Murchison Falls

Discover the Majestic Power of Murchison Falls National Park

Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda’s largest and oldest protected area, is a breathtaking destination where the mighty Nile River explodes through a narrow gorge to create one of the world’s most powerful waterfalls. This remarkable park offers a perfect blend of dramatic landscapes, abundant wildlife, and captivating natural beauty.
Whether you’re chasing the roar of the falls, tracking wildlife on a classic safari, or cruising down the Nile, Murchison Falls promises an unforgettable adventure with PackupGo Safari.

An Overview of Murchison Falls National Park

Established in 1952, Murchison Falls National Park covers 3,893 square kilometers, spanning the districts of Masindi, Buliisa, Nwoya, and Kiryandongo in northwestern Uganda. The park forms part of the Murchison Falls Conservation Area, which also includes the Bugungu and Karuma Wildlife Reserves.

The park is bisected by the River Nile, creating diverse ecosystems — from dense woodlands and riverine forests to open savannahs and swamps. The centerpiece is the Murchison Falls, where the world’s longest river is forced through a 7-meter-wide gorge before plunging 43 meters into the “Devil’s Cauldron,” producing a spectacular display of mist and thunder.

Wildlife and Nature

Murchison Falls is a haven for wildlife, boasting one of the highest concentrations of animals in East Africa. Game drives across the northern plains reveal a classic African safari scene.

Key species include:

• Elephants

• Lions

• Leopards

• Buffaloes

• Giraffes (the world’s largest population of Rothschild giraffes)

• Uganda kob, hartebeests, and oribis

• Hippos and crocodiles along the Nile River

The park also offers chimpanzee tracking in the nearby Budongo Forest Reserve, home to one of East Africa’s largest populations of wild chimpanzees.

Birdlife

With over 450 bird species, Murchison Falls National Park is a birdwatcher’s paradise. Notable species include:

• Shoebill stork (a must-see for bird lovers)

• Goliath heron

• African fish eagle

• Abyssinian ground hornbill

• Malachite kingfisher

• Grey-crowned crane (Uganda’s national bird)

Boat cruises and nature walks offer some of the best birding opportunities in the region.

Activities and Experiences

1. Game Drives – Explore the open plains of the northern sector for classic safari encounters with lions, elephants, and giraffes.

2. Boat Cruise to the Falls – Sail up the Nile to the base of Murchison Falls, where hippos, crocodiles, and waterbirds thrive.

3. Top of the Falls Hike – A short, scenic hike offers breathtaking views of the falls and the thunderous power of the Nile.

4. Chimpanzee Tracking in Budongo Forest – Walk through ancient mahogany forests and meet our closest relatives in their natural habitat.

5. Delta Boat Trip – Cruise downriver to the Nile Delta, a haven for birdlife and the elusive shoebill stork.

6. Cultural Tours – Visit nearby communities to experience Ugandan culture, dance, and traditional crafts.

Accommodation

From luxury lodges perched above the Nile to intimate tented camps in the heart of the bush, Murchison Falls offers a variety of accommodation options:

• Luxury: Nile Safari Lodge, Paraa Safari Lodge, Bakers Lodge

• Mid-range: Murchison River Lodge, Pakuba Safari Lodge

• Budget: Red Chilli Rest Camp

All options offer stunning views, warm hospitality, and easy access to the park’s main attractions.

Best Time to Visit Murchison Falls National Park

The park is open year-round, but the best wildlife viewing occurs during the dry seasons when animals gather around water sources.

• Dry Season: December to February and June to September – Ideal for safaris and boat cruises.

• Wet Season: March to May and October to November – Beautiful green landscapes, fewer tourists, and great for birdwatching.

Travel Tips for Murchison Falls

• Getting There: About a 5–6 hour drive from Kampala or a short flight to Pakuba or Bugungu airstrips.

• Currency: Ugandan Shilling (UGX).

• Language: English and Swahili are widely spoken.

• Health: Yellow fever vaccination is required; malaria prevention is recommended.

• Park Hours: 6:30 AM – 6:30 PM daily.

• Safari Tip: Combine Murchison with Kibale or Queen Elizabeth National Park for a complete Ugandan safari experience.