Murchison Falls National Park
Murchison Falls National Park is Uganda’s largest national park and a premier safari destination, celebrated for its spectacular Murchison Falls, abundant wildlife, and the mighty River Nile. The park’s diverse landscapes range from acacia woodlands and savannah to riverine forests, supporting a wide variety of animals and over 450 bird species.
Key attractions and activities
Murchison Falls and boat safaris
The park is named after the iconic Murchison Falls, where the entire volume of the Victoria Nile is forced through a narrow 7-meter gorge before plunging 45 meters down.
- Boat cruise to the bottom of the falls: A boat trip up the Nile offers incredible wildlife viewing, with many animals and birds congregating at the riverbanks. You can see large numbers of hippos and huge Nile crocodiles, as well as elephants and buffaloes.
- Hike to the top of the falls: For a more sensory experience, a guided hike from the river’s edge takes you to the top of the falls, where you can feel the thunderous power of the water and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views.
Game drives
Game drives are concentrated in the northern section of the park, which features open savannah grasslands ideal for spotting animals.
- Buligi game track: This peninsula between the Albert and Victoria Nile is a prime game-viewing area. It is home to animals such as giraffes, elephants, lions, leopards, and Uganda kobs.
- Delta area: At the Nile-Lake Albert Delta, you can spot waterbirds and predators lurking near the water’s edge.
- Chobe sector: This northeastern part of the park features different scenery and is another excellent area for game viewing.
Chimpanzee tracking in Budongo Forest
The Budongo Forest Reserve, part of the Murchison Falls Conservation Area, offers guided chimpanzee tracking excursions. The forest is also home to other primates and diverse birdlife. A similar experience is available in the Kaniyo Pabidi Forest, known for its extensive mahogany and ironwood trees.
While there are no rhinos within Murchison Falls National Park itself, the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is located en route from Kampala. It is the only place in Uganda to see white rhinos in the wild and can be added as a stopover to complete a “Big Five” safari experience. Visitors can go on a guided rhino trek on foot.
Birdwatching
With over 450 species recorded, the park is a birdwatcher’s paradise. The Albert Nile Delta is particularly famous as one of the most reliable places to spot the prehistoric-looking shoebill stork.
Accessibility and travel
