Western, Uganda

Murchison Falls National Park

Uganda’s largest national park, Murchison Falls offers powerful waterfalls, Big Five wildlife, Nile boat safaris, and exceptional game viewing across vast savannah landscapes.

Distance from Entebbe 304 km Approximate driving distance
Altitude 615 m Above sea level
About This Destination

Murchison Falls National Park is Uganda’s largest and oldest conservation area, stretching across vast savannah plains in northwestern Uganda. The park is bisected by the legendary River Nile, which dramatically forces its way through a narrow 7-meter gorge before plunging 43 meters to create the thunderous Murchison Falls—one of the most powerful waterfalls in the world.

The park offers some of the best wildlife viewing in East Africa, with large populations of elephants, buffaloes, lions, giraffes, and antelopes roaming the northern plains. The southern sector, including Budongo Forest, is famous for chimpanzee tracking and rich birdlife.

A highlight experience is the Nile boat safari to the base of the falls, where visitors encounter hippos, Nile crocodiles, and dense concentrations of waterbirds. For birders, the park boasts over 450 species, including the rare shoebill stork in the Nile delta area.

Its accessibility from Kampala and proximity to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary make it a key destination for completing the Big Five safari experience in Uganda.

 

Why You'll Love Murchison Falls National Park
The powerful Murchison Falls on the Nile River
Classic Big Five safari experience (with rhinos nearby)
Boat safari to the base of the falls
High concentration of elephants, giraffes, and buffaloes
Chimpanzee tracking in Budongo Forest
Shoebill sightings in the Nile delta
Expansive savannah game drives
Experiences & Activities
Game drives
Boat safaris on the Nile
Hiking to the top of Murchison Falls
Chimpanzee tracking (Budongo Forest)
Bird watching
Hot air balloon safaris
Sport fishing on the Nile
Nature walks
Wildlife & Species
African elephants Lions Leopards Buffaloes Rothschild’s giraffes Hippos Nile crocodiles Jackson’s hartebeest Uganda kobs Oribis Chimpanzees Shoebill stork Over 450 bird species
Transport Options
Road Air
Getting There

Murchison Falls National Park is approximately a 5–6 hour drive (about 305 km) from Entebbe or Kampala via Masindi. The route offers a scenic journey through rural Uganda and Budongo Forest. Many travelers include a stop at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary for rhino tracking.
Scheduled and charter flights are available from Entebbe International Airport to Pakuba, Bugungu, or Chobe airstrips within the park, significantly reducing travel time.

 

Where to Stay

Murchison Falls National Park offers a wide range of accommodation options. Luxury lodges such as Paraa Safari Lodge and Chobe Safari Lodge provide premium comfort with stunning Nile views. Mid-range options like Pakuba Safari Lodge offer excellent access to game drive areas, while budget travelers can choose from campsites and basic lodges near the park. Many accommodations include guided safaris, boat trips, and curated wildlife experiences.

 

Best Time to Visit
June – September

Peak travel season

June – September and December – February (dry seasons for best wildlife viewing); March – May and October – November (green seasons with fewer crowds and excellent birding)
Weather & Climate: Murchison Falls National Park experiences a tropical climate with temperatures ranging between 25°C and 32°C. The park is generally hot and dry, especially in the northern sector. Rainy seasons occur from March–May and October–November, while dry seasons provide optimal wildlife viewing conditions.
Entry Fees & Permits
Park entry fees (approximate):
Foreign Non-Residents: $45 per adult per day
Foreign Residents: $35 per adult per day
East African Citizens: UGX 25,000 per adult per day

Additional costs:
Boat safari fees
Chimpanzee tracking permits (Budongo Forest)
Game drive guide fees
Fishing permits
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