Murchison Falls National Park in Uganda – Wildlife, Activities and Travel Guide
Murchison Falls National Park is Uganda’s largest and oldest national park, a true jewel of African wilderness. Covering about 3,840 square kilometers, the park is located in northwestern Uganda and is split by the mighty River Nile. It is famous for the dramatic Murchison Falls, where the Nile squeezes through a narrow 7-meter gorge before plunging 45 meters into the “Devil’s Cauldron,” creating one of the most powerful waterfalls in the world. This breathtaking attraction, combined with diverse wildlife, bird species, and adventure activities, makes Murchison Falls National Park one of the most visited safari destinations in Uganda.
Wildlife in Murchison Falls National Park
The park boasts a rich variety of wildlife, making it a top safari destination in East Africa. Visitors can encounter elephants, buffaloes, giraffes, lions, leopards, hyenas, hippos, and crocodiles along the Nile. The park is also home to over 76 mammal species and one of the largest populations of Rothschild’s giraffes in the world. Antelope species like Uganda kobs, hartebeests, and oribis roam freely across the savannah plains.
Bird lovers will find Murchison Falls a paradise. With more than 450 bird species, including the rare shoebill stork, goliath heron, African fish eagle, and secretary bird, the park is one of the best birding destinations in Uganda. The Nile Delta is particularly famous for shoebill sightings.
Activities in Murchison Falls National Park
Game Drives
Game drives on the northern bank of the Nile offer the best chances of spotting big game, including lions hunting Uganda kobs. Morning and evening drives are the most rewarding, with excellent wildlife photography opportunities.
Boat Cruises on the Nile
One of the highlights of visiting Murchison Falls is the boat cruise to the bottom of the falls. This journey provides a close-up view of hippos, crocodiles, and elephants drinking on the riverbanks. Birdwatchers also enjoy spotting kingfishers, bee-eaters, and African jacanas along the way. The delta boat trip towards Lake Albert is another rewarding excursion for wildlife lovers.
Hiking to the Top of the Falls
For the adventurous, hiking to the top of Murchison Falls is an unforgettable experience. The hike offers panoramic views of the Nile and the thunderous falls crashing through the gorge.
Chimpanzee Trekking in Budongo Forest
Budongo Forest Reserve, which is part of the greater Murchison Falls Conservation Area, is one of the best places in Uganda to track chimpanzees. The forest also has diverse bird species and towering mahogany trees.
Sport Fishing
Murchison Falls is famous for sport fishing, especially for Nile perch and catfish. Fishing can be done along designated spots on the Nile with prior permits.
Best Time to Visit Murchison Falls National Park
The park can be visited all year round, but the best time is during the dry seasons. From December to February and June to September, wildlife is easier to spot as animals gather around water sources. The wet seasons (March to May and October to November) make the park lush and green, with excellent birding opportunities, though some roads may become muddy and challenging.
Getting to Murchison Falls National Park
The park is accessible both by road and air. By road, it takes about 4–5 hours from Kampala, Uganda’s capital. The main entry gates are Kichumbanyobo, Bugungu, and Tangi. Alternatively, chartered flights from Entebbe or Kajjansi airfield to Pakuba, Chobe, or Bugungu airstrips provide quicker access.
Accommodation in Murchison Falls National Park
Murchison offers a wide range of safari lodges and camps to suit different budgets. Luxury lodges like Paraa Safari Lodge and Chobe Safari Lodge provide top comfort, while mid-range options like Murchison River Lodge and Pakuba Safari Lodge offer great value. Budget travelers can also find affordable campsites and bandas within and around the park.