Murchison Falls National Park Uganda Safari

Murchison Falls National Park (MFNP), known locally as Kabalega National Park, is not just the largest and oldest protected area in Uganda; it is the most powerful centerpiece of an African safari. Here, the legendary Victoria Nile surges through a narrow 7-meter gorge before plummeting 43 meters, creating the world’s most spectacular single-drop waterfall.

Our mission is to ensure your journey to MFNP is not just a holiday, but a deeply enriching and sustainable adventure, led by the local specialists who know every trail and every pride of lions. We specialize in tailored, sustainable Murchison Falls Safaris that maximize wildlife viewing and respect the environment. Discover how to plan your trip, what to see, and why booking with a local safari partner makes all the difference.

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Murchison Falls National Park at a Glance: History and Conservation Success

Established in 1952, Murchison Falls National Park covers an expansive 3,893 square kilometers, forming the core of the wider Murchison Falls Conservation Area. The park is geographically defined by the magnificent Victoria Nile, which bisects it into the northern and southern sectors, creating diverse habitats including savannah grasslands, riverine forest, and vast wetlands

Key Facts:

• Established: 1952 (as a game reserve since 1926).

• Size: 3,893 sq km.

• Ecosystems: Savannah, woodland, riverine forest, wetlands.

• Conservation Status: The park is a critical Lion Conservation Unit.

Despite suffering severe poaching in the 1970s and 80s, the dedicated efforts of the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) have resulted in one of Africa’s most remarkable wildlife recovery stories. Today, MFNP boasts 76 species of mammals and over 450 bird species, making it an essential destination on Uganda’s safari circuit.

Planning Your Murchison Falls Safari: Logistics and Best Time to Visit

Effective planning is key to a memorable Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda experience. Here is the essential information on getting there, park fees, and the ideal timing for your visit

How to Reach Murchison Falls National Park

1. By Road (The Safari Route): The park is approximately a 4 to 6-hour drive (285–300 km) from Kampala or Entebbe. The journey is typically broken down into two main entry points:

• Southern Route: From Kampala/Masindi, entering through the Kichumbanyobo or Wankwar Gates. This is the common route, passing near the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary.

• Northern Route: Accessed from Gulu, entering via the Tangi or Chobe Gates. The Northern Bank is generally better for game viewing.

Expert Tip: While public buses reach Masindi town, a private 4×4 vehicle hired through a reputable tour operator is highly recommended for comfort, safety, and full access to the park’s tracks and ferry crossings.

2. By Air (The Quick Route): Chartered or scheduled flights depart from Entebbe International Airport (EBB) or Kajjansi Airfield (near Kampala) to several airstrips within or near the park, including:

• Pakuba Airstrip (Northern Bank)

• Bugungu Airstrip (Southern Bank)

• Chobe Airstrip

Murchison Falls National Park Entrance Fees (International Visitors)

Note: Fees are subject to change by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA). Always confirm current prices before booking

When to Visit Murchison Falls National Park (Best Time for Wildlife)

Murchison Falls enjoys a tropical climate, making it an excellent destination year-round. However, the experience varies slightly depending on the season, influencing the movement of wildlife and tourist numbers.

Main Attractions & Things To Do in Murchison Falls National Park

Murchison Falls offers a diverse list of activities, ensuring a packed itinerary for any safari traveler. A minimum of a 3-day Murchison Falls Safari is recommended, though 4 to 6 days allows for a deeper exploration of all activities.

1. Visiting the Top of the Murchison Falls

This is the park’s signature activity and a must-do. After a drive to the falls area, a short hike takes you

to the point where the 50-meter-wide Nile River is forced through a 7-meter cleft in the rock,

exploding into a thunderous 43-meter drop.

Why it’s essential: The raw power of the water, the deafening roar, and the permanent rainbows formed by the mist (known as the “Devil’s Cauldron”) offer spectacular photographic moments. This spot is accessible both by car/hike or by disembarking from the Launch Cruise at the bottom

2. The Ultimate Game Drive Experience (Wildlife in Murchison Falls)

Game drives in the Northern Bank are the best way to explore the vast savannah and track the largest herds of wildlife in the park. Game drives typically last 3–4 hours and are conducted early morning or late afternoon.

Our Expert Local Team has decades of experience tracking movement patterns. We ensure you are positioned for the best sightings while maintaining safe and respectful distances.

Murchison Falls Wildlife: What You Will See (Big 4 & Rarities)

MFNP is home to four of the “Big Five” safari animals, and several critically important species:

• The Big 4: Huge herds of Elephants and Cape Buffalo are common. Lions are frequently sighted, often resting on the trademark “safari termite mounds.” Leopards are present but notoriously elusive, often best spotted during a dedicated night game drive. (Rhinos are seen at

  

  Ziwa, making it the ‘Big 5’ experience)

• The Rothschild’s Giraffe: Murchison Falls is globally significant for the critically endangered Rothschild’s Giraffe (a subspecies of the Northern Giraffe). The park’s successful conservation efforts have resulted in a rapidly growing population, making sightings guaranteed and truly special.

