Family Safaris
8-Day Uganda Gorillas & Wildlife family tour
Our 8 day Uganda family safari packs the very best of the Pearl of Africa into one easy, well-paced trip.
3 Days Murchison Falls Safari
Our 3 day Murchison Falls safari is an ideal escape if you want to get away and relax in the wild. On the way, you meet white rhinos at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary. Then, in Murchison Falls National Park, you enjoy a game drive, see the falls from the top and cruise the Nile to the foot of the falls. As a result, you get big game, birds and one of Africa’s most dramatic waterfalls in one short trip.
Trip overview
Murchison Falls is Uganda’s largest national park. Here, the mighty Nile squeezes through a gorge just 7 metres wide and thunders down the rift. The view is breathtaking, and the sound is even more powerful. In addition, the park is full of wildlife, from elephants and giraffes to hippos and crocodiles. For bird lovers, it is also one of the best places in Uganda to look for the shoebill.
Tour highlights
- Track endangered white rhinos at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary.
- Look for lions, elephants, giraffes and buffaloes on a game drive.
- Stand at the Top of the Falls and feel the power of the Nile.
- Cruise to the bottom of the falls past hippos and Nile crocodiles.
- Search for the shoebill and other water birds.
Day-by-day itinerary
Day 1: Transfer to Murchison Falls National Park via Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary
Early in the morning, your driver-guide picks you up from an agreed place in Kampala. After a short briefing, you set off for Murchison Falls National Park, the largest park in Uganda. On the way, we stop at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary in Nakasongola to see the endangered white rhinos. Afterwards, we continue to the lodge, where you check in and rest.
Driving time: ± 9 hours
Accommodation: Fort Murchison
Day 2: Game drive, Top of the Falls and Nile boat cruise
At 7am, you leave the lodge for the northern sector of the park. On this side of the Nile, look for elephants, buffaloes, giraffes, warthogs and many types of antelope. On a good day, you may also see lions or leopards. Birds are everywhere too, including crowned cranes, Egyptian geese, guineafowl and perhaps the shoebill.
The game drive lasts about 2–3 hours. Afterwards, you have a quick packed lunch and visit the Top of the Falls. Then, at 2pm, you join a 2–3 hour boat cruise to the bottom of the falls. From the boat, you get a clear view of the Nile forcing its way through the 7-metre gorge. The thundering sound and the rushing water make amazing photos. Along the banks, you will also see Nile crocodiles, hippos and many birds, sometimes even the shoebill stork.
From the bottom of the falls, you can also hike back up to the top, where your guide will be waiting. Finally, you return to the lodge for dinner and a well-earned rest.
Accommodation: Fort Murchison
Day 3: Return to Kampala
After a hearty early breakfast, you drive back to Kampala. On the way, we stop for souvenirs and photos. Finally, we drop you at the hotel of your choice, or at the airport if you have a connecting flight.
Driving time: ± 8 hours
What’s included and price per person
Included:
- 4WD vehicle and fuel
- English-speaking driver/guide
- Accommodation mentioned
- Small first aid kit
- Boat cruise
- Game drives
- Top of the Falls
- Ziwa rhinos
Excluded:
- Drinks & personal snacks
- Personal expenses, souvenirs
- Tips and gratuities
- Optional activities
- Personal medical and travel insurance
- Visas
- International flights
Price per person:
2 Pax – $823
3 Pax – $700
4 Pax – $596
5 Pax – $567
6 Pax – $520
7 Pax – $510
Who this Murchison Falls trip suits
This 3 day Murchison Falls safari suits anyone who wants classic wildlife and scenery without a long trip. For example, it works well for families, couples, birders and photographers. Because most activities are by vehicle and boat, you only need basic fitness. However, the optional hike to the top of the falls involves some uphill walking.
Best time to visit Murchison Falls
Murchison Falls is open all year. Still, the drier months of December to February and June to September are usually best for game drives, because animals gather near water and the grass is shorter. On the other hand, the wet season brings green scenery, migrant birds and fewer visitors. In any season, the falls are always spectacular.
Tips for your trip
- Bring binoculars. They help you spot distant animals and birds.
- Pack sun protection. A hat, sunscreen and sunglasses are a must on the boat and the savannah.
- Use insect repellent. It keeps you comfortable near the river.
- Wear good walking shoes. They help at Ziwa and on the trail to the top of the falls.
- Charge your camera. Also, bring a spare battery for the boat cruise.
The park is managed by the Uganda Wildlife Authority, which sets park fees. So, we will confirm the current rates when you enquire.
Extend or combine your trip
Murchison Falls is easy to add to a longer holiday. For instance, our 10 day Uganda highlights safari continues to Kibale, Queen Elizabeth, Bwindi and Lake Mburo. Alternatively, you can add chimps on the 3 day Kibale chimpanzee safari. You can also browse more wildlife safaris and game drives.
Every Roots Tours & Travel trip is tailor-made. Just tell us your dates, group size and interests. Then, we will send you a free itinerary for your 3 day Murchison Falls safari.
Book Now
Not sure where to start? Chat with our safari specialists. We’ll help you find the perfect adventure.Every great journey begins with a conversation. Let’s plan yours.
Contact Us
- info@tourwithroots.com
- +256 776 83 1722
- +256 200 905 219
- Universal Apartments, Spine Road - Naalya - Kampala(U)
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