Uganda's largest national park, centered on the mighty Nile River forcing itself through a 7-meter gorge to create the thunderous Murchison Falls. A classic Big Five safari destination.
Overview
Murchison Falls is where the Victoria Nile explodes through a narrow cleft in the Rift Valley escarpment to plunge 43 meters below in a powerful display of nature's force. The park encompasses diverse habitats: the riverine belt along the Nile, open savannah (north of the river), and the lush Budongo Forest (south). It offers robust populations of lions, elephants, giraffes, and the sought-after shoebill stork.
Photo Gallery
Attractions
Murchison Falls ("The Devil's Cauldron"): The main attraction. View from the top or on a boat trip to the base.
Nile Delta: Where the Nile flows into Lake Albert—a prime spot for the shoebill stork.
Budongo Forest: A pristine rainforest offering chimpanzee trekking.
Paraa: The main crossing point for the vehicle ferry across the Nile.
Buligi Game Tracks: Excellent area for spotting lions, giraffes, and elephants.
Activities
Game Drives on the northern bank (Paraa-Buligi area)
Nile Boat Cruises to the base of the falls (and to the delta for shoebill)
Chimpanzee Trekking in Budongo Forest
Hike to the Top of the Falls (from Paraa)
Bird Watching (Over 450 species)
Sport Fishing (Nile perch)
Best Time to Visit
Dry Season (December-February & June-September): Best for game viewing in the northern savannah. Animals are easier to spot, and roads are passable.
Wet Season (March-May & October-November): Lush scenery, great for birding, but some tracks may be muddy or impassable.
How to Get There
By Air: Charter flights from Entebbe/Kajjansi to Pakuba or Bugungu airstrips.
By Road: A 4-5 hour drive from Kampala via Masindi town.
Accommodation
Luxury: Paraa Safari Lodge, Nile Safari Lodge, Chobe Safari Lodge
Mid-Range: Murchison River Lodge, Pakuba Safari Lodge
Budget: Red Chilli Rest Camp, public campsites.
Local Culture
Visit the Boomu Women's Group near Budongo for cultural performances and crafts. The park area is home to the Alur and **
Weather Information
The park is generally hot.
Temperature: Daytime temperatures average 29-33°C (84-91°F). Very hot in the dry season.
Rainfall: Wet seasons can bring heavy downpours.
Safety Tips
Be cautious of baboons and warthogs around lodges; do not feed them.
The Nile has strong currents and hippos/crocs; never swim.
Use a strong insect repellent.
Travel Tips
The vehicle ferry across the Nile at Paraa has a schedule; plan your game drives around it.
The boat cruise to the delta for shoebill viewing requires an early start and is often a separate, longer trip.
Combine a safari drive, boat cruise, and hike to the falls for the full experience.
Location Map
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Quick Information
Uganda
Northwestern Uganda
2.176100, 31.616700
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