This Flying Wildlife Safari Maximizes your time at Murchison Falls Park
3 Day – Fly-In Wildlife Safari in Murchison Falls Park, staying at Nile Safari Lodge
Your 3-Day Luxury Fly-In Wildlife Safari – Murchison Falls Park in Uganda: Experience the ultimate 3-day luxury fly-in wildlife safari in Murchison Falls Park, Uganda’s most visited and expansive national Park. Known for its diverse wildlife and breathtaking natural beauty, Murchison Falls Park offers an unparalleled wildlife experience.
With its abundant bird species, stunning scenery, the majestic River Nile running through it, and the world’s most powerful waterfall, Murchison Falls Park is the ideal destination for a fly-in wildlife safari in Uganda’s largest and most popular Park.
Indulge in a stay at the magnificent Nile Safari Lodge, one of Uganda’s finest lodges. Located in a secluded area, it offers breathtaking views of the Nile River, where you can observe various birds and hippos.
The safari activities include thrilling game drives, a wildlife boat cruise along the Nile, an awe-inspiring hot air balloon ride over the Savannah with a bush breakfast, and a visit to the top of the mighty waterfall, allowing you to witness its sheer power. You can also relax on the Nile while enjoying a cold Nile Beer during the safari.
Immerse yourself in the wonders of Murchison Falls Park and create unforgettable memories on this exclusive luxury safari experience.
Highlights of your 3-Day Luxury Fly-In Wildlife Safari – Murchison Falls National Park
- Fly with AeroLink Safari Airline: noon 60-minute flight to Bugungu Airstrip, from where it is a half-hour drive to Nile Safari Lodge.
- Stay at the exclusive Nile Safari Lodge: Luxury Bandas overlooking the Nile River—one of Uganda’s best Lodges.
- Nile Wildlife Boat Cruise up to Murchison Falls: Hippos, enormous Nile Crocodiles, Nile Monitor Lizards, Elephant, and Buffalo herds, pods of Hippos, antelopes, and hundreds of waterbirds.
- Top of the Falls Hike: A 45-minute guided trip up to the top.
- Hot Air Balloon Ride with Bush Breakfast: Soar over the Savannah as the sun rises—traditional Bush Breakfast with Sparkling Wine.
- Game Drives: 3 Game Drives: Two on Day 2- and one more on the morning of the Day before the flight back to Entebbe.
- Private Toyota Land-Cruiser and Personal Driver-Guide: The vehicle has a Pop-Up Roof for game viewing.
Your 3-Day Luxury Fly-In Wildlife Safari – Murchison Falls Park in Detail:
Day -1: Fly to Murchison Falls National Park:
We will arrange your pickup from your hotel in Kampala at 11 am, and our team will transport you to Entebbe International Airport. Upon arrival at the airport, you will check in with AeroLink Safari Airline for your noon flight to Bugungu. The flight duration is approximately 60 minutes. Once you land at Bugungu, there will be a short half-hour drive to reach Nile Safari Lodge.
At the airstrip, your driver-guide will be waiting to welcome you and accompany you throughout your stay until your departure to Entebbe International Airport. They will provide assistance, guidance, and information during your safari experience.
Nile Safari Lodge
Experience the exclusivity and eco-friendly ambiance of Nile Safari Lodge, a hidden gem in Murchison Falls Park. With only eight beautifully designed Bandas overlooking the River Nile, this luxury lodge stands out as one of the finest accommodations in the Park. Its understated elegance and unique style set it apart from the rest.
Unlike most lodges, Nile Safari Lodge is tranquil, offering a peaceful retreat away from the crowds. It caters specifically to discerning African travelers seeking an extraordinary experience. Despite its secluded setting, the Lodge provides convenient access to game drives on the northern side of the Nile, facilitated by the nearby Paraa Bridge.
Nile Safari Lodge surpasses expectations regarding rooms, meals, and service. The main Lodge features a well-appointed bar, a dining area, and a stunning swimming pool with panoramic views of the Nile.
Given the limited number of rooms available, making an early booking for this safari is highly recommended to secure your stay at Nile Safari Lodge.
Afternoon Boat Cruise on the Nile:
One of the most exciting highlights of your safari is the boat cruise, which is not just any boat cruise—it takes place on the historic Nile River. During the cruise, you can witness various wildlife, including pods of hippos, sun-basking Nile crocodiles, monitor lizards, herds of elephants, groups of buffaloes, and many water birds.
Many visitors consider this boat cruise the best wildlife experience in Uganda. It offers many wildlife sightings, from Paraa to the bottom of the falls. Even former President Idi Amin used to navigate this section of the Nile on his boat.
The boat cruise holds historical significance as well. Sir Samuel and Lady Florence Baker, the first Westerners to witness the world’s most powerful waterfall, had their boat capsized by a hippo as they approached the falls. The location was also featured in filming the movie “African Queen,” starring Humphrey Bogart and Katharine Hepburn in 1951.
Upon reaching the bottom of the falls, you can either stay on the boat for the return trip or hike to the top. The choice is yours to make.
Top of the Falls Hike:
The guided Hike up to the top of the falls takes about 45 minutes. You are taking the trail that, in 1907, Winston Churchill took down where he was met by a boat that took him to Khartoum in Sudan.
