Murchison Falls

Murchison Falls National Park is Uganda’s largest national park, famous for the spectacular Nile waterfalls, vast herds of wildlife in the savannah, and thrilling boat safaris. Here, tropical rainforest, wide grasslands and the mighty Nile converge.

Wildlife in Murchison Falls National Park
Sunset in the park
Elephant herd in Murchison Falls National Park
Rainbow over the roaring waterfall
Buffalo in the park
Lion sitting on a rock
Giraffes walking through the national park
Murchison Falls Murchison Falls
year-round year-round
Midrange price level Midrange price level
2–3 Days 2–3 Days

Murchison Falls National Park lies in northwestern Uganda and covers approximately 3,890 km². It is Uganda’s largest national park and is defined by the Nile, which squeezes through a gorge only seven meters wide and plunges over 40 meters down the spectacular Murchison Falls.

The park encompasses savannahs, tropical forests, and extensive river landscapes. More than 76 mammal species and over 450 bird species live here. The Victoria Nile cuts through the area, creating sections with rapids, waterfalls and calm pools that offer perfect photo opportunities. Murchison Falls is also part of the Albertine Rift Valley, a region of particularly high biodiversity.

animals-murchison-falls

Wildlife in Murchison Falls National Park

The park is home to large herds of elephants, buffaloes, Uganda kobs, and giraffes. Lions and leopards are also present, often in the southern savannahs. Hippos and Nile crocodiles populate the banks of the Nile, while rare birds like the shoebill stork can be found in the swamps. Waterbucks, oribis, warthogs, and numerous antelope species are frequently seen. Over 450 bird species make the park a hotspot for birdwatchers.

Besides the large animals, Murchison Falls is also home to smaller creatures like mongooses, porcupines, and various reptile species. Particularly impressive is the scene at the waterfalls, where wildlife observation combines with the thundering spectacle of nature.

Highlights

  • 01

    Murchison Falls

    The Nile forces its way through a gorge only seven meters wide before plunging dramatically 43 meters down – an unforgettable natural spectacle and the heart of the park.

  • 02

    Boat Safari

    From the boat, you can observe hippos, crocodiles, and many bird species. The trip offers fantastic photo opportunities and takes you right to the base of the waterfalls.

  • 03

    Nile Delta at Lake Albert

    In the north of the park, the Nile empties into the delta of Lake Albert. This area is a hidden gem for bird enthusiasts and impresses with wide reed beds and a unique landscape.

  • 04

    Bird Paradise

    With more than 450 bird species, including rare species like the shoebill stork, the park is one of the best places for birding in East Africa.

Activities

Game Drive

Explore the vast savannahs on a thrilling game drive.

Safari in Murchison Falls National Park

Boat Safari

Cruise up the Nile to the thundering Murchison Falls.

Boat safari in Murchison Falls National Park

Walking Safari

Hike along the Nile and experience the power of Murchison Falls up close.

Hike to Murchison Falls

Birdwatching

Discover colorful birds and look out for rare species.

Birdwatching in Murchison Falls National Park

Getting There

By Car

By Car

From Kampala, you can reach Murchison Falls National Park in about 5 to 6 hours via a well-maintained road. The route passes through rural areas and small towns.

By Plane

By Plane

Flights from Entebbe connect the capital to several airstrips in the park, including Pakuba, Chobe, and Bugungu. The flight takes about 1 to 1.5 hours.

Are you ready for your adventure?

Whether it’s a game drive, boat safari, or a hike to the roaring waterfalls – Murchison Falls is an unforgettable highlight of your Uganda trip!

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