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Murchison Falls National Park

Charming Experiences

Murchison Falls National Park

Murchison Falls National Park, established in 1952, is a gem of Uganda’s natural and historical heritage. At its core is the awe-inspiring Murchison Falls, where the Nile River narrows to 8 meters and crashes into a gorge, creating a thunderous roar and a rainbow spectacle. The park’s diverse landscapes range from savannas and riverine woodlands in the north to dense forests in the south, home to over 144 mammal species and 556 bird species.

Murchison Falls has also been a cinematic backdrop, famously featured in “The African Queen” with Humphrey Bogart. The park is a haven for wildlife, including elephants, giraffes, buffaloes, hippos, and crocodiles, and has attracted notable visitors like Winston Churchill and Ernest Hemingway.

As Uganda’s largest and oldest conservation area, Murchison Falls National Park epitomizes the country’s dedication to preserving its natural and cultural treasures.

Direction

How To Get To Murchison Falls National Park

Visitors can get to Murchison Falls National Park from the south by driving from Kampala/ Entebbe on the Kampala-Gulu road through Masindi and onto the park. Visitors can also get to Murchison Falls National Park when travelling from Kibale Forest National Park or Kidepo Valley National Park.

You can as well fly into Murchison Falls National Park given that Aerolink operates daily afternoon flights into the park. Aerolink lands at two airfields inside the park – Pakuba and Bugungu. Charter flights can also be operated to Murchison Falls National Park.

Uforgettable Experience

Things to do and see in Murchison Falls National Park

Boat cruise to bottom of Murchison Falls

The boat cruise to the base of Murchison Falls is a must-do experience. This 3-hour cruise along the Nile offers stunning views of Nile crocodiles, hippos, elephants, buffaloes, and various birds, including the African Fish Eagle.

Game Drives

Murchison Falls National Park is the largest game park in Uganda and a favourite of many. During a typical game drive, visitors can expect to see a large number of antelope species.

Delta Cruise on the Nile

The delta cruise takes visitors from Paara to the delta where the Nile engorges into Lake Albert. The cruise is a must for keen birders as the birdlife is prolific. A boat trip to the delta leads you through papyrus swaps filled with wildlife and birds.

Top of the Falls Hike

Visitors can access the top of the falls two ways – make the short drive from the southern bank at Paara or get off the launch cruise once it gets to the bottom of the falls.

Chimpanzee Trekking – Budongo Forest Reserve

isitors can trek to see chimpanzees in the Budongo and Kaniyo Pabidi forest reserves within Murchison Falls National Park. Budongo Forest, on the park’s southern side, is notable for its diverse wildlife, with over 800 chimpanzees, 465 plant species, and 366 bird species.

Birding the Royal Mile – Budongo Forest Reserve

The Royal Mile in Budongo Forest Reserve lies at the edge of the Albertine Rift and is attached to Murchison Falls National Park in the south. Named for its popularity as a traditional leisure stopover for Uganda’s royals.

Nature Walks

Explore the captivating Rabongo and Budongo forests for a nature walk filled with birdwatching and primate encounters. In the Chobe area, experienced game rangers guide you safely through diverse terrain, offering valuable insights into the park’s wildlife, trees, and birds, making each hike an educational adventure.

Rhino Tracking – Zziwa Rhino Sanctuary

Visitors can easily access Zziwa Rhino Sanctuary on the way to or from Murchison Falls National Park. The sanctuary, located 170 km northwest of Kampala, is dedicated to breeding and reintroducing rhinos into Uganda’s wild, with over 20 southern white rhinos currently residing there.

Fishing

Murchison Falls National Park offers anglers the best backdrop with the thundering roar of one of the most powerful water falls in the world cascading nearby. You fish in one of the most beautiful and picturesque spots in the world.

Camping: Embracing Wilderness Serenity

While the comfort of lodges within Murchison Falls National Park beckons, many adventurers seek the raw allure of camping amidst the untamed wilderness. Kaniyo Pabidi forest stands as a prime location, offering campers an unparalleled opportunity to commune with nature.

Cultural Exploration

After days of exhilarating encounters with wildlife and fellow travelers, a cultural excursion to the Boomu Women’s Group offers a refreshing change of pace. Nestled amidst the communities surrounding the park, this vibrant collective invites visitors to delve into the rich tapestry of local traditions and customs.