3 Days Murchison Falls Safari | Uganda’s Best Wildlife & Waterfall Adventure
3 Days Murchison Falls National Park Safari: Embark on an unforgettable 3 Days Murchison Falls National Park Safari, an adventure through Uganda’s largest and oldest national park, home to incredible wildlife, dramatic landscapes, and the world’s strongest waterfall.
Perfect for first-time visitors and wildlife enthusiasts, this short Uganda safari combines thrilling game drives, a breathtaking boat cruise along the Nile, and a visit to the iconic Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary.
A Uganda game drive in this vast savannah national park offers an opportunity to spot an impressive array of wildlife, including warthogs, Rothschild’s giraffes, elephants, Defassa waterbucks, roan antelopes, hippos, duikers, Uganda kobs, bushbucks, topis, spotted hyenas, oribis, olive baboons, and vervet monkeys.
The northwestern-based Murchison Falls National Park stands out for its magnificent scenery that includes Murchison Falls (the strongest waterfall in the whole world), tropical rainforest, woodland, vast savannah plains, and wetlands. It is also a birding paradise with over 500 species of birds.
Why Choose Murchison Falls National Park?
Located in northwestern Uganda, Murchison Falls National Park covers over 3,840 sq km of diverse habitats, including savannah, tropical rainforest, and wetlands. It is famous for:
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Murchison Falls – The most powerful waterfall in the world, where the Nile squeezes through a 7-meter gap.
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Abundant wildlife – Lions, elephants, leopards, buffaloes, giraffes, Uganda kobs, and over 500 bird species.
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Big Five safari experience – With a stop at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, you can track white rhinos and complete your Big Five sightings.
Highlights of the 3 Days Murchison Falls National Park Safari
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Guided game drives in the northern sector of the park.
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Rhino tracking at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary.
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Scenic boat cruise to the bottom of Murchison Falls.
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Optional hike to the top of the falls for panoramic views.
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Exceptional birdwatching opportunities, including the rare shoebill stork.
3 Days Murchison Falls National Park Safari Brief itinerary
- Day 1: Arrive in Murchison Falls National Park and explore Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary.
- Day 2: Game drive & boat ride to the bottom of the falls.
- Day 3: Kampala, depart Uganda.
Detailed itinerary for the 3 Days Murchison Falls National Park Safari
Day 1: Kampala – Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary – Murchison Falls National Park
Begin this 3-day trip in Kampala, where you will be picked up by the private safari guide for the drive to Murchison Falls National Park.
Start by driving through the city and go through different towns, including Luwero, Nakasongola, and Masindi.
Talking of Nakasongola, you will havestop at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary for an unforgettable white rhino tracking experience while at the same time getting a chance to see Defassa waterbucks, Uganda Kobs, hippos, and bushbucks, among others. Have your lunch break at Amuka Safari Lodge and go on until Murchison Falls National Park, arriving in the evening for dinner and overnight.
Overnight stay:
- Luxury: Nile Safari Lodge or Chobe Safari Lodge.
- Midrange: Pakuba Safari Lodge.
- Budget: Red Chilli Camp.
Travel time: 7-8 hours
Meal Plan: Lunch and Dinner.
Day 2: Game Drive & Nile Boat Cruise
After breakfast, you will travel from the Safari Lodge to the heart of Murchison Falls National Park, where Defassa waterbucks, warthogs, Rothschild giraffes, lions, common elands, Uganda kobs, Jackson hartebeests, spotted hyenas, topis, leopards, and oribis, among others, will be sighted.
Aided by an experienced park ranger, you will be able to spot most animals in the park.
After 3-4 hours of game driving, get back to the Lodge for siesta and lunch before getting the chance to enjoy boat cruise to the bottom of Murchison Falls.
Bird species like pied kingfishers, pelicans, malachite kingfishers, grey-crowned cranes, saddle-billed storks, and African fish eagles will be sighted, not forgetting animals-—hippos, Nile crocodiles, elephants, buffaloes, and monitor lizards—along the banks of the Nile.
Overnight stay:
- Luxury: Nile Safari Lodge or Chobe Safari Lodge.
- Midrange: Pakuba Safari Lodge.
- Budget: Red Chilli Camp.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.
Activities of the day: Game drive & Boat ride.
Day 3: Kampala, Depart Uganda
Enjoy your breakfast and start your journey back to Kampala. Leave the lodge with a packed lunch and continue driving with lots of magnificent views along the way, arriving in Kampala late afternoon.
Meal Plan: Breakfast and Lunch.