Above the falls, you see how wide they are, and on the descent down the Western Rift escarpments. It pours through a six-meter-wide cauldron. You will be amazed by the sights, sounds, and mist.
Near here, Ernest Hemingway crash-landed in 1954 and was given up as dead, only to be rescued by a tourist boat launch.
A few years back, someone came up with the idea of building a dam. However, there was such an uproar from conservationists and the tourism industry that it quietly faded away.
Your driver-guide will meet you here and return to Nile Safari Lodge, where you can relax and chill out before dinner.
Meal Plan: Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner
Day -2: Murchison Falls National Park:
Breakfast Boat Safari:
Experience a magical Sunrise Breakfast Cruise on the Nile River. You’ll have the chance to enjoy a delicious breakfast while cruising down the Nile Delta. Picture yourself savoring a tasty meal as you take in the breathtaking views of the river, surrounded by birds, hippos, and crocodiles along the riverbanks.
This activity lasts for approximately two to three hours and will be one of the highlights of your safari adventure. It’s especially great for families with children, as everyone can enjoy this unique experience.
Unlike a pre-packed breakfast, your Breakfast will be freshly cooked onboard the boat. You can sit back, relax, and enjoy your meal while admiring the stunning sights and sipping a cup of Ugandan Arabica Coffee.
If you prefer a more intimate experience, a private breakfast boat cruise can be arranged just for you. Imagine having the Nile all to yourself as you indulge in a freshly prepared breakfast.
Having Breakfast while slowly cruising on the Nile at sunrise is an exceptional experience. It’s not something many people can say they’ve done. So, prepare for an unforgettable adventure as you enjoy Breakfast on the River Nile in Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda.
Late Afternoon Game Drive:
Join us for an exciting late afternoon Game Drive in Murchison Falls National Park! Get ready to spot fantastic wildlife like Lions, Leopards, Elephants, Buffaloes, Giraffes, and even patas monkeys. There’s so much to see and explore!
During the game drive, you’ll be accompanied by a knowledgeable Uganda Wildlife Ranger who carries a weapon for safety. The ranger will share interesting information about the Park and the animals you encounter. With your driver’s guide and the ranger, you won’t miss a thing!
The vehicle you’ll be in has a pop-up feature, allowing you to stand up and have a better view of the wildlife and take great photographs. Remember, climbing on vehicles is not permitted according to park rules.
Once you’re back at the Lodge, we suggest trying the excellent Nile Beer while enjoying the view of the Nile River. Nile Beer is a popular local beer in Uganda that many people want.
You can try Uganda Waragi with Krest Bitter Lemon for a refreshing sundowner. Waragi comes from the term “War Gin,” which refers to gin that the British used to give to Ugandan soldiers to boost their courage in battle.
Get ready for an incredible adventure on the Game Drive, where you’ll witness the beauty of Murchison Falls National Park and have some enjoyable drinks to top off your Day!
Meal Plan: Breakfast – Lunch – Dinner
Day -3: Return to Entebbe with AeroLink:
After enjoying Breakfast, we’ll embark on the final game drive on the north side of the Nile in Murchison Falls National Park. Excitingly, there’s now a bridge that crosses the Nile, so we no longer have to waParkor the ferry to access the wildlife side of the park. It’s much more convenient!
By this time, we hope to have seen all Big-5 animals, including Lions, Leopards, Elephants, Buffaloes, and Rhinos. They are the most famous and impressive animals to encounter in the park.
Murchison Falls National Park is a part of the African Wilderness, where things can be unpredictable. You never know what surprises await around the next bend or turn of the track you’re on. That’s what makes it so thrilling and adventurous!
So, get ready for an exciting game drive as we explore the north side of the Nile. Keep your eyes peeled, as there’s always a chance to encounter remarkable wildlife and experience the untamed beauty of the African Wild.
Early Lunch – Before your flight back to Entebbe:
Before departure from Murchison Falls National Park, we have organized an early lunch for you. This will be followed by your flight back to Entebbe International Airport, scheduled for 13:15 Hours. Please be at the Bugungu airstrip 30 minutes before your flight takes off.
Once you arrive at Entebbe International Airport, our team will greet you and escort you to a dayroom we have already arranged at a nearby hotel. This will allow you to freshen up and have dinner before your flight.
Your meal plan for the Day includes Breakfast and lunch, ensuring you have a satisfying meal before departure.
Practical Safari Information:
- Luggage Allowance: You are allowed 15 kg of luggage. We suggest using a durable duffle Bag. The extra luggage rate is Six USD per kilo.
- Safari Wear: We suggest that you have a daypack in which you keep your money and essential copies of documents. For this safari, good walking shoes are recommended. Wear long trousers, a long-sleeved shirt, and a broad-brimmed hat: insect repellent, sunblock, sunglasses. For detailed information, read more here.
- Staying in touch with family and Friends: WiFi services are often only in the main Lodge. We can provide a MIFi router with data, but you must let us know.
All activities listed in the itinerary are included in the price. Tips and drinks such as sodas, beer, wine, and alcohol are not covered. Tips are also not included in the price of the safari.
Book this 3-Day Luxury Fly-In Wildlife Safari – Murchison Falls Park Safari!