Murchison Falls National Park, Location, Activities, Lodges & More
Murchison Falls National Park also known as Kabalega National Park, derives its name from the world’s most powerful waterfall it harbors. It is the oldest and largest national park in Uganda, spanning over four districts that’s Buliisa, Nwoya, Kiryandongo, and Masindi, covering an area of 3,840 square kilometers, bisected by R.Nile from the east to the west covering a distance of 115km.
Murchison Falls National Park is located in the Northwestern region of Uganda, approximately 300 kilometers (186 miles) northwest of Kampala city.
It stretches from the shores of Lake Albert spanning over four districts: Masindi, Kiryandongo, Nwoya, and Buliisa, to the Karuma Falls along the Victoria Nile.
It was established in 1952 following its earlier designation as a game reserve in 1926.
Murchison Falls National Park is featured with a rich biodiversity holding over 73 mammal species inclusive of the Big Fives except rhinos namely elephants, lions, leopards, buffaloes, different antelope species, a variety of Rothschild giraffes, bush kobs, waterbucks, warthogs, hippos and crocodiles, among others making a prime Uganda Wildlife destination.
It is home to a variety of primates holding about 610 chimpanzees olive baboons, red-tailed monkeys, black and white Columbus monkeys, and vervet monkeys. It is one of the best birding destinations in Uganda, holding over 451 bird species, inclusive of 23 species of Albertine rift endemics and notable species such as the Shoebill stork, Goliath heron, African fish eagle, and the majestic grey crowned crane.
It has a variety of tree species riverine forest, and woodland, providing habitats for an array of plant species. The Borassus palm and acacia trees dominate its landscapes.
Must-see attractions in Murchison Falls National Park
Murchison Falls
The spectacular Murchison Falls, where the Nile River explodes through a narrow gorge, is a must-see attraction for all travelers to this destination. Here, the Nile River narrows from 50 meters to a mere 7 meters as it plunges 43 meters down, creating a thunderous roar and a stunning spray of water. This natural spectacle is one of the most powerful surges of water in the world.
Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary
The sanctuary was established in 2005 by the Rhino Fund Uganda and the Uganda Wildlife Authority to reintroduce and protect rhinoceros which had been severely poached during the 1990s due to depletion from their natural habitats in Murchison Falls and Kidepo National Parks where they are currently found. The sanctuary currently holds 22 southern white rhinoceros.
Wildlife
The park’s varied habitats which are featured with lush Savannah, riverine forests, woodlands, and wetlands support a variety of animal species namely giraffes, buffaloes, cheetahs, hyenas, bush-kobs, Hartebeests, lions, elephants, leopards, Rothschild giraffes, among others. Bird species sighted at the park include African jacana, Abyssinian ground hornbill, pitta, malachite kingfisher, shoebill stork, the Goliath heron, the yellow-footed flycatcher, pied giant and so much more adding up to about 451 species.
Top 9 Murchison Falls National Park Activities
Murchison Falls National Park offers a variety of activities to visitors which allows them to experience the park’s unique landscapes and wildlife. Some of the key activities of Murchison National Park include:
Boat Safaris
The boat cruise at the park takes place at the Nile River and Nile Delta. Boating cruising on the Nile to the base of the falls offers magnificent views of hippos, Nile crocodiles, and numerous wading bird species. The Nile delta where the river Nile meets with Lake Albert offers scenic views featured with a variety of bird species.
Bird Watching
Best experienced during guided nature walks, the park has diverse bird species adding up to about 451inclusives of the Albertine rift endemics and the rare species such e Shoebill stork, Goliath heron, African fish eagle, and grey crowned crane making it a birder paradise for spotting different bird species.
Game Drives
Game drives in Murchison Falls National Park are one of the most popular activities enjoyed by travelers to this destination, providing them with opportunities to encounter the park’s wildlife up close. During the drives, different animals are spotted grazing on the savanna plains. Game drives are best done in the early when the animals are very active within their habitats or in the afternoon.
Hiking and Nature Walks
The park is comprised of several well-maintained trails which enables exploration of its diverse ecosystem on foot. Travelers hike to the top of the falls for panoramic views of the park and the falls, feeling its power up close.
They also trek through Rabongo forest or Kaniyo Pabidi forests to catch glimpse of different birds, primates, small vertebrates, flowering plants, and majesty trees, among others making it a very rewarding activity.
Hot Air Balloon Safari
The park offers a hot air balloon safari experience, offering visitors panoramic views of the park’s wildlife, the falls, forest canopy, beautiful landscapes and so much more.
