Guide to Murchison Falls National Park : Murchison Falls National Park is one of Uganda’s most popular tourist destinations, known for its stunning natural beauty, incredible wildlife, and of course, the majestic Murchison Falls themselves. Located in the northern part of the country, the park covers an area of 3,840 square kilometers and is home to a wide range of animals, including lions, elephants, giraffes, hippos, and over 450 species of birds.
Getting to Murchison Falls National Park is relatively easy, with the park located just a few hours’ drive from the capital city of Kampala. Visitors can either hire a car and drive themselves, or book a guided tour with a local tour operator. The park is also easily accessible by air, with daily flights from Entebbe International Airport to the nearby Pakuba Airfield.
Once you arrive in the park, there are plenty of things to see and do. One of the most popular activities is a game drive, which allows visitors to explore the park’s diverse landscapes and spot a wide range of wildlife. The best times for game drives are early in the morning and late in the afternoon, when the animals are most active.
Another popular activity in Murchison Falls National Park is a boat cruise along the Nile River. This allows visitors to get up close to the park’s incredible wildlife, including hippos, crocodiles, and a wide range of birds. The highlight of the boat cruise is undoubtedly the Murchison Falls themselves, where the Nile River is forced through a narrow gorge and drops 43 meters into the river below.
For those looking for a more adventurous experience, there are also opportunities for hiking, chimpanzee tracking, and even hot air balloon rides over the park. And for those who want to learn more about the park’s history and culture, there are several local communities that offer cultural tours and experiences.
Accommodation options in Murchison Falls National Park
Murchison Falls National Park offers a variety of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. Whether you are looking for luxury lodges or budget-friendly campsites, there are options available to suit every traveler’s needs.
Here are some of the accommodation options available in Murchison Falls National Park:
- Paraa Safari Lodge: This is a luxury lodge located on the banks of the Nile River. The lodge offers stunning views of the river and the park, and amenities such as a swimming pool, restaurant, and bar. Rates start at around $400 USD per person per night.
- Nile Safari Lodge: This is another luxury lodge located on the banks of the Nile River. The lodge offers spacious rooms, a swimming pool, restaurant, and bar, as well as a range of activities such as game drives and boat cruises. Rates start at around $350 USD per person per night.
- Bakers Lodge: This is a mid-range lodge located on the south bank of the Nile River. The lodge offers comfortable rooms with en-suite bathrooms, as well as a swimming pool, restaurant, and bar. Rates start at around $200 USD per person per night.
- Red Chilli Rest Camp: This is a budget-friendly campsite located just outside the park. The campsite offers basic tents and rooms, as well as a restaurant and bar. Rates start at around $20 USD per person per night.
- Fort Murchison Lodge: This is a mid-range lodge located near the park’s northern entrance. The lodge offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and bar, as well as a swimming pool and a range of activities such as game drives and boat cruises. Rates start at around $100 USD per person per night.
- Shoebill Campsite: This is a budget-friendly campsite located within the park. The campsite offers basic tents and rooms, as well as a restaurant and bar. Rates start at around $30 USD per person per night.
Overall, Murchison Falls National Park is a must-visit destination for anyone Uganda Safaris. With its incredible wildlife, surreal accommodations, stunning scenery, and range of activities and experiences, it is sure to be a highlight of any trip to East Africa.
