Murchison Falls National Park Uganda – Complete Travel Guide

Murchison Falls National Park is the largest and oldest national park in Uganda. Established in 1952, it spans over 3,893 square kilometers (1,503 square miles) across the districts of Kiryandongo, Masindi, Nwoya, and Buliisa in northwestern Uganda. The River Nile flows through the park, creating the iconic Murchison Falls, where the river squeezes through a 7-meter gorge and plunges 42 meters below with thunderous force.

The falls were named by British explorer Sir Samuel Baker after Roderick Murchison, a president of the Royal Geographical Society. During the 1970s, former Ugandan President Idi Amin attempted to rename the falls "Kabalega Falls" in honor of the Bunyoro King, but the name was never widely adopted.

Murchison Falls National Park features savannah grasslands, open woodlands, tropical forests, and wetlands. It is part of the Murchison Falls Conservation Area, which includes Bugungu and Karuma Wildlife Reserves. The park also houses lush forests like Budongo, Rabongo, and Kaniyo Pabidi, which are home to chimpanzees, colobus monkeys, olive baboons, and many bird species.

Wildlife and Conservation

Murchison Falls is home to

• Over 76 mammal species including lions, giraffes, elephants, and leopards
• Over 450 bird species including the rare shoebill stork
• Large populations of crocodiles and hippos along the Nile

Although poaching and civil conflict in the 1970s reduced wildlife numbers, conservation efforts by the Uganda Wildlife Authority have restored much of the park’s biodiversity. White rhinos, once extinct in the park, are now being reintroduced from the nearby Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary.

How to Get to Murchison Falls National Park

By Road

• Distance from Kampala: Approx. 305 km (4–5 hours)
• Best route: Kampala → Masindi → Kichumbanyobo Gate
• Transport options: Private vehicle or guided tour. Public transport is available up to Masindi, then you must arrange for a private vehicle to enter the park.

Tip: Using a tour operator is highly recommended for comfort and easy access

By Air

Chartered flights are available from Entebbe Airport or Kajjansi airstrip to Pakuba, Bugungu, or Chobe airstrips, located near the park.

Top Attractions and Activities in Murchison Falls National Park

1. Visit the Top of Murchison Falls

Hike or drive to the top of the falls for incredible views of the Nile as it crashes through the narrow gorge. Rainbows form in the mist, making it a great photography spot.

2. Boat Cruise on the Nile

Enjoy a scenic boat ride from Paraa to the bottom of the falls. Expect close-up views of:

• Hippos and crocodiles
• Elephants and buffaloes on the banks
• Bird species like kingfishers, fish eagles, and herons

3. Nile Delta Boat Ride

For bird lovers, take a boat to the Nile Delta, where the river enters Lake Albert. This area is rich in birdlife including the shoebill stork and papyrus specialists.

4. Karuma Falls

Located in the northeastern part of the park near Gulu, these falls offer breathtaking views and excellent birdwatching opportunities.

5. Game Drives

Explore the park in a 4x4 safari vehicle and spot:

• Lions, leopards, elephants, and giraffes
• Antelope species like Uganda kob, hartebeest, and oribi
• Night game drives offer a chance to see nocturnal predators

6. Chimpanzee Trekking

Track chimpanzees in Budongo and Rabongo Forests, guided by experienced rangers. These forests are also excellent for nature walks and birdwatching.

7. Rhino Tracking at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

On your way to or from the park, stop at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary to see rhinos in their natural habitat. Rhino tracking is done on foot and guided by rangers.

8. Sport Fishing

The Nile below the falls is perfect for catch-and-release fishing, with species like:

• Nile Perch (weighing over 200 lbs)
• Tilapia and Tiger Fish

A fishing permit is required, and equipment must be brought or arranged with your tour operator.

9. Forest and Nature Walks

Walk through Kaniyo Pabidi, Budongo, or Rabongo forests to learn about medicinal trees, bird species, and primates. These walks are guided by knowledgeable rangers.

10. Birdwatching

This park is a birding paradise, with hotspots around the Delta, forests, and savannah. Notable species include:

• Shoebill Stork
• Goliath Heron
• African Fish Eagle
• Abyssinian Ground Hornbill
• Secretary Bird
• Standard-winged Nightjar

Best Time to Visit

The best time for wildlife viewing and outdoor activities is during the dry season (December to February and June to September). The wet season (March to May and October to November) is great for birdwatching.

Tip: Bring cash, insect repellent, binoculars, sunscreen, and lightweight clothing.