Murchison Falls National Park Travel Guide

A dramatic landscape offering unforgettable safari sightings

Protecting 3840 square kilometres (1480 square miles) of savannah, woodland and riverine forest.

Uganda’s oldest and largest conservation area is a paradise for nature lovers, blending unforgettable wildlife encounters with dramatic landscapes. 

While the thunderous waterfalls formed by the Victoria Nile are an undoubted highlight of this sprawling park in north-western Uganda, the diversity of wildlife waiting to be discovered on safari makes Murchison Falls National Park one of Africa’s premier wildlife destinations.

Murchison Falls is the centrepiece of the park, a breathtaking sight as the Victoria Nile River is forced through a narrow gorge before plunging 45 meters into the Devil’s Cauldron below. Boat cruises upstream offer unforgettable views of the falls, passing hippos, crocodiles, and grazing antelope. Downstream, the Victoria Nile Delta rewards travellers with exceptional birdwatching – 556 bird species have been recorded here – including the chance to see the rare shoebill stork.

On dry land, daily game drives through the grasslands may take in herds of Uganda kob, Jackson’s hartebeest, and Rothschild’s giraffes, while the Budongo Forest offers the unique opportunity to trek in search of chimpanzees.

There are no restaurants in Murchison Falls National Park, but your chosen lodge will delight with memorable culinary experiences. Dine al fresco at the fireside beneath the sweep of African stars, or soak up the aroma of fresh coffee enjoyed on a bush breakfast on a morning drive in the park. Dietary requirements and preferences can be catered for, but advance notice is essential. Please inform us when making your reservation.

There’s no dress code at safari lodges in Murchison Falls National Park, so opt for comfortable cotton clothing in neutral colours. Winter mornings and evenings can be cool, so pack a thermal fleece or windbreaker. Don’t forget high-factor sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and a swimsuit for a dip in the lodge pool. Most lodges have a small in-house boutique with essentials, branded gear, and souvenirs, but be sure to pack your camera, memory cards, and chargers. As lodges are remote, ensure you have sufficient prescription medications to last your trip.

Thanks to its equatorial location, the climate in Murchison Falls National Park varies very little throughout the year, and you can expect warm temperatures year-round. The dry months (December to February and June to August) are best for game drives and boat safaris, with two rainy seasons occurring from roughly March to May and September to November.

Malaria is common across Uganda, so we advise all travellers to take prophylaxis as a precaution. Consult your travel doctor at least three weeks before departure. To reduce the risk of mosquito bites, apply insect repellent and wear long trousers and long-sleeved clothing, especially in the mornings and evenings.

Murchison Falls National Park is located in north-western Uganda. Get your bearings with our travel maps.

The park is located a six-hour drive from Kampala or Entebbe. However, we recommend travellers use a charter flight to Pakuba, Bugungu or Chobe airstrips, followed by a short ground transfer to your lodge.

Uganda Travel Destinations

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