Murchison Falls National Park

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Murchison Falls National Park is Uganda’s largest national park and one of its most exciting safari destinations. Here, the mighty Nile squeezes through a gap just 7 metres wide and plunges into a thundering gorge. Around the falls, open savannah teems with elephants, giraffes, lions and buffaloes.

The park covers about 3,893 square kilometres in north-western Uganda. The Victoria Nile cuts it in two as it flows west towards Lake Albert. As a result, you can enjoy both classic game drives and memorable boat trips on the same visit.

On this page, you will find the park’s wildlife, top activities, best time to visit and how to get there. Finally, we show you which of our safaris include Murchison Falls.

Wildlife in Murchison Falls National Park

More than 76 mammal species live in the park. Four of the Big Five are here: lions, leopards, elephants and buffaloes. In addition, Murchison is one of the best places to see the Rothschild’s giraffe. Other common animals include Uganda kob, Jackson’s hartebeest, waterbucks, bushbucks, warthogs and hyenas.

The Nile itself is full of life. Hippos and Nile crocodiles crowd the riverbanks, while elephants and buffaloes come down to drink. Several primates also live in the park, including baboons and a number of monkey species.

Birders will be thrilled too. Over 450 bird species have been recorded, including the rare shoebill. Because the park lies on the western arm of the Rift Valley, it also has a number of Albertine Rift endemics.

Things to do in Murchison Falls

Game drives

Game drives usually last two to three hours. The best area is the Buligi game tracks, north of the river. For the best results, plan a morning and an evening drive. You can expect to see buffaloes, antelopes, giraffes, elephants and, with luck, lions or leopards. Night drives are also available and give you a chance to spot nocturnal animals.

Boat trip to the bottom of the falls

A launch cruise upstream from Paraa is a highlight of any visit. Trips usually run twice a day, mid-morning and afternoon. Along the way, you will pass hippos, crocodiles, elephants, buffaloes and many water birds. Finally, the boat stops below the falls for a dramatic view.

Hike to the top of the falls

The hike to the top takes about 45 minutes. As you climb, you feel the spray and the ground shaking under your feet. It is one of the most powerful experiences in Uganda, so don’t forget your camera.

Nile Delta boat trip

Fewer visitors take the boat downstream to the delta, where the Nile flows into Lake Albert. However, it is a superb trip for birders, and it offers a good chance of seeing the shoebill.

Other activities

Hot air balloon safaris give you a bird’s-eye view of the savannah. Meanwhile, anglers can go sport fishing for Nile perch and tilapia with a permit. Guided nature walks along the river are also great for birding. Finally, you can track chimpanzees in nearby Budongo Forest.

History of the park

European explorers first reached the area in the 1860s. Samuel and Florence Baker explored it in 1863 and 1864. Samuel Baker named the falls after Roderick Murchison, president of the Royal Geographical Society.

Between 1907 and 1912, people left a large area because of sleeping sickness, which tsetse flies spread. In 1910, the Bunyoro Game Reserve was created south of the Nile. Later, in 1928, its boundaries extended north of the river. Finally, in 1952, the area became Murchison Falls National Park.

Best time to visit Murchison Falls National Park

You can visit the park all year round. However, the dry seasons are best for game viewing. The longer dry season runs from June to September. A shorter one runs from December to February. During these months, roads and game tracks stay dry, and animals gather near water.

The wetter months are March to May and October to November. On the other hand, the park is green and quiet at this time. Some roads can become muddy, so a good 4×4 and an experienced driver make a big difference.

How to get to Murchison Falls

By road, the park is about 282 km from Kampala, which is roughly a five-hour drive. Many travellers stop at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary on the way to track white rhinos on foot.

Alternatively, you can fly from Kajjansi airfield. Pakuba airstrip is about 19 km from Paraa, while Bugungu airstrip lies about 13 km away. A driver then meets you for the final transfer.

Tips for your visit

First, plan at least two nights in the park. This gives you time for a game drive, a boat trip and the hike to the top of the falls without rushing. Second, bring binoculars, a hat, sunscreen and insect repellent, because the savannah can be hot and the riverbanks attract tsetse flies. In addition, light neutral-coloured clothing helps you stay cool and blend in on game drives. Finally, keep your camera ready on the boat, since elephants and hippos often appear right beside the river.

Safaris that include Murchison Falls

Murchison Falls works well as a short trip or as part of a longer safari. For a quick visit, our 3 day Murchison Falls safari covers the boat trip, game drives and the top of the falls. For a longer journey, the 10 days best of Uganda safari combines Murchison with Kibale and Queen Elizabeth. Families may also enjoy our 8 day Uganda family safari, which starts here. For more ideas, see our wildlife safaris and game drives.

The Uganda Wildlife Authority manages the park and sets entry and activity fees, which change from time to time. So, Roots will confirm current rates when you enquire. Tell us your dates, and we will plan your visit to Murchison Falls National Park with a free itinerary.