Murchison Falls National Park – Uganda’s Best All-Around Wildlife Park
The Top Things to Do and See in Murchison Falls Park – Uganda’s largest National Park
The Activities that you can do in Murchison Falls National Park
Top Things to Do and See in Murchison Falls Park: Murchison Falls National Park in Uganda is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers. As the largest wildlife reserve in the country, it offers a wealth of captivating sights and experiences. One of its remarkable features is the historic River Nile, which flows through the park, making it an exceptional destination.
The park is renowned for its abundant wildlife, including a significant population of Rothschild Giraffes. It is also home to vast herds of Elephants, Buffaloes, and Antelopes. Murchison Falls National Park provides opportunities to catch glimpses of majestic lions, elusive leopards, and other fascinating feline species.
The main attraction are the awe-inspiring Murchison Falls. This owerful waterfall showcases the power of nature as the mighty Nile River surges through a narrow gorge, creating a mesmerizing cascade. Visiting Murchison Falls allows you to witness the force of the water and feel the refreshing mist on your face—an experience that will stay with you forever. In fact, Murchison Falls is recognized as the most powerful waterfall in the world.
Embarking on a thrilling Nile River boat safari is an essential part of exploring Murchison Falls National Park. This adventure takes you up close to the river’s banks, where you can encounter hippos, crocodiles, and a wide variety of bird species. Keep an eye out for elephants, buffaloes, and other wildlife that gather near the river for a drink, creating unforgettable wildlife sightings.
For an immersive wildlife experience, join a game drive through the park’s vast savannah landscapes. These excursions offer the chance to spot a diverse range of wildlife, including lions, leopards, elephants, giraffes, buffaloes, hyenas, and various antelope species. The park is a treasure trove of natural wonders, and each game drive reveals new surprises and unforgettable encounters.
Throughout its history, Murchison Falls National Park has attracted notable visitors who recognized its allure. British explorers Sir Samuel and Lady Florence Baker were among the first Westerners to explore the area, discovering and naming the majestic Murchison Falls in honor of Sir Roderick Murchison, the President of the Royal Geographical Society.
Theodore Roosevelt, the 26th President of the United States, ventured into the park during his hunting expedition in East Africa, while Winston Churchill, the renowned British statesman and Prime Minister, found himself captivated by the park’s natural beauty and wildlife during his visit in 1907.
Idi Amin, the controversial Ugandan President, frequented Murchison Falls National Park, indulging in boat trips along the Nile River and exploring the wildlife-rich areas of the park.
These early visitors played a significant role in bringing attention to the park’s natural wonders and diverse wildlife, contributing to its reputation as a must-visit destination in Uganda.
With its remarkable attractions and abundant wildlife, Murchison Falls National Park continues to enchant visitors from around the world, captivating them with its beauty and providing unforgettable experiences in the heart of nature.
Top Things to Do and See in Murchison Falls Park
Why do Tourists choose to visit Murchison Falls Park?
The Star Attraction – The Most Powerful Waterfall in the World & the Nile runs through the Park.
Top Things to Do and See in Murchison Falls Park: Tourists and visitors are drawn by the sights and sounds of the most poerful waterfall in dthe World cascading down the Albertine Rift escarpment, forming the ico. Here you can Experience the breathtaking beauty of Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda’s largest wildlife reserve. Located in the Albertine Western Rift Valley, this park offers a captivating blend of natural wonders.
Murchison Falls Park is the only wildlife park wihere the historic Nile River runs throiugh it. A park where you can take wildlife boating safaris where you wildlife, birds adn reptiles.
The diverse activities for nature enthusiasts, wildlife lovers, and birdwatchers, the park’s savannah plains, lush forests, and meandering River Nile provide a treasure trove of experiences. Encounter over 76 mammal species and 451 bird species, including Nile crocodiles and playful hippos. Don’t miss the chance to spot the Shoebill Stork and the majestic Goliath Heron. Murchison Falls Park’s unrivaled beauty earned it the title of one of Uganda’s best all-around parks. Embark on an unforgettable journey and create cherished memories in this remarkable destination.
The Top Things to do and see in Murchison Falls National Park:
Wildlife Game Drives:
Wildlife game drives in Murchison Falls National Park offer an immersive experience in the African wild, providing a chance to observe a wide range of remarkable wildlife. These drives typically involve a knowledgeable driver-guide and a Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) ranger who enhance the experience and ensure memorable sightings.
