Murchison Falls National Park

Adventures on the Nile, untamed landscapes, the Big Five and many other bird and mammal species: Murchison Falls National Park is known for its unspoilt and diverse natural beauty. It’s best you see for yourself, during hikes with or without chimpanzees and during safaris onshore, on the water or in the sky.

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Murchison Falls National Park

A Beauty Spot

Murchison Falls National Park is situated in northern Uganda, covering an area of approximately 3,893 square kilometers (1,503 square miles). Okay, it might not be as big as other African parks – however, with its magnificent landscapes and remarkable wildlife it knows how to compensate that lack in size.

Murchison’s Treasures

Step into Murchison Falls National Park, and you’ll be instantly captivated by the untamed wonders that stretch as far as the eye can see. The park is divided by the great Nile River, and it’s the incredible Murchison Falls giving the park its name. Get carried away by the river’s raw power (metaphorically) as it squeezes through a 7-metre-wide gorge and plunges into a churning cauldron below. Wow? Yes, wow!

Wildlife Encounters

During a safari at Murchison Falls National Park you’ll get to discover countless animals: from elephants, buffalos, lions and leopards (boom, four of the Big Five) to giraffes, zebras and countless antelope species. Crocodiles and hippos relax along the Nile’s banks, and bird enthusiasts can indulge in the sight of over 450 bird species, including the enigmatic shoebill. And should you have a weakness for primates, you can experience a very special meet-and-greet during a chimpanzee trekking tour.

Adventures on the Nile

The Nile is the lifeblood of Murchison Falls National Park. Observe the animals during a boat safari literally from a different point of view, let elephant herds playing in the water entertain you and feel your eyes getting bigger and bigger as you spot the first crocodiles at the riverbanks.

Baker’s Trail

Follow the traces of Sir Samuel and Lady Florence Baker, the famous British explorer couple who discovered Murchison Falls in 1864. Hiking on the Baker’s Trail you can immerse yourself in this unique bit of history and discover the raw beauty of the park.

Common Animals in Murchison Falls National Park

  • Lions
  • Leopards
  • Giraffes
  • Chimpanzees (in the Budongo Forest Reserve)
  • Hippos
  • Nile Crocodiles
  • Elephants
  • Buffalos
  • Oribis
  • Antelopes (Various species)
  • Jackson’s Hartebeests
  • Waterbucks
  • Baboons
  • Warthogs
  • Over 450 bird species
  • Uganda Kobs
Giraffes Murchison Falls

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Facts about Murchison Falls National Park

The Big Five: Murchison Falls is one of the few places in Uganda where you can encounter the Big Five: lions, leopards, elephants, buffalos, and rhinoceros (in the adjacent Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary).

Murchison Falls: At the park’s heart, the Nile runs through a narrow gorge, creating the breathtaking Murchison Falls – a stunning picture you’ll remember forever.

Activities in Murchison Falls National Park

Murchison Falls National Park is a playground for adventure and wildlife enthusiasts. Here are some of the activities that will make your visit truly memorable:

  • Game Drives
  • Boat Safaris
  • Hiking to the Top of Murchison Falls
  • Bird Watching
  • Chimpanzee Trekking
  • Fishing
  • Hot Air Balloon Safaris

How to get there

By road: Fancy a roadtrip? Perfect! This park is easy and well accessible. That’s also why it’s a must for adventurers who want to explore Uganda on their own.

By air: Of course, a flight to Murchison Falls National Park is quicker and more convenient. There are flight services available from both Mombasa and Nairobi to Pakuba Airport (also known as Murchison Falls National Park Airport). A short flight allows you to maximize your time in the wilderness.

Climate

Cold season: The period from June to November is considered the cold season in Uganda. During this time, average daytime temperatures hover around 20°C, but the nights can be chilly. Best you pack a sweater or light jacket for the cooler evenings.

Rainy seasons: Uganda experiences two rainy seasons. The short rainy season typically occurs from mid-October to November, while the long rainy season extends from April to May.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Murchison Falls National Park is during the dry seasons, which typically occur from December to February and from June to September.

The rainy seasons bring occasional showers, and the park’s road conditions can become more challenging. However, if you don’t mind a bit of rain, you can see nature flourish during your visit, literally.

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12-Days Uganda: Off the beaten track

Kampala – Sipi Falls – Moroto – Kidepo Valley National Park – Murchison Falls National Park – Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary
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16-days Uganda: All pearls of Uganda

Jinja – Sipi Falls – Moroto/Karamajong – Kidepo Valley National Park – Murchison Falls National Park – Kibale National Park – Queen Elizabeth National Park – Bwindi Impenetrable National Park – Lake Mburo National Park
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