The Jewel of Uganda
Murchison Falls National Park, situated in the northwestern region of Uganda, is a marvel of natural beauty and ecological diversity. As the largest national park in Uganda, covering approximately 3,893 square kilometers, it offers a plethora of attractions and activities that cater to adventurers, nature lovers, and wildlife enthusiasts alike.
Murchison Falls National Park, established in 1952, is named after the dramatic Murchison Falls, where the mighty Nile River explodes through a narrow gorge before plunging into a placid stream. The park is bisected by the Victoria Nile, creating a dynamic landscape that ranges from dense rainforests in the south to expansive savannahs in the north. This diverse topography supports a wide array of flora and fauna, making it one of the most biodiverse regions in Africa.
Top Safaris To Murchison Falls
3 Days Murchison Falls Safari
Explore the savanna plains of Murchison falls national park for amazing wildlife sightings and the Murchison falls.
5 Days Chimpanzee and Wildlife
Explore the savanna plains of Murchison falls and trek through the tropical forest of Kibale and encounter the chimpanzees
7 Days Primates and Wildlife
Spot the Big 5, Trek the rhinos in Ziwa, enjoy boat cruises in Murchison falls and Queen Elizabeth and trek chimps and gorillas
Attractions in Murchison Falls
The Falls
The centerpiece of the park is undoubtedly Murchison Falls. Also known as Kabalega Falls, this spectacular waterfall is where the Nile River narrows from 50 meters to just 7 meters wide, crashing down approximately 43 meters. The sheer force of the water creates a thunderous roar and a misty spray that can be felt from a distance. The best views of the falls can be accessed via a boat ride on the Nile or by a hike to the top of the falls, each offering unique perspectives of this natural wonder.
Wildlife
Murchison Falls National Park boasts an impressive array of wildlife, making it a premier destination for game viewing. The park is home to over 76 species of mammals, including the iconic Big Five: elephants, lions, leopards, buffaloes, and rhinos. Visitors can also encounter giraffes, hartebeests, oribis, Uganda kobs, and waterbucks. The park’s northern sector, with its rolling savannah and Borassus palms, is particularly renowned for its abundant game.
Birds
For bird watchers, Murchison Falls National Park is a veritable paradise, harboring over 450 bird species. The diverse habitats, from riverine forests to swamps and savannahs, attract a wide variety of birds. Notable species include the shoebill stork, African fish eagle, Goliath heron, and the rare dwarf kingfisher. The Nile-Lake Albert Delta is especially popular among birding enthusiasts for its high concentration of waterbirds.
Attractions in Murchison Falls
Game Drives
Game drives are a quintessential part of the Murchison Falls experience. These guided tours, typically conducted in the early morning or late afternoon, offer visitors the chance to see wildlife up close in their natural habitat. The Buligi Game Tracks, situated between the Victoria and Albert Niles, are particularly famous for their high density of game and provide excellent opportunities for spotting predators like lions and leopards as well as large herds of herbivores.
Boat Safaris
A boat safari on the Nile is a must-do activity, offering a unique vantage point for observing wildlife. These excursions take visitors to the base of Murchison Falls, passing pods of hippos, basking crocodiles, and a myriad of bird species along the way. The boat trip provides excellent photographic opportunities, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset.
Chimpanzee Tracking
Budongo Forest, located in the southern part of the park, is renowned for its chimpanzee population. Chimpanzee tracking in Budongo offers an exhilarating experience as visitors trek through the dense forest in search of these fascinating primates. The guided tours also provide insights into the forest’s ecology and the behavior of its inhabitants.
Sport Fishing
The Nile River within Murchison Falls National Park is a prime location for sport fishing. Anglers can try their hand at catching the Nile perch, one of the largest freshwater fish in the world, as well as catfish and tiger fish. Fishing is typically done from designated spots along the riverbanks or from boats, and both catch-and-release and catch-and-keep options are available.
Best Time to Visit Murchison falls
The best time to visit Murchison Falls National Park is during the dry seasons, which typically run from December to February and June to September. During these months, wildlife is easier to spot as animals congregate around water sources, and the weather is more favorable for game drives and other outdoor activities. However, the park is accessible year-round, and each season offers unique experiences.
Getting There
Murchison Falls National Park is accessible by both road and air. The park is approximately a 5-6 hour drive from Kampala, Uganda’s capital. The journey by road offers scenic views and the opportunity to visit other attractions along the way. For a quicker option, domestic flights are available from Entebbe International Airport to airstrips within or near the park, such as Pakuba Airstrip or Chobe Airstrip.