Murchison Falls National Park Fees; Entrance and Activity Fees 2025
Whether you are a local or international visitor, understanding the Murchison Falls National Park fees that is the entrance and activity fees is crucial for planning your visit to the park.
These fees are regulated by the Uganda Wildlife Authority and are categorized based on the visitor’s residential status with different rates for East African citizens, foreign residents, and foreign non-residents.
These fees contribute to the conservation of this natural wonder and the maintenance of its infrastructures. Let us provide you a detailed breakdown of the costs associated with visiting Murchison Falls National Park in 2024, ensuring you can budget effectively for your adventure.
Murchison Falls National Park Entrance Fees
The Murchison falls national park entrance fees are charging basing on a number of factors including the visitor’s status, type of vehicle or any other means of transport like a ferry or boat used to explore the park, among others. These include;
Individual Park Entrance Fees;
| Category | Foreign nonresidents (FNR) | Foreign Residents (FR) | East African Citizens (EAC) |
| Adult | $45 | $35 | UGX 25,000 |
| Children 5-15 Yrs | $20 | $10 | UGX 10,000 |
| Students | $10 | $5 | UGX 3,000 |
Note that;
- All visitors are required to present valid identification documents like passports, student IDs or National IDs to prove their status.
- Park entrance fees are charged individually meaning they are nontransferable and are valid for 24 hours from the date of their activation.
- Park entrance fees allow you access to the park’s main grounds but not access to specific park adventurous activities like game drives, launch cruise, birding among others.
Murchison Falls National Park Vehicle Entrance Fees;
In addition to individual entrance fees, visitors driving to the park are required to pay for their vehicle entrance fee which varies depending on the status that’s foreign registered or Uganda registered and the size of the vehicle. Below is the breakdown;
| Category | Foreign Registered Cars ($) | Uganda Registered cars(Ugx) |
| 4×4 cars | $150 | 30,000 |
| Mini Buses | $50 | 30,000 |
| Pick-Ups | $50 | 30,000 |
| Buses & Lorries | $150 | 150,000 |
| Motorcycles | $5 | 10,000 |
| Saloon cars | $40 | 20,000 |
| School buses | – | 50,000 |
Murchison Falls National Park Boat Landing Fees
Boats to Murchison Falls National Park are charged a specific fee to be allowed accessed to the park premises basing on their carrying capacity. Below is a break down;
| Category | Foreign Registered Cars ($) | Uganda Registered cars(Ugx) |
| Boats up to 15 seats | $50 | UGX 50,000 |
| Launch boat with over 15 seats | $100 | UGX 150,000 |
| MFIFT boats up to 15 seats | $50 | 50,000 |
| MIFT boat over 15 seats | $100 | 150,000 |
| Boat parking fee | 10,000 per day |
Murchison Falls National Park Activity Fees
Murchison Falls National Park offers a variety of outdoor adventurous activities ranging from game drives,boat cruises, sport fishing, hikes, nature walks, and birding, among others each coming with a unique experience ensuring that it has something exciting for every traveler to its destination.
These activities are charged separately from the entrance fee and they offer visitors an exceptional opportunity to explore and immerse themselves in the park’s natural beauty. Below is a detailed of the costs of each activity;
Game Drives; These are one of the most sought-after activities by tourists to this destination offering them an exceptional opportunity to catch glimpses of different animal species such as elephants, buffaloes, lions and other wildlife residing in the park.
The cost of a game drive in Murchison Falls National Park typically depends on whether you using your own vehicle, or hiring a park guide who is UGX 30,000 for a half-day and 50,000 for a full day. A private game drive in the park costs USD 20 for both foreign and foreign non-residents and 20,000 for East African Citizens.
Costs of Game Drives
| Category | Foreign non-residents($) | Foreign Residents($) | East African Citizen (Ugx) |
| Day Game Drive per guide | $25 | $20 | UGX 25,000 |
| Night Game Drives per person | $40 | $35 | UGX 40,000 |
| Self Game drive | $10 | $10 | 10,000 |
Boat Cruises; A Boat cruise is one of the popular activities enjoyed by adventurers to the Murchison Falls National Park. It takes you to explore the most powerful waterfall in the world, passing through areas featuring different animals such as crocodiles, hippos, water-wading birds, and different fish species among others offering an enjoyable wildlife experience.