End of 3 Days to Murchison Falls National Park
BOOK THIS SAFARI
The 3 Days Murchison Falls National Park Safari trip includes
- Park entry fees.
- Boat ride to the bottom of the falls.
- Game viewing.
- Relevant government taxes.
- Rhino tracking permit.
- Bottled water.
- Transport by a comfortable safari jeep.
- Ranger guide fees.
- 2 nights’ accommodation in only the best lodge.
The 3 Days Murchison Falls National Park Safari trip excludes
- Kampala Hotel fees.
- Domestic & international airfares.
- Personal expenses in the form of cigarettes, visa fees, souvenirs, gratuities, and personal insurance.
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About Murchison Falls National Park
Embark on a thrilling game drive in Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda’s largest and oldest national park, where savanna plains teem with wildlife.
Covering 3,840 sq km, this park, bisected by the Victoria Nile, offers a front-row seat to see four of the Big Five—lions, leopards, elephants, and buffaloes—plus giraffes, hippos, Uganda kobs, and over 450 bird species, including the elusive shoebill stork.
Morning drives (6:30 AM) catch active animals, while evening drives (4:00 PM) offer stunning sunsets.
Night drives reveal nocturnal creatures like hyenas and leopards, guided by rangers with spotlights.
The Buligi, Albert, and Victoria tracks, especially the wildlife-rich Buligi Peninsula, ensure diverse sightings.
Best Time to Visit Murchison Falls National Park
The park is open year-round, but the dry seasons (December–February and June–September) are ideal for wildlife viewing. The wet seasons (March–May and October–November) offer lush landscapes and excellent birdwatching.
Preparation Tips:
Pack lightweight, neutral-colored clothing (avoid blue, white, or black to deter tsetse flies), sturdy hiking boots, sunscreen, insect repellent, and binoculars.
A 4WD pop-up safari vehicle ensures comfort and clear views. Stay hydrated with bottled water and follow your guide’s instructions for safety.
A yellow fever vaccination card is recommended, and moderate fitness helps navigate the 2-4-hour drives.
Journey from Kampala to Murchison Falls National Park:
The 305 km drive from Kampala to the park headquarters at Paraa takes 4-6 hours via Masindi or Karuma-Pakwach routes.
The tarmac road to Masindi transitions to well-maintained murram roads, offering scenic views of rolling hills and villages.
Stop at the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary en route to track white rhinos on foot, completing your Big Five experience.
Alternatively, a 1-hour flight from Entebbe or Kajjansi to Pakuba or Bugungu airstrips adds convenience.
Attractions Along the Way:
Beyond Ziwa, marvel at Karuma Falls, where the Nile roars through rocks, attracting baboons and birds. In Masindi, enjoy local eateries for a quick lunch break.
Nearby Attractions to Combine with Your Safari
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Budongo Forest: Chimpanzee trekking
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Karuma Falls: Scenic stopover
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Kidepo Valley National Park: Remote wilderness adventure
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Queen Elizabeth National Park: Tree-climbing lions and Kazinga Channel
Murchison Falls National Park Entrance Fees:
Non-residents pay $45/day, foreign residents $35, and East Africans 25,000 UGX. Night drives cost $30-$40 extra.
Why It’s Rewarding:
This game drive delivers raw, unfiltered nature—herds of elephants by the Nile, lions stalking prey, and vibrant birdlife. Your visit supports conservation and local communities, making every moment a meaningful adventure.
Why Book Your Safari With Us?
We specialize in tailor-made Uganda safaris, offering competitive prices, expert local guides, comfortable 4×4 safari vehicles, and handpicked lodges.
Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly safari or a luxury African experience, we customize each trip to suit your travel style.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: How much does a 3-day Murchison Falls Safari cost?
Prices start from $650 per person (budget) and can go up to $1,500 per person (luxury) depending on accommodation and optional activities.
Q2: Is Murchison Falls National Park safe?
Yes, the park is safe for tourists with experienced guides ensuring your security throughout the trip.
Q3: Can I combine this safari with other destinations?
Absolutely! Popular add-ons include Kibale Forest (chimpanzees), Queen Elizabeth National Park, and Jinja (Source of the Nile).
Q4: What animals will I see?
Expect to spot lions, leopards, elephants, buffaloes, Rothschild giraffes, Uganda kobs, hippos, and over 500 bird species.
Q5: Do I need a visa for Uganda?
Most travelers require an Uganda tourist visa ($50). Apply online before arrival.
Book Your 3 Days Murchison Falls Safari Today!
Ready to experience the best of Uganda’s wildlife and nature? Contact us to customize your 3-day Murchison Falls safari – whether for a solo trip, family holiday, or romantic getaway.