—remains more widely used today.
The falls are a key ecological feature, as they divide the Victoria Nile into two distinct sections: the calm stretch that flows through the park’s savannah and the wild, white-water section below the falls. This makes the area around Murchison Falls a rich habitat for wildlife and bird species, making it an essential stop for anyone exploring Uganda’s natural beauty.
Wildlife
Murchison Falls National Park is one of Uganda’s top safari destinations, renowned for its rich and diverse wildlife. The park is home to over 76 mammal species, including four of Africa’s iconic “Big Five”: lions, leopards, elephants, and buffaloes. While rhinos are not found inside the park, a visit to the nearby Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary completes the Big Five experience, making Murchison an ideal choice for a comprehensive Uganda wildlife safari.
On game drives across the savannah plains, visitors often spot Rothschild giraffes, Uganda kobs, Jackson’s hartebeest, warthogs, and bushbucks. Along the banks of the Nile River, hippos, Nile crocodiles, and waterbucks are commonly seen, especially during the popular boat safaris to the base of the falls.
The park also shelters a variety of primates, including olive baboons, black-and-white colobus monkeys, red-tailed monkeys, and patas monkeys, often seen in the forested areas. With such a diverse mix of wildlife and ecosystems, Murchison Falls offers one of the most thrilling and rewarding safari experiences in East Africa.
Bird Species
Murchison Falls National Park is a birdwatcher’s paradise, boasting over 450 recorded bird species, making it one of the best birding destinations in Uganda. The park’s diverse habitats—ranging from riverine forests and savannahs to swamps and woodlands—support a wide variety of resident and migratory birds.
One of the park’s most sought-after species is the shoebill stork, a rare and prehistoric-looking bird often found in the swampy areas along the Nile, especially during boat safaris. Other notable water birds include the Goliath heron, African jacana, saddle-billed stork, pelicans, kingfishers, and African fish eagle.
In the woodland and savannah areas, birders can expect to see Abyssinian ground hornbills, Northern carmine bee-eaters, black-bellied bustards, and spotted morning thrushes. Forested sections of the park are home to colorful species like white-crested turacos, chestnut-crowned sparrow-weavers, and Puvel’s illadopsis, which is near-endemic to this region.
Hotpots to Visit in Murchison Falls National Park
Budongo Forest
Budongo Forest, located just on the southern edge of Murchison Falls National Park, is one of Uganda’s premier chimpanzee trekking destinations. Covering approximately 825 square kilometers, Budongo is home to over 600 chimpanzees, including four habituated families available for tourism. It’s one of the most accessible chimp trekking locations in Uganda, only about a 4-hour drive from Kampala, making it ideal for short safaris or weekend trips.
Chimpanzee tracking in Budongo typically follows a 115 km network of forest trails, offering a rich and immersive experience through the tropical rainforest. Along the way, trekkers often encounter a variety of other wildlife, including nine primate species, 24 types of small mammals, over 465 plant species, and 270 butterfly species. The combination of rich biodiversity and relatively easy access makes Budongo an excellent choice for primate enthusiasts.
Kaniyo Pabidi Forest
Just northeast of Budongo lies Kaniyo Pabidi Forest, located about 8 km from the Kichumbanyobo Gate of Murchison Falls National Park. Managed with support from the Jane Goodall Institute, Kaniyo Pabidi is another hotspot for chimpanzee trekking and primate viewing. The forest hosts a range of primates including olive baboons, red-tailed monkeys, black-and-white colobus monkeys, and nocturnal species like pottos. In addition to primates, the forest boasts over 360 bird species, making it a prime destination for bird watchers, especially when combined with a Murchison Falls safari.
Top Activities at Murchison Falls National Park
Murchison Falls National Park offers a diverse range of activities that cater to both adventure seekers and nature lovers. From thrilling game drives to serene boat cruises, here’s a deeper look at the top experiences to enjoy in this iconic Ugandan safari destination:
1. Game Drives
Explore the park’s rich savannah landscapes on morning or evening game drives. These excursions provide excellent opportunities to spot the Big Four—lions, leopards, elephants, and buffaloes—as well as Rothschild’s giraffes, Jackson’s hartebeests, warthogs, hyenas, and Uganda kobs. The northern sector of the park, especially around Paraa and the Buligi game tracks, is the best area for wildlife viewing.
