Murchison Falls National Park

Discover Murchison Falls National Park

Also known as Kabalega National Park, Murchison Falls National Park is renowned for being home to the world’s most powerful waterfall. Here, the mighty Victoria Nile pushes through a narrow 7-meter gorge, unleashing 300 cubic meters per second of water that causes the surrounding landscape to tremble. Originally gazetted in 1927, Murchison Falls National Park spans 3,840 square kilometers (1,483 sq miles), making it the largest national park in Uganda. It’s a popular destination for safari tours due to its rich diversity of wildlife and engaging activities.

Location

Murchison Falls National Park is located in northern Uganda, northwest of the capital city, Kampala. It extends across several districts, including Nwoya, Masindi, Kiryandongo, and Buyisa, and reaches into the Bunyoro escarpment. The park lies in the northernmost reaches of the Albertine Rift Valley, with the Victoria Nile bisecting its vast terrain.

Wildlife

Murchison Falls National Park is home to over 73 animal species, including four of the “Big Five”: buffalo, leopard, lion, and elephant (rhinos are found at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary). The park also harbors three-quarters of the world’s population of Rothschild giraffes, along with an abundance of herbivores such as the Uganda kob. In addition, the verdant forests like Budongo are home to more than 610 chimpanzees, and birdwatchers can enjoy over 451 species, including 23 Albertine Rift endemics.

Key Attractions

• The Murchison Falls

Experience the breathtaking power of Murchison Falls, where the Victoria Nile surges through a narrow gorge and plunges 43 meters. The falls create a thunderous noise and a spectacular mist, offering stunning views for visitors.

• Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

Established in 2005, Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary aims to restore the white rhino population in Uganda after poaching wiped them out in the 1990s. Today, 22 southern white rhinos call this sanctuary home, and it’s a key stop for those interested in seeing all the “Big Five.”

• Rich Wildlife

A Leopard-in-Murchison-Falls-National Park

The park’s diverse landscapes—savannah, woodland, and riverine forest—support a wide range of wildlife. Safari tours provide opportunities to see lions, elephants, giraffes, hartebeests, cheetahs, hyenas, and many more. Bird enthusiasts will also be delighted by the diverse species, including the rare shoebill stork, Goliath heron, African jacana, and pied kingfisher.

Activities to Enjoy

• Launch Cruise

A two-hour boat ride from Paraa offers opportunities to see wildlife up close, including giant crocodiles, hippos, and a wide variety of birds. The launch cruise is perfect for photography enthusiasts.

• Game Drives

Conducted in the early morning and evening, game drives allow visitors to spot wildlife in their natural habitat. The Delta area, Buligi Peninsula, and southern sector are popular for game viewing. Don’t miss our 3-Day Murchison Falls Safari.

• Cultural Tours

Enjoy energetic cultural dances by the Mubako people by a campfire, and visit the Boomu Women’s Group to learn about local crafts and culture.

• Chimpanzee Tracking

Track chimpanzees in Budongo Forest and experience an up-close encounter with these fascinating primates.

• Hot Air Balloon Safari

Hot Air Balloon Safari

A hot air balloon ride offers a breathtaking aerial view of the park’s landscape and wildlife at dawn. The cost ranges from $380 to $400 per person.

• Bird Watching

Bird watching is an unforgettable experience, with the chance to see Albertine Rift endemics, waterbirds, and savannah species during launch cruises or game drives.

• Nature Walks & Hikes

Explore the Rabongo and Kaniyo Pabidi forests on foot to discover birds, primates, and the beauty of the park’s flora.

When to Visit

Murchison Falls National Park is an all-year-round destination, but the best time to visit is during the dry seasons—December to mid-February, and June to July. Bird watching is especially rewarding during the wet season when migratory birds are present.

How to Get There

The park can be accessed by both road and air. It’s a 4.5-hour drive from Kampala via the Kampala-Masindi route (282 km) or a 5.5-hour drive via Kampala-Hoima. Chartered flights are available from Kajjansi or Entebbe to Chobe airstrip.

Accommodation Options

Murchison Falls National Park offers a wide range of accommodations to suit all budgets, from budget lodges to luxury stays. Options include:

• Luxury

Chobe Safari Lodge

Chobe Safari Lodge, Nile Safari Lodge

• Mid-Range:

Pakuba Safari Lodge, Murchison River Lodge, Fort Murchison Safari Lodge

• Budget:

Red Chilli Rest Camp

Boomu Women’s Group Bandas, Red Chilli Rest Camp, Yebo Safari Camp, Parkside Safari Lodge

What to Pack for Your Safari

Be sure to pack a valid passport with visa, a yellow fever vaccination certificate, and the following items:

• Comfortable, non-brightly colored safari clothing
• Long-sleeved shirts, scarves, and trousers
• Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat
• Durable waterproof shoes (especially for nature walks or chimpanzee trekking)
• Camera for capturing those unforgettable safari moments

Join Sekekeka Tours and Travel for an unforgettable journey through the wonders of Murchison Falls National Park, where adventure and wildlife await!