Chimpanzee Tracking
The main area for chimpanzee tracking in Murchison Falls National Park is the Budongo Forest Reserve, located in the southern part of the park.it is a large mahogany forest and a biodiversity hot spot, making it an excellent habitat for chimpanzees and other primates.
They are best seen during guided treks in the morning offering visitors an extraordinary experience, as they hear their loud calls echoing through the forest, and watch them interact, feed, play, and groom each other, among others.
Cultural Experiences
The park offers opportunities where visitors to engage with the local communities around the park to learn about their traditional lifestyles and cultures. While there, visitors enjoy captivating dances, songs, and poems from the local cultural performance groups making it a very rewarding experience.
Launch Trip
This is a 2-hour experience beginning at Paraa offering visitors opportunities to see various water wildlife which includes giant hippos, large numbers of Nile crocodiles wading birds, wildlife by the shores, and stunning views of the falls
Sport Fishing
The Nile River offers visitors amazing sport fishing opportunities, particularly for Nile perch, whereby they try catching mighty fish with their hands and other species with the help of local fishermen offering them the best and most unforgettable experience.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Murchison Falls National Park is during the dry seasons, from December to February and June to September. During these periods, wildlife is more easily spotted as animals gather around water sources, and the roads are more accessible.
How to Get To Murchison Fall National Park
The park is accessible by both road and air transport.
By Road: From Kampala, it’s about a 5-6 hour drive (approximately 305 kilometers) to the park via the Masindi route. The roads are generally good, but a 4×4 vehicle is recommended, especially during the rainy season.
By Air: Domestic flights are available from Entebbe International Airport or Kajjansi Airstrip to Pakuba Airfield, Chobe Airstrip, or Bugungu Airstrip within the park from where to catch a ride to the park headquarters or to your lodges.
A flight from Entebbe Airport or Kajjansi to the airstrips is only an hour making it an ideal choice for those travelers who don’t want to spend much time on the road.
Murchison Falls National Park Entry Fees
As of 2025, Adult foreign nonresidents to Murchison Falls National Park pay USD 40 per individual, children between the ages of 5-15 years pay USD 20 per child, foreign residents pay USD 30, and children USD 10.
Adult East African Community Citizens pay UGX 20,000 per person and children UGX 5000 per day.
Vehicles are also charged to be allowed entry to the park with foreign-registered vehicles paying USD 40 and Ugandan vehicles paying UGX 20,000.
Below is a table summarizing the current entrance and activity fees in USD:
Park Entrance Fees:
Visitor Category | Adult Fee (USD) | Child Fee (USD) |
---|---|---|
Foreign Non-Residents | $45 | $20 |
Foreign Residents | $35 | $10 |
East African Citizens | UGX 25,000 | UGX 10,000 |
*Note: Children are defined as individuals aged 5-15 years.
Vehicle Entrance Fees:
Vehicle Type | Foreign Non-Residents (USD) | Foreign Residents (USD) | East African Citizens (UGX) |
---|---|---|---|
Saloon Cars | $40 | $5 | UGX 20,000 |
Minibuses/Omni-buses | $50 | $10 | UGX 30,000 |
Pick-Ups | $50 | $15 | UGX 30,000 |
Tour Company Vehicles | $150 | $30 | UGX 30,000 |
Overlanders | $150 | $30 | UGX 100,000 |
Buses and Lorries | $200 | $30 | UGX 200,000 |
Construction Equipment | $350 | $30 | UGX 500,000 |
School Buses | $200 | $30 | UGX 50,000 |
Delivery Vehicles | $20 | $5 | UGX 20,000 |
*Note: Vehicle entrance fees are valid for 24 hours.
Ferry Crossing Fees:
Vehicle Weight | Fee (UGX) |
---|---|
Small Vehicles (≤2 tons) | UGX 20,000 |
Medium Vehicles (2-5 tons) | UGX 40,000 |
Heavy Vehicles (5-10 tons) | UGX 80,000 |
Very Heavy Vehicles (10-20 tons) | UGX 150,000 |
*Note: Ferry crossing fees are valid for one day for visitors staying at the park and one way for cars in transit.
Activity Fees:
Activity | Fee (USD) |
---|---|
Game Drive | $40 |
Boat Cruise | $30 |
Chimpanzee Tracking | $50 |
Birding | $30 |
*Note: Activity fees are in addition to park entrance fees.