Pro Tip: Morning drives offer the best chance to see predators when they are still active.
2. Boat Safaris on the Nile
A boat cruise along the Victoria Nile is one of the most iconic activities in Murchison Falls. This guided journey takes you upriver toward the base of the dramatic Murchison Falls, where you’ll witness the Nile forcefully squeezing through a 7-meter gorge before plunging 43 meters below.
Along the way, expect to see large pods of hippos, Nile crocodiles, waterbucks, and a rich variety of birdlife—including fish eagles, kingfishers, and bee-eaters. Some cruises also head downstream to the Nile Delta, where you might spot the rare shoebill stork.
3. Hike to the Top of the Falls
This short but breathtaking hike offers a unique vantage point of the world’s most powerful waterfall. After arriving by boat or vehicle at the base, a guided trail leads you up through lush forest to the top of the falls. The views from above are spectacular, with mist spraying into the air and rainbows forming in the sunlight.
Highlight: Feel the ground tremble beneath your feet as you stand near the edge of the roaring gorge.
4. Bird Watching
With over 450 bird species recorded, Murchison Falls is a top birding destination in Uganda. The varied ecosystems—ranging from riverine forests and wetlands to savannah—support an array of species, including the shoebill stork, Goliath heron, Abyssinian ground hornbill, saddle-billed stork, and secretary bird.
Best birding spots include:
The Nile banks during boat cruises
Budongo and Kaniyo Pabidi Forests
Savannah areas in the northern section of the park
5. Chimpanzee Trekking in Budongo Forest
Just south of Murchison Falls lies Budongo Forest Reserve, one of Uganda’s top chimpanzee tracking destinations. Home to over 600 chimpanzees, Budongo offers treks led by expert guides who help you track and observe these intelligent primates in their natural habitat.
The forest is also home to several other primate species and hundreds of bird and butterfly species, making it a great all-around nature walk.
6. Sport Fishing
Murchison Falls is also a prime location for sport fishing, particularly along the Nile below the falls. Anglers can try their hand at catching Nile perch, some weighing over 100 kg, as well as catfish and tigerfish.
Fishing Methods: Catch-and-release, using live bait or artificial lures.
Permits: A sport fishing permit is required, and guided fishing trips can be arranged through the park or tour operators.
Tip: The best fishing spots are at the base of the falls, accessible by boat or on foot, with guides available for both novices and experienced anglers.
How to get to Murchison Falls National Park
Being a popular visited national park in Uganda, there are two options of getting to Murchison Falls National Park which is either by road or by air. Here is how to use the two options;
By Air;
To get to Murchison Falls park by air, you will have to book achartered flight from Entebbe International Airport or at the airfield in Kajjansi. Flights to the park take clients to either Pakuba, Bugungu, or Chobe Airfields. Before you decide to book a chartered flight remember to consider your accommodation facility since the airfields are in different sectors of the park. Aerolink runs most of the chartered flights to the park and therefore booking with them or through a tour operator is convenient.
By Road;
The common way of getting to the park is by a road trip to the park by 4×4 safari vehicle. From Kampala, it’s about 282km to the park on a 4-5 hours drive. If you arrive through Entebbe International Airport, you will be driven by your driver guide through Kampala on the Kampala- Gulu highway. If you are connecting to the park from the northern end of the country, you take the Gulu-kampala highway and get to the park through the Chobe, Tangi, and Wankwar gates.
Best time to visit Murchison Falls National Park
Amazingly this is one of the best parks to visit all year round. The park is situated in a region that has a moderate kind of climate almost all year round. However, just like the best time to visit Uganda, the most preferable time of visiting the park is during the dry season in the months of June – September, and December – February. The reason why the dry season is referred to as the best time to visit the park is that during this time the rain totals are low and therefore roads are easier to drive on. The most important thing with visiting during the dry season is that the grass is short and therefore wildlife can easily be seen and photography very clear. However, the park does not experience any extreme weather conditions that can stop a safari to Murchison Falls National Park. The park is open all year round and is good for a visit at any time of the year.