During the game drives, you’ll have the opportunity to see impressive herds of buffaloes and elephants roaming the park’s expansive savannah plains. The park is renowned for its population of Rothschild Giraffes, an endangered species that can often be spotted gracefully moving through the landscape. Keep your eyes peeled for the elusive leopard, known for its stealth and camouflage, as well as the majestic lion, the king of the African savannah. Additionally, there are various antelope species to be seen, including Jackson’s hartebeest, bushbucks, Uganda kob, waterbucks, and warthogs.
Game drives typically last around three hours, allowing ample time to explore the park’s diverse habitats and encounter its magnificent wildlife. This duration strikes a balance, ensuring an enjoyable experience for families with small children and maximizing the opportunity for wildlife sightings. Unlike some other parks, the distances traveled during game drives in Murchison Falls National Park are reasonable, ensuring that you spend more time observing wildlife and less time on the road.
Nile River Boat Cruise up to the Falls:
A highlight of a safari visit to Murchison Falls National Park is the captivating boat ride up to the falls. It’s like stepping into a scene from a National Geographic Special, only better because you’re there in person to witness it all. During the boat ride, you’ll have the extraordinary opportunity to see hippos playfully frolicking in the water. These massive creatures don’t actually swim but instead bounce off the river or lake bottom, adding to the unique spectacle.
As you cruise along, keep an eye out for Nile Crocodiles sunning themselves along the banks, with their mouths wide open, showcasing their formidable presence. Murchison Falls is home to some of the largest Nile crocodiles in all of Africa, making it an impressive sight to behold.
The boat safari also offers fantastic wildlife sightings. Watch as herds of elephants come to bathe and drink water, while buffaloes gather in large numbers. Various species of antelopes can be spotted along the shoreline, adding to the diversity of wildlife encounters. Additionally, the river is teeming with an array of water birds, creating a picturesque scene that you can hardly imagine until you see it for yourself.
One of the unique aspects of the Murchison Falls boat safari is the opportunity to disembark at the bottom of the falls. From there, you can embark on a hike to the top of the falls, where your driver-guide will meet you. This hike provides an exhilarating perspective and allows you to appreciate the sheer power and beauty of the falls up close. Afterward, your driver-guide will transport you back to your lodge, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience.
Private Boat Cruise: We can arrange a private boat cruise that takes you up the Nile to the falls and back.
Top of Murchison Falls Hike
Murchison Falls is the world’s most powerful waterfalls, and visiting it is an awe-inspiring experience. One of the best ways to approach the falls is by taking a boat safari up the River Nile and disembarking at the bottom. From there, you can embark on a 45-minute hike that will lead you to the top of the falls.
As you hike up to the falls, you’ll be greeted by refreshing mist and the sound of roaring water. The ground beneath your feet will tremble and vibrate, adding to the excitement of the experience. It’s a truly fantastic sensation that immerses you in the power and grandeur of Murchison Falls.
The waterfall hike is a guided tour, ensuring a safe and informative journey. Along the path, you’ll follow in the footsteps of the historic figure Winston Churchill. It is said that Churchill descended from the top of the falls and boarded a boat bound for Sudan during his African journey. His observations of the area, including the possibility of constructing an inexpensive bridge across the Nile, were recorded in his book “My African Journey.”
The trail leading to the topf of Murchison Falls is also part of the renowned Baker Trail, named after the famous explorers Samuel and Florence Baker. The Bakers made significant contributions to African exploration and their names are intertwined with the history of Murchison Falls National Park.
In addition to Murchison Falls, there is another waterfall in the distance called Uhuru Falls. The name Uhuru means “freedom” in English, adding a symbolic touch to this natural wonder. The Falls hike, combined with the Nile Cruise, has become a favorite activity among visitors to the park, allowing them to experience the beauty of the falls and the magnificence of the River Nile.
The hike to Murchison Falls and the surrounding attractions offer an incredible opportunity to witness the power of nature and delve into the history of exploration in this remarkable part of Uganda.
Nile Delta Boat Ride:
Most take the boat safari up to the Falls each day. Fewer take the boat ride down the Nile to the Nile Delta, where the Nile River merges into Lake Albert.
It is undoubtedly a not to miss event if you enjoy the birds, wildlife, hippos, and crocodiles you will see on this boat safari down the River Nile to where it drains into Lake Albert and where it is commonly referred to as the Nile Delta.
This stretch of the River is also one of the best spots in Uganda where you can spot the shoebill stork along the river banks, sometimes even in pairs.
Experience both the River Nile and Lake Albert on this boat safari. This Boat Safari is a must for Birders and those who want to see the Shoebill Stork in the Wild.
It is a half-day activity and is best done in the morning, especially if you are on a bird-watching outing.