A private boat cruise on Murchison Falls National Park costs between USD 30 and USD 40 per person based on the operator and a UWA boat cruise costs USD 30 per person for both foreign residents and non-residents and 30,000 for East African Citizens.
Hikes to the top of the Falls costs USD 15 for foreign nonresidents per person, USD 10 for foreign residents ,and UGX 10, 000 for East African Citizens per individual. This fee includes a guide who will lead you through the trails to the top, ensuring your safety.
Sport Fishing permits of Murchison Falls National Park costs USD 50 dollars per person per day and USD 150 for four days. Hiring a private fishing boat costs USD 150 to USD 300 per day depending on the operator and fishing gear provided.
Chimpanzee tracking in Budongo forest costs USD 80 per person offering visitors an exceptional opportunity to track the fascinating chimps in their natural habitats. This fee includes the services of an English-speaking park guide.
White water Rafting costs at Murchison Falls National Park cost USD 50 for both foreign residents and foreign nonresidents and UGX 50,000 for East African Citizens.
Murchison Falls National Park Camping & Accomodation fees
Murchison Falls National Park offers a range of camping and accommodation options to suit different budgets. For campers, fees are relatively affordable, with designated campsites available at both budget-friendly and mid-range rates.
These campsites are equipped with basic amenities, offering a more rustic experience. For those seeking more comfort, the park features lodges and luxury accommodations, such as Paraa Safari Lodge and Red Chilli Rest Camp, which offer higher-end amenities and stunning views of the Nile.
Accommodation prices vary depending on the season and level of service, with discounts sometimes available for longer stays or off-peak periods.
Exemptions and Discounts
Certain groups in the park are eligible for exemptions or discounts on entrance and different activities. For example children under 5 years of age are exempt from entrance fees. Large groups, educational tours, and charity organizations often qualify for discounted rates.
For frequent visitors, multi-day passes or annual park passes can provide significant savings. Special promotions or offers may also be available during off-peak seasons, reducing rates for accommodation and activities like boat safaris or game drives.
Some seasons like low travel seasons may come with a discounted rate as well so we advise you to always check with UWA or your tour operator for any applicable discounts.
Payment Methods.
All these fees can be paid directly through Uganda Wildlife Authority offices, at the park’s main entry points, or through licensed tour operators. Cash in Uganda shillings or dollars is accepted and credit or debit card transactions.
However, due to poor internet connectivity in remote areas, we advise you to move with enough cash as a backup so that you don’t miss out.
Best Murchison Falls National Park tour packages?
Best time to visit Murchison Falls National Park
The best time to visit Murchison Falls National Park is during the dry seasons, from December to February and June to September. During this period, Wildlife is easier to spot as animals often gather around water sources, and roads are more accessible offering seamlesss and enjoyable wildlife experience. These months also offer excellent conditions for game drives and boat safaris.
About Murchison Falls National Park
Murchison Falls National Park is Uganda’s largest national park, covering 3,893 square kilometers of diverse landscapes, from rolling savannahs to dense forests. It is home to the iconic Murchison Falls, where the mighty Nile River squeezes through a 7-meter-wide gorge, creating a thunderous waterfall—one of the most powerful in the world.
What animals are in Murchison Falls Uganda?
The park boasts an abundance of wildlife, including the Big Five—lions, elephants, leopards, buffaloes, and the reintroduced white rhinos at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary. Other incredible species include giraffes, hippos, crocodiles, and antelopes, making it one of the best places for game drives and boat safaris.
A boat cruise on the Nile offers breathtaking views of hippos, crocodiles, and water birds, while a hike to the top of Murchison Falls provides a spectacular vantage point. Chimpanzee trekking in Budongo Forest is another highlight for primate lovers.
For the best experience, consider a 3-day or 5-day Murchison Falls safari, combining wildlife viewing, Nile cruises, and waterfall exploration. With its stunning landscapes and incredible biodiversity, Murchison Falls National Park is a must-visit for any traveler seeking an unforgettable Uganda safari adventure!
