Murchison Falls National Park in Uganda

The Heart of the Nile Safari

Overview

Murchison Falls National Park is Uganda’s oldest and largest national park, covering 3,877 km² of diverse ecosystems in the northwestern part of the country.
It lies about 305 km from Kampala and stretches from 625 to 1,300 meters above sea level, divided by the mighty Nile River — the world’s longest river.

This spectacular park is a must-see on any Uganda safari, offering breathtaking landscapes, rich wildlife, and the thundering Murchison Falls, where the Nile forces itself through a narrow gorge before plunging 43 meters into the depths below.

Landscape and Scenery

Murchison Falls National Park showcases the beauty of Uganda’s diverse geography — from open savannah grasslands and acacia woodlands to the lush Rabongo Forest in the south.
While the southern part of the park is more forested and home to primates and birds, the northern section offers the best game drives with abundant wildlife roaming freely across vast plains.

The highlight, of course, is the Murchison Falls themselves. A short trail leads to the top, where the mist of the cascading water and the sunlight often create dazzling rainbows — a perfect photo opportunity and an unforgettable experience.

Murchison Falls with a Rainbow

Wildlife and Game Viewing

Murchison Falls National Park is home to an incredible diversity of animals — making it one of the top destinations for wildlife safaris in East Africa.

Here, you can encounter:

  • Lions, Elephants, Buffaloes, and Leopards – four of the famous Big Five
  • Rothschild’s Giraffes, a rare and endangered subspecies
  • Warthogs, Hartebeests, and several species of Antelopes
  • Hippos and Nile Crocodiles basking along the riverbanks
  • More than 400 species of birds, including the Goliath Heron, Kingfishers, Pelicans, African Fish Eagles, and the elusive Shoebill Stork

Morning and afternoon game drives offer the best chances to spot predators such as lions and leopards. Hiring a park guide is highly recommended — many lions are fitted with trackers, which helps guides locate them more easily and ensures you don’t miss any of the park’s wildlife treasures.

elephants at queen elizabeth national park uganda

Boat Safaris on the Nile

A boat cruise on the Nile River is one of the highlights of visiting Murchison Falls National Park.
These tours take you upriver to the base of the waterfalls, offering incredible views of hippos, crocodiles, elephants, and countless birds from a close yet safe distance.
For photography enthusiasts, sunset cruises on the Nile are simply unforgettable.

Conservation and History

Murchison Falls National Park was established in 1952, making it Uganda’s first national park.
However, during the 1970s, poaching under Idi Amin’s regime devastated wildlife populations — with the elephant population dropping from over 12,000 to around 2,000 individuals.
Thanks to conservation efforts by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) and various partners, the park has made an inspiring recovery and is once again thriving.

Birdwatching Paradise

Bird lovers will find Murchison Falls National Park a true paradise.
Over 450 bird species have been recorded here — from colorful bee-eaters and kingfishers to large storks, cranes, and eagles.
During March and April, you may even spot migratory birds from Europe, making it one of Uganda’s top birdwatching destinations.

The Big Five and Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

While Murchison Falls National Park offers the Big Four, the Rhinoceros can only be seen at the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, located on the route between Kampala and the park.
Visitors can join a guided Rhino trekking tour at Ziwa — the sanctuary entrance fee is USD 45 per person, and the tour lasts around 1.5 to 2.5 hours.
This makes it easy to combine both destinations for a complete Big Five Safari in Uganda.

elephants at queen elizabeth national park uganda

Best Time to Visit Murchison Falls National Park

The dry seasons from June to September and December to March are ideal for visiting.
During these months, wildlife gathers around water sources, and the roads are easily passable.
However, for adventurers, the rainy season (April–May and October–November) offers lush landscapes and fewer tourists — just make sure to travel with a 4×4 vehicle.

Game Drives & Safari Tips

  • Best game viewing times: early morning (from 6:00 AM) and late afternoon (from 4:00 PM)
  • Park entry fee: USD 45 per person (non-residents) + UGX 30,000 per vehicle
  • Opening hours: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM
  • If staying outside the park, enter through the Buliisa Gate in the northwest — it’s close to key game-drive areas.
  • For convenience and extended exploration, consider staying in a lodge within the park.

How to Get There

Murchison Falls National Park is approximately 5–6 hours’ drive from Kampala via the Kampala–Gulu Highway.
The nearest towns are Masindi and Pakwach, where you can refuel and shop before entering the park.
For a faster trip, you can also take a domestic flight from Entebbe to Pakuba Airstrip.

Quick Facts about Murchison Falls National Park

  • Founded: 1952
  • Size: 3,877 km²
  • Altitude: 625–1,300 m above sea level
  • Region: Northwestern Uganda
  • Main attractions: Murchison Falls, Nile River safaris, Big Four, birdwatching
  • Famous for: Rothschild’s Giraffes, Nile boat cruises, and dramatic waterfalls
sunrise at the nile in Murchison Falls

FAQ – Murchison Falls National Park

 

Q1: What is the best time to visit Murchison Falls National Park?
The best time is during the dry seasons (December–February and June–August) when wildlife is easiest to spot and roads are more accessible. Rainy seasons (March–May, October–November) are greener and quieter but can make some trails muddy.

Q2: How do I get to Murchison Falls National Park from Kampala or Entebbe?
The park is about 305 km (4–5 hours) by road from Kampala or Entebbe. You can also fly by chartered plane to Pakuba or Bugungu Airstrip for a faster trip.

Q3: What animals can I see in the park?
Murchison Falls National Park is home to lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards, Rothschild’s giraffes, antelopes, hippos, and Nile crocodiles, plus over 400 bird species.
Note: Rhinos can only be seen at the nearby Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary.

Q4: Are boat safaris available?
Yes. Boat cruises on the Victoria Nile take you to the base of the waterfall and offer close views of hippos, crocodiles, and birds. Trips usually last 2–3 hours and are among the highlights of a visit.

Q5: Can I self-drive or do I need a guide?
You can self-drive, but a local guide is highly recommended. Guides know where animals are most active, track lions and leopards, and ensure a safer and more informative safari experience.

Q6: What should I pack for Murchison Falls National Park?
Bring light clothing, a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, binoculars, and sturdy shoes. During the rainy season, a rain jacket and waterproof shoes are helpful.

Q7: How does the park support conservation and local communities?
The park works with surrounding communities through revenue-sharing projects, cultural experiences, and eco-tourism programs such as the Boomu Women’s Group and Mubako Cultural Camp.