Private Boat Cruise: We can arrange a private boat cruise that takes you down the Nile to Lake Albert and back.
Hiking in Murchison Falls Park:
One can go on various nature walks and hikes in Murchison Falls National Park and choose from multiple areas.
There is Rabongo Forest, a birders paradise, and an area where you can spot chimpanzees and other primates as you walk along with your guide.
Budongo Forest is one of the best areas to hike when it comes to Murchison Falls National Park, and you can see a variety of wildlife, monkeys, and birds. You can also go on guided walks in the Chobe area of the park.
Someday if ever completed, the Baker Trail will also go through the park. The Trail begins in South Sudan, ends along Lake Albert, and follows the Trail of the Discoverers Samuel and Florence Baker. If you are an avid hiker, look at our hiking advice and tips for Africa.
Please note that hiking in the park without a ranger is not advised or permitted, and this is for your protection.
Fishing for Africa’s biggest Freshwater Fish- the Nile Perch:
Catching a Nile Perch while fishing on the Nile at Murchison Falls is one of those once-in-a-lifetime experiences. Those who love to fish for that big one come from far and wide in their quest to catch a Nile Perch. There is even a yearly fishing tournament that takes place here, and its star attraction is the enormous Nile Perch.
The experience of catching a Nile Perch is often compared to reeling a salmon in the rivers found northwest of the US, British Columbia, or Alaska. The Nile Perch is a fighting fish that anglers love to tangle with here on the Nile at Murchison Falls.
Fishing can be done from a boat or the Nile’s banks, and an experienced guide will be at your side to guide you along. Angling for Nile Perch is on a catch-and-release basis, and you do not get to take it back to the lodge for an evening meal. If you want to keep the fish, you can do so while fishing Lake Albert or Victoria.
If this is something that you would like to do, contact us, and we will arrange a Murchison Falls Park Fishing and Wildlife Safari for you.
Sunrise breakfast or Sunset with Sundowner Cruise on the Nile
Sunrise – Early Morning Cruise with Breakfast
Enjoy a delightful and sumptuous breakfast with a cup of freshly brewed Ugandan Arabica Coffee while you slowly cruise down the Nile Delta. This is breakfast with a view of the river birds, hippos, and crocodiles along the banks of the Nile. The activity takes about two enjoyable hours that will be one of your safari highlights. This is an excellent activity for those on a Family Safari with children.
This is not a packed breakfast, but the breakfast is cooked on board while you enjoy the view and your Morning Joe Coffee. A private breakfast boat cruise can be arranged for you if you wish.
Sunset Cruise with traditional Sundowner:
There is nothing like a Sunset Cruise on the Nile at Murchison Falls National Park. As the day ends and things cool down, your boat will take you to visit the hippos and crocodiles near the Nyamsika sandbar and further downstream to the small reed islands.
Enjoy the sunset over the Nile and Murchison Falls Park while you drink a traditional Sundowner. It is a tradition that goes back to Colonial times when the British has their sunset Gin and Tonic. In Uganda, you can try Uganda Waragi with Krest Bitter Lemon. You can set aside traditions and have a Nile Beer or a glass of wine while on this Nile Cruise.
The Top Things to do and see near & around Murchison Falls National Park:
The Scenic Drive to or from Murchison Falls Park:
The scenic drive to or from Murchison Falls National Park offers a delightful journey with picturesque views and interesting landmarks along the way. As the route snakes along Lake Albert, you’ll have the opportunity to witness the beauty of the Blue Mountains in the Congo and the Western Rift Valley Escarpment, providing numerous photo opportunities.
Along the drive, you’ll pass by fishing villages nestled along the lake’s shores. These villages have a rich history, sometimes serving as hiding spots for smugglers and poachers. One notable stop is in Butiaba, a town that once served as a halfway point for seaplanes flying from Cairo to Cape Town. It’s a fascinating place where you can explore remnants of the past.
In Butiaba, you can visit the wreck of the SS Croydon, which used to make its journey across the lake. This historical artifact serves as a reminder of the area’s transportation history. Butiaba was also the starting point for wildlife cruises to Murchison Falls National Park in the past. However, due to changes in technology and the harbor being destroyed by a great storm, the town retains its peaceful atmosphere as a sleepy fishing village.
The drive to or from Murchison Falls Park provides a scenic and engaging experience, combining natural beauty, cultural encounters with local communities, and glimpses of historical remnants. It adds an extra layer of exploration and discovery to your journey, allowing you to appreciate the region’s diverse landscapes and rich heritage.
