Murchison Falls National Park
Located in northwestern Uganda, Murchison Falls National Park is Uganda’s largest and oldest conservation area, where the mighty River Nile explodes through a narrow 7-meter gorge, creating the dramatic Murchison Falls — one of the most powerful waterfalls on Earth.
The park combines breathtaking landscapes, classic savannah wildlife, river cruises, and lush forests, offering one of the most well-rounded safari experiences in East Africa.
Location
By road: ~5–6 hours from Kampala or Entebbe
By air: Flights to Pakuba or Chobe Airstrips from Entebbe
Best Time to Visit
December to February and June to September: Dry seasons ideal for game viewing and river activities
Rainy seasons (March–May, October–November) offer fewer crowds but trickier roads
Wildlife & Activities
Nile River Boat Safari
Cruise up the Nile to the base of Murchison Falls
See hippos, crocodiles, and herds of elephants coming to drink
Offers unique views of the falls and a great chance to spot riverine birds
Hike to the Top of the Falls
Short but steep trail from the boat landing to the top
View the thunderous falls from above — an unforgettable sensory experience
Primate Walk – Budongo Forest
Home to chimpanzees, black-and-white colobus, red-tailed monkeys
Ideal for those who want a taste of primate tracking without heading south
Game Drives
Rich wildlife sightings including elephants, giraffes, buffalo, lions, leopards, Jackson’s hartebeest, and oribis
Early morning and late afternoon drives are ideal
Shoebill stork sightings possible in the Delta area
Birdwatching
Over 450 species recorded
Top highlights: Shoebill, Goliath heron, African fish eagle, Giant kingfisher, Abyssinian ground hornbill
Birding hot spots: Nile Delta, Budongo Forest, Royal Mile
Perfect For
First-time safari-goers
Big game and bird lovers
Families and groups
Adventure travelers who enjoy active experiences
Those who want to combine falls, Nile, and wildlife in one destination