Accommodation in Murchison Falls National Park
Budget Accommodations in Murchison Falls
Chobe Safari Lodge
Located in the Murchison Falls National Park, this Five Star lodge is undoubtedly the gem in Uganda’s crown of tourism destinations. The breathtaking panoramic views, coupled with the sounds of the River Nile’s magnificent rapids, set the scene for an adventure that will impress even the most discerning of visitors. Chobe Safari Lodge offers a unique opportunity to sample the wildlife, birds, flora, and fauna; all in an area of the park that has yet to be discovered. This area of the park is ideal for fishing and accessible via the Chobe airfield.
Paraa Safari Lodge
Paraa Safari Lodge is located in the northwest of Uganda overlooking one of nature’s best-kept secrets, the River Nile. Paraa Safari Lodge is that one lodging facility that offers a unique blend of comfort, relaxation, and adventure. Each of the rooms is a haven of style and serenity, complete with a balcony and a private bathroom. If you would love to have a hot air balloon experience, then spending a night at Paraa lodge is a wise option as they work with Dream Balloons to make this experience possible. A hot air balloon experience includes bush breakfast and lasts for about 1 hour.
Mid Range Accommodations in Murchison Falls
Pakuba Safari Lodge
Pakuba safari lodge is nestled in the Eastern Bank of the Albert Nile overlooking the spectacular River Nile. The location of the lodge offers panoramic views of the mighty River Nile in a surrounding that is home to several wildlife species like giraffes, elephants, antelopes, and occasionally leopards. The beautifully furnished rooms offer comfort, style, and serenity.
Murchison River Lodge
Murchison River Lodge is a mid-range facility located on the southern bank of the River Nile with comfortable and relaxing facilities. The Lodge is suited with en-suite thatched cottages all with solar fans and a USB port. The thatched safari tents each have private facilities and comfortable camping tents already set up. A bar, restaurant, swimming pool are part of what keeps those who choose to stay at the lodge relaxed
Budget Accommodations in Murchison Falls
Red Chilli Rest Camp
Red Chilli Rest Camp is located just 500 meters from Paraa ferry which is the ferry crossing point for vehicles going for game drives in the park. The lodge is on the southern bank of the River Nile and has a great budget facility and starting point for most of the safari activities in the park. Red Chilli Rest Camp has great facilities that include a fully stocked bar, restaurant, solar hot water systems, modern toilets, and a bonfire is lit in the evening.
Heritage Safari Lodge
At Heritage Safari Lodge, you will nestle and see, hear, taste, smell, and touch the wonderful sights and fantastic landscape of the renowned Murchison Falls National Park. This is a budget accommodation facility that offers a warm welcome as well as very scenic views of the park. The cottages offer an experience of the traditional settings of Acholi land
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Where is Murchison Falls National Park located?
It’s in northwestern Uganda, about 282 km (5–6 hours by road) from Kampala, spanning the districts of Nwoya, Masindi, Kiryandongo, and Buliisa.
2. How much does it cost to visit?
Entrance fees are $45 for foreign non-residents, $35 for residents, and UGX 20,000 for East African citizens; other activities like boat safaris and chimp trekking have extra fees.
3. Can I see the Big Five?
Yes—four of them (lions, leopards, elephants, buffaloes); rhinos are at nearby Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary.
4. What’s the best time to visit?
Dry seasons—June to September and December to February—offer the best wildlife viewing and road access.
5. How do I get there?
You can drive from Kampala (5–6 hours) or take a domestic flight to airstrips like Pakuba, Chobe, or Bugungu.
6. Where can I stay?
Lodges range from budget (Red Chilli Rest Camp) to mid-range (Pakuba Safari Lodge) and luxury (Paraa Safari Lodge).
7. What animals will I see?
Expect elephants, giraffes, lions, hippos, leopards, crocodiles, kobs, hartebeest, and over 450 bird species.
8. What should I pack?
Bring light clothing, hiking shoes, insect repellent, sunscreen, binoculars, a camera, a hat, and reusable water.
9. Is chimp trekking available?
Yes, in Budongo Forest Reserve, part of the larger conservation area, about 4 hours from Kampala.
10. Can I go fishing?
Yes, sport fishing for Nile perch and catfish is popular near the base of the falls with a permit and guide.