Chimpanzee Tracking in Budongo Forest:
Budongo Forest is an excellent area for Chimpanzee Tracking, it is a Jane Goodall Chimpanzee Research Station, and you have a unique opportunity to track Chimpanzees.
During the off-season, you can even do an all-day Chimpanzee Habituation here. Lodging and food are available at the reasonably priced Budongo Eco-Lodge.
Budongo Forest is an excellent place for chimpanzee tracking and chimpanzee habituation experience, birding, hiking, and nature walks from a few hours to all-day hikes on the trails of Budongo Forest.
Chimpanzee tracking is best done by adding a day to your Safari to Murchison Falls Park or as an add-on to your Safari on the first or last day in Murchison Falls Park.
Budongo Forest’s Golden Mile is one of the best birding locations in Uganda. Those from Poland or from Polish ancestry might be surprised to learn that Budongo Forest was once a refugee camp for Poles during World War ll. Evidence of that refugee Camp is the still-active “Our Lady of Poland” Catholic Church and cemetery.
Rhino Tracking – Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary:
Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is not a part of Murchison Falls Park but can be easily visited on the way to or from Murchison Falls National Park. Here you track Rhinos on foot with guides, which is an exhilarating experience.
Most people do not realize that you can also do various nature walks and hikes to see wildlife and birds. You can do a swamp boat ride here, and it is one of the better areas to spot the Shoebill Stork and other waterbirds.
Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is on a large estate similar to Murchison Falls, where eventually, some of the Rhinos will be released when their numbers reach over 20.
You can stay overnight at the upmarket Amuka Lodge or the Ziwa Guest House. The Amuka Lodge has a swimming pool, and some of our clients have raved about the food served there.
Boomu Women’s Group – a Ugandan Village Visit and Stay:
Boomu Village is a cultural experience near the Murchison Falls Park Area. Here you can visit an African village for a few hours and take a walk. You can also stay overnight in a traditional African Banda.
Go into the gardens to pick the things for lunch and dinner, and work alongside African women, sit with a storyteller of old.
There are a variety of activities that you will learn here, and Boomu is an excellent place for a family on Safari with children – they love Authentic Africa. Children and Teens love learning new skills such as weaving, making jewelry, and making baskets.
Learn how dyes are made from plants and flowers and see them used as the loom to create a cloth fabric, and learn how to make traditional crafts such as baskets. Along the River Nile, while others are in another scenic spot – the choice is yours.
Murchison Falls Park Safaris:
Here are the best Murchison Falls Park Safaris for you. They have not stripped-down versions but include full-board lodging, all activities, and entrance fees into the park.
These private safaris are offered at the lowest price, yet they are not inferior in quality, but full-service safaris for you.
They begin with a one-night stay to more in the park. Murchison Falls Park is the only park in Uganda where a Big-5 Safari is a possibility. Another reason is that the park is now Uganda’s number one park. We love to show you the park with a river running through it, not any River, but the River Nile.
This Park can also be included in a Safari with Kibale Forest and Chimpanzee Trekking or ten days or longer in a safari that provides for most of Uganda’s parks.
Read more here about our Murchison Falls Park Safaris.
Getting to Murchison Falls Park:
Fly to Murchison Falls Parks with AeroLink Safari Airline:
We can arrange for you to fly to Murchison Falls National Park from Entebbe International Airport with a daily 60-minute AeroLink flight, which saves you between five to six hours of drive-time. Your driver guide will meet you at the airstrip and take you to your lodge. At the end of your visit to Murchison Falls, you can either return to Entebbe or continue your Safari by flying to Kasese, which is a short drive to Kibale Forest and northern Queen Elizabeth Park> From here, it is a short drive to Ishasha for the Tree-Climbing Lions and Buhoma in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest for Gorilla Trekking.
Drive to Murchison Falls Park as a singular Safari Park Destination:
The Drive to Entebbe or Kampala can be up to six hours long, and the drive can be broken with a visit to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary with lunch and Rhino Trekking. On the return trip, break up the long drive time with lunch and Chimpanzee Trekking in Budongo Forest.
Furthermore, the drive can also be broken by having lunch at the historic 1923 Masindi Hotel, where luminaries such as Humphrey Bogart, Katharine Hepburn, and director John Huston stayed during the 1951 making. Of “the African Queen.” Ernest Hemingway and his wife Mary stayed here recuperating for a few days after two air crashes. The well-known British Michael Palin while tracing Ernest Hemingway’s time in Uganda.
Include Murchison Falls Park in a longer Safari:
You can include Murchison Falls Park in a longer safari with parks such as Kidepo Valley Park or Kibale Forest.