Murchison Falls National Park location
Murchison Falls National Park is located in northwestern Uganda, straddling the Nile River. It covers an area of about 3,893 square kilometers and lies in the districts of Kiryandongo, Nwoya, and Buliisa.
The park is easily accessible from Masindi town, approximately 85 km away. It is Uganda’s largest national park and renowned for the powerful Murchison Falls, where the Nile River dramatically plunges through a narrow gorge.
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Cheap accommodation at Murchison Falls National Park
Accommodation prices at Murchison Falls National Park vary based on the type of lodging and amenities offered. Here’s a breakdown of the options:
Budget Accommodations: These lodges offer basic amenities and are ideal for travelers seeking affordability. Prices typically range from $40 to $100 per night. Examples include Red Chilli Rest Camp and Boomu Women’s Group Bandas.
Mid-Range Accommodations: Providing a balance between comfort and cost, these lodges offer enhanced facilities. Nightly rates usually fall between $100 to $250. Notable options are Murchison River Lodge and Pakuba Safari Lodge.
Luxury Accommodations: For a premium experience, luxury lodges feature top-tier amenities and services. Prices range from $250 to $500 per night. Renowned luxury lodges include Nile Safari Lodge and Chobe Safari Lodge.
Please note that these prices are approximate and subject to change. It’s advisable to contact the lodges directly or consult with a travel agency for the most current rates and availability.
Murchison Falls National Park booking
To book a visit to Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda’s largest and oldest conservation area, you’ll need to arrange both park entry and accommodations. Here’s how you can proceed:
1. Park Entry Permits: The Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) manages park entry permits. It’s advisable to contact UWA directly or through a licensed tour operator to obtain the necessary permits. This ensures compliance with park regulations and supports conservation efforts.
2. Accommodation Options: Murchison Falls National Park offers a range of lodging options to suit various budgets:
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Luxury Lodges: For a premium experience, consider Nile Safari Lodge or Chobe Safari Lodge, offering top-tier amenities and stunning views of the Nile River.
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Mid-Range Lodges: Murchison River Lodge and Pakuba Safari Lodge provide comfortable accommodations with excellent service.
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Budget Options: Red Chilli Rest Camp and Murchison Falls Bamboo Village offer affordable stays without compromising on the safari experience.
You can explore and book these accommodations through platforms like Booking.com or contact the lodges directly.
3. Guided Safari Packages: For a seamless experience, consider booking a guided safari package. Tour operators handle logistics, including transportation, accommodations, and guided activities. For example, a 3-Day Murchison Falls Safari offers game drives, boat cruises on the Nile, and visits to the top of the falls. Details can be found on SafariBookings.com.
4. Transportation: The park is approximately 305 kilometers north of Kampala. Travelers can opt for road transport, which offers scenic views of the Ugandan countryside, or domestic flights to airstrips near the park. Tour operators often include transportation in their packages.
5. Additional Activities: Beyond wildlife viewing, activities such as boat cruises, nature walks, and cultural visits to nearby communities can enrich your safari experience.
For more detailed information and assistance with bookings, consider reaching out to the Murchison Falls National Park official website or consult with licensed Ugandan tour operators to tailor your safari to your preferences.
Embarking on a safari in Murchison Falls National Park promises an unforgettable adventure amidst Uganda’s rich natural heritage.
What time does the Murchison Falls open?
Murchison Falls National Park operates daily from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM. Visitors are required to enter and exit the park within these hours. It’s advisable to plan your journey accordingly to ensure compliance with these timings, as no exceptions are made regarding park opening and closing hours Uganda Wildlife Authority.
The park has several entry gates, including Chobe, Wankar, Tangi, Mubako, and Kichumbanyobo. Each gate serves different regions of the park, so it’s important to choose the one closest to your accommodation or planned activities.
If you’re part of a guided tour, your driver will likely know the best route to take to your chosen entrance gate. Simply inform them of your preferred gate, and ensure you leave during park opening hours to avoid any issues with park entry.
If you need assistance planning your visit or have questions about specific activities within the park, feel free to ask!