• Antelopes & Plains Game: Expect to see enormous numbers of Uganda Kob, Jackson’s Hartebeest, Waterbucks, Oribis, and the shy Bushbuck.

• Predators: Beyond the Lions and Leopards, look out for Spotted Hyenas, Side-Striped Jackals, and the slender Serval Cat (especially on night drives).

3. Boat Cruise on the Victoria Nile: Gateway to the Falls and Delta

The boat cruise is arguably the most relaxing and rewarding activity, offering a unique perspective on the riverine wildlife. Two main cruises are available:

A. The Launch Cruise to the Bottom of the Falls (The Classic): This three-hour cruise departs from Paraa and travels upstream towards the Murchison Falls, stopping near the “Devil’s

Cauldron.” The riverbanks are magnets for wildlife. You will see:

• Hippos: Huge pods of Hippopotamus.

• Crocodiles: The largest population of Nile Crocodiles in Uganda, basking on the sandbanks.

• Drinking Wildlife: Elephants, buffalo, and Antelopes regularly come to the river to drink and bathe.

4. Chimpanzee Trekking in Budongo Forest

South of the main savannah plains lies the vast Budongo Forest Reserve, home to one of Uganda’s largest chimpanzee populations (over 800 individuals).

Chimpanzee Trekking in Budongo Forest offers two main experiences:

1. Chimpanzee Trekking: A morning or afternoon walk with an expert UWA ranger to find a habituated community. The chances of sighting are high (around 80-90%).

2. Chimpanzee Habituation Experience (CHEX): A full-day activity allowing participants to spend nearly a full day with the chimpanzees, observing them from de-nesting in the morning to nesting in the evening.

Permit Cost: Chimpanzee trekking permits in Budongo are significantly more affordable than the Gorilla trekking permits further south, offering excellent value.

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5. Rhino Tracking at the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

To experience the full Big Five, a stop at the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is essential. Located en route to the park, the sanctuary is home to Uganda’s only wild population of White Rhinos.

Rhino Tracking at the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is done on foot under the supervision of skilled field officers. This intimate, walking safari experience is part of a crucial breeding program aimed at eventually reintroducing Rhinos into MFNP and other national parks. Combining this activity before or after your main safari creates the complete Big Five Uganda Safari.  

6. Birdwatching and Other Activities

With 451 species recorded, Murchison Falls is a phenomenal birding destination. Activities include:

• Forest Walks: Nature walks in the Budongo or Rabongo Forests, often led by an experienced ornithologist or ranger.

• Birding Drives: Exploring varied habitats for species like the Abyssinian Ground Hornbill, Giant Kingfisher, and Grey Crowned Crane.

• Hot Air Balloon Safari: The park is one of the few places in Uganda where you can enjoy a sunrise Hot Air Balloon Wildlife viewing experience, offering breathtaking views of the river and plains from above.

Accommodation in Murchison Falls National Park (Luxury to Budget)

Accommodation options cater to every budget, from luxurious riverside lodges to comfortable rest camps and budget-friendly campsites. The best lodges are strategically located for easy access to game drives and boat launches in the Paraa area.

 Lodge Vetting: We personally inspect all partner lodges for quality, sustainability practices, and genuine local employment to ensure your money supports the communities you visit.

 Why Book Your Murchison Falls Tour with Our Local Specialists

Choosing the right operator is the single most important decision for your safari. By choosing our local expertise, you benefit from a safari that is not only seamlessly organized but deeply responsible and tailored to your specific interests.

1. Unmatched Local Expertise: Our specialists live and breathe Uganda. They provide unparalleled tracking skills for elusive species like the Leopard and know the secret spots for unique birding and photographic opportunities that larger, non-local operators often miss.

2. Tailored, Flexible Itineraries: We don’t sell fixed package tours (unless you want one). Whether you want a 4-Day Murchison Falls Wildlife Safari focused purely on big game or a combined 5-Day Tour of Murchison Falls and Queen Elizabeth NP, we customize every day to your pace, budget, and passion.

3. Commitment to Sustainable Tourism: We prioritize ethical and sustainable practices, from choosing eco-friendly lodges to contributing a portion of our proceeds to local conservation efforts within the Murchison Falls Conservation Area. Travel with us, and your adventure supports the long-term protection of Uganda’s wildlife.

*Murchison Falls National Park is waiting. Whether you are trekking Chimpanzees in the ancient Budongo forest, tracking the rare Rothschild’s Giraffe on the savannah, or witnessing the incredible power of the Nile at the falls, your Ugandan safari will be an experience that defines a lifetime of travel*

Contact our expert team today to start designing your tailor-made, specialist-led Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda safari adventure.

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