Murchison Falls National Park
Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda's largest protected area, delivers a classic safari experience with a touch of adventure. Game drives across vast savannas teeming with elephant herds, giraffes, and predators like lions. Scenic boat cruise on the Nile, navigating towards the base of the thunderous Murchison Falls. Over 450 bird species. The nearby Ziwa Rhinos Sanctuary makes the Safari Big Five encounters possible.
Overview
Murchison Falls National Park, in northwestern Uganda along the Nile, is one of the most popular destinations for safari travelers in Uganda. Even though Uganda is most famous for gorilla trekking in mountainous rainforests, a safari extension to Murchison Falls National Park has much to offer. Located near Lake Albert in northwest Uganda, the park features a classic savannah safari where visitors can see elephants, hippos, giraffes, buffalos, lions, leopards, spotted hyenas, and occasionally cheetahs.
The park is divided in two by the Victoria Nile, which is also the park's greatest attraction. The Nile creates a spectacular waterfall, the Murchison Falls, as it tumbles along a rocky canyon and squeezes through a 7-meter-wide fissure. Visitors can enjoy river cruises to witness the dramatic falls, spot hippos, and crocodiles, and indulge in bird watching thanks to the park's bird list of over 500 species.
Murchison Falls National Park is also a sanctuary for several primate species, such as baboons, colobus monkeys, and chimpanzees. Visitors can track chimpanzees up close in their natural surroundings by heading to the park's Rabongo Forest or the neighboring Bundongo Forest Reserve. Murchison Falls is one of the few places in Africa where you can safely and easily observe chimps.
If you're interested in exploring Murchison Falls National Park, there are several packaged itineraries available. The park offers comfortable accommodation, and it's easy to combine your visit with other great Uganda destinations, such as Kibale Nationa Park for chimps trekking, Queen Elizabeth National Park or Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, where you can go gorilla trekking. Talk to us to learn about the best combinations.
Wildlife Safaris
Murchison Falls Wildlife Safari
- AvailableALL YEAR
- Duration4 DAYS
- From$915
Uganda Big Five Safari Adventure
- AvailableALL YEAR
- Duration6 DAYS
- From$1,673
Best of Uganda's Top Attractions
- AvailableALL YEAR
- Duration10 DAYS
- From$3,350
Activities in Murchison Falls National Park
Accommodation - Where to stay
Murchison Falls National Park offers diverse safari accommodation options, ranging from luxurious lodges with stunning Nile River views to comfortable tented camps and budget-friendly guesthouses, catering to various preferences and budgets. Here are some options for you.
Nile Safari Lodge
Nestled in the heart of Murchison Falls National Park, Nile Safari Lodge offers a serene and luxurious escape. Its spacious, well-appointed cottages provide breathtaking views of the Nile River. Guests can unwind on private balconies or explore the nearby wildlife with guided tours.
Chobe Safari Lodge
Set on the bank of the Nile, Chobe Safari Lodge offers a blend of comfort and nature. The lodge features a range of accommodation options, from luxurious rooms to camping sites, ensuring a stay suited to every traveler. It's strategically located near the park.
Pakuba Safari Lodge
A gateway to the wonders of Murchison Falls National Park, Pakuba Safari Lodge provides a cozy and comfortable retreat. Guests can enjoy comfortable rooms, the inviting swimming pool, and tantalizing dining options while surrounded by the beauty of the African wilderness.
Paraa Safari Lodge
Positioned atop the northern banks of the Nile, Paraa Safari Lodge is an oasis of tranquility. The lodge boasts stunning vistas of the river and is equipped with a pool, restaurant, and a variety of accommodation choices to suit different preferences.
Red Chilli Rest Camp
Offering an affordable and relaxed stay, Red Chilli Rest Camp caters to travelers seeking a budget-friendly experience in Murchison Falls National Park. Its campsite and bandas provide a cozy and communal atmosphere for guests to unwind after a day of exploring.
Sambiya River Lodge
Situated close to the park's entrance, Sambiya River Lodge offers a comfortable stay surrounded by natural beauty. With its thatched cottages and serene ambiance, guests can relish the sights and sounds of the wilderness.
Murchison River Lodge
Offering a unique blend of eco-luxury, Murchison River Lodge provides a stunning riverside. Visitors can revel in comfortable tented chalets or traditional thatched cottages while savoring the beauty of the river and the park.
Amuka Safari Lodge
Tucked away in the wilderness, Amuka Safari Lodge provides an intimate and exclusive stay. The lodge's lavish tents and serene surroundings offer guests a secluded and tranquil experience amidst nature.
Budongo Eco Lodge
Set within Budongo Forest, Budongo Eco Lodge offers an immersive jungle experience. Its eco-friendly cottages provide a cozy retreat for nature enthusiasts, allowing them to connect with the surrounding forest and its inhabitants.