Murchison Falls National Park

Murchison Falls National Park: lies at the northern end of the Albertine Rift Valley.  As a matter of fact, it was first gazetted as a game reserve in 1926 leading to its Uganda’s largest and oldest conservation area. Additionally, the park hosts over 76 species of mammals as well as  different bird species

Besides that, the Nile plunges 45m over the remnant rift valley wall, creating the dramatic falls.  For that reason, named the world’s most strongest waterfalls. In fact the stretch of the river provides one of Uganda’s most remarkable wildlife regular visitors to the riverbanks.

What to do here
A walk to the Top of the falls in the park

If you are interested in visiting the top of the falls, you can surely take a walk to this place. Here, you will be uninterrupted by clearer views of these powerful waterfalls. You will as well closely see the narrow gorge / gap through which the water plunges.

Wildlife safaris and game drives in the park

Without doubt, you will get a chance to encounter various wild animals. These include the buffaloes, waterbucks, elephants, lions, leopards, oribis, hartebeests, giraffes etc. On the other hand, game drives are conducted in very comfortable vehicles led by our experienced and highly knowledgeable safari guides.

Nature walks while in the park

As a result, there are various different trails along where visitors get a chance to explore this natural wildlife. Since nature walks are conducted on foot, you will come closer to encounter birds, butterflies, plant species etc.

Chimpanzees in Budongo Forest
Sport fishing in the park

Generally, this is among the leading parks where sport fishing is conducted. This activity is currently carried out mainly at the base of the falls. Fishing along the Nile is an exciting experience however, you are advised to take caution of the Hippos and Nile Crocodiles.

Boat/launch trips in the park

Basically, this is a 3 hours’ boat ride along the course of the magnificent River Nile to the bottom of the waterfalls. During this activity, you will ride close to the river banks getting a chance to have an up close view of the different wildlife.

Animals to see include the giant Nile Crocodiles, hippos, buffaloes, giant elephants and the great profusion of water bird species. Among these are Kingfishers, Shoebill stork, wild ducks, Cormorants, Fish Eagles, Herons as well as the Bee-eaters.

Chimpanzee tracking in Budongo Forest

While here, you will get a chance to trek chimpanzees in Kaniyo Pabipi area within Budongo Forest Reserve. Nevertheless, during the trekking activity you can encounter a number of other primates and different bird species. 

Hot Air Balloon in the park

Actually, this activity can only be done in here and Queen Elizabeth National Park in Uganda. However, only 8 passengers are permitted and children of 6 years and below are excluded. Since the balloon goes as high as 10000 ft. above sea level, it leaves them uneasy.

Furthermore, you are briefed about the safety precautions, rules and regulations. When up there, you will be able to have great views of the Savannah, teaming up with all kinds of wildlife. Thereafter, rewarded with certificates that shows participation.

Then later, you will finish off with a special bush breakfast and a bottle of Champagne. This kind of activity is perfect for those in honeymoon and seeking a once in a lifetime adventure. For sure, the Hot air ballooning is one of the things that should not be missed out.

Birds in Murchison National Park
Bird watching in the park

Similarly, there is a list of birds that have been recorded present here and these are approximately 451 different species. Some of the commonly seen are: the White-rumped Seed eater. Rey-crowned Crane, Blue-napped Mouse bird, Vitelline Masked Weaver,

Spotted owls, African Skimmer. Verreaux’s Owls, Long-toed Plover, Bluff-bellied Warbler, Green-winged Ptyilia, Spotted Mourning Thrush. Goliath Heron, Black-headed Gonolek, Pel’s Fishing Owl, Silver Bird, African Fish Eagle. Saddle-billed Stork, Black-headed Batis Nightjars not to mention but a few.

Boomu Cultural Village Experience

These are found near the Park and the word “Boomu” means “Together”. You will experience how people in the rural areas of Uganda live. In short, it is aiming at reducing poverty and enabling children go to school through making different materials for selling.

This group started with making crafts but later improved into a tourism community project. In addition, it has led to amazing village guided visits, gardens and traditionally made accommodation. In summary, the community provides one of the best cultural experience while in Murchison falls.  

How to get there/Accommodation/Related safaris
Best time to Visit this place

All in all, this Park can be visited throughout the year. But to get the most rewarding views, we recommend that you visit during the dry season. Above all, in this season most of the wild animals get out of their hideouts and converge at the different waterholes.

Where to sleep while in the park?

Finally, the place has got a lot of lodges, camps & hotels for accommodation ranging from luxury, budget and mid-range. These are available both inside and outside the park. You can book your accommodation through our company and early bookings are advised.

Accommodation in Murchison falls national park

Luxury lodges
  • Chobe safari lodge
  • Paraa safari lodge
  • Pakuba safari lodge
Mid-range lodges
  • Sambiya river lodge
  • Nile safari lodge
  • Murchison river lodge
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