Safari Activities to Do at Murchison Falls National Park – Explore Uganda’s Premier Wildlife Haven
Murchison Falls National Park is Uganda’s largest and oldest conservation area, offering a stunning blend of wildlife, landscapes, and river adventures. Spanning the northern region of the country and bisected by the Nile River, the park is an essential safari destination for anyone looking to witness dramatic waterfalls, encounter diverse animal species, and enjoy some of the best safari activities in East Africa.
Game Drives Through the Savannah Plains
One of the most iconic safari activities in Murchison Falls is the classic game drive. These early morning or late afternoon excursions take visitors across the open savannah of the northern sector, where sightings of elephants, giraffes, lions, buffaloes, and Uganda kobs are common. The chance to see a leopard lounging in a tree or a lion hunting its prey adds to the thrill of the drive. The tracks near Pakuba, Buligi, and the Delta area offer the highest concentrations of wildlife and scenic views of the Albert Nile.
Boat Cruises to the Base of the Falls
The boat cruise to the base of Murchison Falls is a must-do activity and one of the park’s most unforgettable experiences. The journey upstream along the Nile takes about two hours, with hippos bobbing in the water, Nile crocodiles basking on the banks, and elephants or waterbucks drinking at the edge. The climax of the cruise is the dramatic view of the falls, where the Nile River is forced through a narrow 7-meter gorge and plunges 45 meters in a thunderous roar. Photographers and nature lovers will be in awe of the sheer power and beauty of this natural wonder.
Delta Boat Cruise for Birdwatching and Shoebill Sightings
For birdwatchers, the delta cruise downstream to the Nile Delta is equally rewarding. This early morning trip, best done at sunrise, offers a tranquil and scenic experience as the boat glides toward Lake Albert. The delta is one of the best places in Uganda to spot the rare and prehistoric-looking shoebill stork. Other birds such as African fish eagles, saddle-billed storks, kingfishers, and bee-eaters thrive in this lush wetland habitat.
Hike to the Top of Murchison Falls
Adventure seekers can complement the boat trip with a guided hike to the top of the falls. Starting at Baker’s Point, the trail winds uphill with viewpoints offering breathtaking perspectives of the crashing waters and rainbows forming in the mist. The top of the falls allows visitors to stand just meters from where the river squeezes through the rock—a dramatic and humbling experience. It’s a great spot to reflect, take stunning photos, and appreciate the raw force of nature.
Chimpanzee Tracking in Budongo Forest
Located on the southern edge of the park, Budongo Forest is home to one of Uganda’s top chimpanzee tracking experiences. The forest is rich in biodiversity, featuring towering mahogany trees and over 360 bird species. Guided tracking in Kaniyo Pabidi gives visitors the chance to observe habituated chimpanzees as they forage, play, and interact in their natural environment. The experience is both educational and thrilling, offering insights into primate behavior and conservation.
Birdwatching Safaris Across Varied Habitats
Murchison Falls National Park is a birder’s paradise, with over 450 recorded species. Birdwatching can be done during game drives, nature walks, or boat safaris. Some of the park’s notable birds include the Abyssinian ground hornbill, goliath heron, black-headed lapwing, grey crowned crane, and of course, the elusive shoebill. The different habitats—from savannah grasslands and riverbanks to forested patches—offer diverse birding opportunities year-round.
Nature Walks and Community Encounters
For travelers looking for a slower pace, guided nature walks in Rabongo Forest and Kaniyo Pabidi allow for up-close encounters with nature. These walks focus on the smaller details often missed on game drives—medicinal plants, butterflies, monkeys, and endemic birds. Additionally, visiting nearby communities and cultural centers offers an opportunity to learn about the customs and traditions of the people living around the park. These experiences support local development and enrich your safari with cultural depth.