Murchison Falls National Park lies at the northern end of the Albertine Rift Valley, where the sweeping Bunyoro escarpment tumbles into vast, palm-dotted savanna. First gazetted as a game reserve in 1926, it is Uganda’s largest and oldest conservation area.
The park is bisected by the Victoria Nile, which plunges 45m over the remnant rift valley wall, creating the dramatic Murchison Falls, the centerpiece of the park and the final event in an 80km stretch of rapids. The mighty cascade drains the last of the river’s energy, transforming it into a broad, placid stream that flows quietly across the rift valley floor into Lake Albert.
Murchison Falls National Park is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Home to over 144 mammal species, 556 bird species, and a thriving river ecosystem, the park’s biodiversity is unmatched.
The boat journey from Paraa to Murchison Falls, where the Nile crashes through Fajao Gorge, is the park’s most popular and longest-running excursion.
This 3-hour trip provides stunning wildlife sightings, including hippos, crocodiles, elephants, and buffalo, and is offered by UWA and private operators.
Travelers are encouraged to experience the Top of the Falls viewpoint, where the Nile thunders through a narrow 6-meter gorge.
While the site is accessible by vehicle, the more rewarding option is to disembark from the boat and hike up through Fajao Gorge, accompanied by a ranger guide.
Game drives in Murchison Falls National Park offer an immersive wildlife experience, with opportunities to spot elephants, lions, buffalo, giraffes, and antelopes across the savannah.
Early morning and late afternoon drives are ideal for viewing a variety of species in their natural habitat, including predators like leopards. The park’s open landscapes and diverse ecosystems make it one of Uganda’s prime destinations for game viewing.
Travelers are encouraged to experience the Top of the Falls viewpoint, where the Nile thunders through a narrow 6-meter gorge.
While the site is accessible by vehicle, the more rewarding option is to disembark from the boat and hike up through Fajao Gorge, accompanied by a ranger guide.
Sports fishing in Murchison Falls is a popular activity, attracting anglers who target species like catfish and tigerfish. The scenic surroundings and abundant wildlife enhance the experience, making it a must-try adventure for fishing enthusiasts.
The stretch of river below Murchison Falls offers an exhilarating challenge for anglers, with the current record for a Nile perch caught by rod and line weighing in at an impressive 108kg.
Kaniyo Pabidi Forest, located in the southern part of Murchison Falls Conservation Area, offers thrilling forest walks and the chance to track a habituated chimpanzee group with expert guides. This forest is also a key birding destination, home to Albertine Rift endemics and restricted-range species like the chocolate-backed kingfisher and white-thighed hornbill.
Comfortable accommodation is available on-site, with additional options in nearby Masindi town, 30 km away.
Birding in Murchison Falls National Park offers diverse opportunities, from spotting waterbirds on the Nile cruise to viewing the rare shoebill in the Nile Delta. The Kaniyo Pabidi Forest provides a chance to seek out rare and restricted-range forest species, making the park a top destination for bird enthusiasts.
Murchison Falls National Park has a captivating history, drawing explorers, dignitaries, and filmmakers alike. Notable visitors include:
By Road: Located 305 km from Kampala, the drive to the southern entrance takes around 4 to 5 hours. The route from Fort Portal (280 km away) requires at least 6 hours.
By Air: Chartered and scheduled flights are available from Entebbe International Airport (EBB) or Kajjansi Airfield. The Pakuba Airfield is the most convenient arrival point, though Chobe and Bugungu airstrips also serve the park.
Most tour operators offer full safari packages that include airport pick-ups, transportation, and guided tours.
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