Please note that fees are subject to change. It’s advisable to check the latest rates with the Uganda Wildlife Authority or your tour operator before planning your visit.
Murchison Falls National Park Lodges
Murchison Falls National Park offers a range of accommodations suiting different budgets ranging from standard to luxurious lodges.
Luxury Lodges at the park include Paraa Safari Lodge and Chobe Safari Lodge
Mid-range Lodges include Murchison River Lodge and Pakuba Safari Lodge
Budget Lodges and Campsites include Red Chilli Rest Camp and UWA Campsites
Frequently asked questions about Murchison Falls National Park:
1. Where is Murchison Falls National Park located?
Murchison Falls National Park is located in the northwest of Uganda, along the shores of Lake Albert. It is about a 5-6 hour drive from Kampala, Uganda’s capital.
2. What are the park entrance fees?
The entrance fees vary depending on nationality and the type of visitor:
Foreign Non-Residents: $45 for adults, $20 for children
Foreign Residents: $35 for adults, $10 for children
East African Citizens: UGX 25,000 for adults, UGX 10,000 for children
(Note: Fees are subject to change, so it’s best to check with the Uganda Wildlife Authority for current rates.)
3. What activities can I do in Murchison Falls National Park?
Murchison Falls National Park offers a variety of activities, including:
Game drives to spot wildlife such as elephants, lions, giraffes, and buffaloes.
Boat cruises on the Nile to see hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species.
Chimpanzee tracking in the Budongo Forest.
Birding to observe diverse bird species, including the shoebill stork.
Hiking to the top of the falls to view the powerful Murchison Falls.
4. How do I get to Murchison Falls National Park?
Murchison Falls can be reached by road or air. By road, it’s about a 5-6 hour drive from Kampala. There are also chartered flights available from Entebbe to nearby airstrips, such as Pakuba or Chobe.
5. What is the best time to visit Murchison Falls?
The best time to visit Murchison Falls National Park is during the dry seasons, from December to February and June to September. During these times, wildlife is easier to spot, and roads are more accessible.
6. Can I visit Murchison Falls with children?
Yes, Murchison Falls is a family-friendly destination. Children can enjoy game drives, boat cruises, and other activities. However, it’s always recommended to check with the park authorities for age restrictions, particularly for chimpanzee tracking and other activities.
7. What wildlife can I expect to see?
Murchison Falls is home to a variety of wildlife, including:
Big Cats: Lions, leopards
Elephants
Giraffes
Buffaloes
Ugandan Kobs
Crocodiles and Hippos along the Nile
Variety of Birds, including the rare Shoebill stork
8. Do I need a guide for the activities in the park?
Yes, it’s recommended to use a guide when doing activities such as game drives, boat cruises, and chimpanzee tracking. Licensed guides provide valuable knowledge and increase the chances of seeing more wildlife.
9. Where can I stay in Murchison Falls National Park?
There are various accommodation options within and around the park, ranging from budget to luxury:
Luxury: Chobe Safari Lodge, Paraa Safari Lodge
Mid-range: Murchison River Lodge, Red Chilli Rest Camp
Budget: Campsites or basic guesthouses
You can book accommodations in advance through Uganda Wildlife Authority or various tour operators.
10. Are there any restrictions in the park?
Yes, some activities in Murchison Falls, such as chimpanzee tracking, have age and health restrictions. Additionally, visitors are advised to stay on designated paths during hikes, game drives, and boat cruises for safety reasons. Always follow park rules and respect wildlife.
11. What is the significance of Murchison Falls?
Murchison Falls is a stunning natural feature where the Nile River forces its way through a narrow gorge and cascades down a 43-meter drop. It is one of the most powerful waterfalls in the world and is the park’s main attraction.
12. Can I do a boat cruise to the top of Murchison Falls?
No, boat cruises only go to the base of the falls. Visitors can enjoy a boat ride on the Nile to the base of the falls, then hike to the top for a spectacular view.
13. What is the best way to see wildlife in the park?
The best way to see wildlife is by doing game drives early in the morning or late in the afternoon when animals are most active. Boat cruises along the Nile also provide great opportunities to see animals like hippos and crocodiles.
14. How long should I spend in Murchison Falls National Park?
A typical visit to Murchison Falls National Park lasts between 2 to 4 days depending on the activities you want to do, such as game drives, boat cruises, and chimpanzee tracking.
These FAQs should help you plan your trip to Murchison Falls National Park. For up-to-date information, it’s always best to check with the Uganda Wildlife Authority or your tour operator.