Murchison Falls Safari Tours & Holiday Adventures

Wild Game Drive

A Murchison Falls Game Drive is inarguably one of the best ways to track and see the wildlife diversity that strolls and occupies the vastness of the park. Murchison Falls National Park is home to over 76 different types of mammals and 451 bird species all of which are exciting to see. However, the wildlife is widely spread across the vast savannah grasslands making a game drive the most suitable means of reaching them.

The mammals include the Big 5: lion, elephant, buffalo, rhino and leopard. Other mammals like giraffes, hyenas, warthogs, Jackson hartebeests, antelopes, etc. can also be seen during drives. The game drives are best done along the Northern banks of the park where lies a larger concentration wildlife in the savannah grasslands. The southern bank has a smaller number of animals with antelope herds dominating.

The park has two main schedules for game drives, these being: morning and evening. Each game drive takes between 2 to 4 hours but can stretch to 5 hours utmost for a thorough experience. Game viewing is best done in the morning at 6:30 AM, and at 4:00 PM for the evening experience. Travelmonke will see to it that you receive the ultimate Murchison Falls experience of your life.

The Victoria Nile Boat Cruise

A Murchison Falls safari in Uganda brings with it an opportunity to explore World’s longest river: River Nile. On its way to Lake Albert, river Nile flows from Lake Kyoga to Murchison Falls National Park Uganda as Victoria Nile where it falls off a 43-meter-high cliff, forming the thunderous Murchison falls. The boat cruises are divided into two schedules: the afternoon and late evening.

The Victoria Nile Boat Cruise offers a relaxing two-hour boat cruise on the Nile starting from the river’s banks to the base of Murchison Falls. Those that have been on this cruise attest to therapeutic caress of the breeze, the exciting sights of hippos, crocodiles, birds, buffalos, and the bewitching allure of the scenery from the breathtaking falls to the enthralling terrain.

Chimpanzee Trekking in Budongo Forest

Budongo Forest is not only the largest habitat for Chimpanzees in Uganda but it is also the largest Mahogany Forest throughout East Africa. This makes chimpanzee trekking in Budongo forest an ideal activity for any tourist going on a tour and safari in Uganda Murchison Falls. The 115 kilometer stretch of Mahogany and ironwood trees is situated along the serene road drive to Murchison Falls National Park Uganda about 3 hours from the capital, Kampala.

Budongo forest is a hiding place for various wildlife including Lions, Leopards, Buffaloes and about 9 primate species, Chimpanzees being the most popular. The impressive wildlife biodiversity of the forest is fed by a network of streams, the main one being River Waiga.

Budongo forest is a gem worthy of a visit on your Murchison Falls Safari tours in Uganda. It is home to over 24 mammal species, 360 bird species and 465 tree species, with unique observing points including Kaniyo Pabidi and Busingiro ecotourism sites. It is still in this forest that you can find rare birds like the Yellow-footed Flycatcher and Illadopsis puveli that cannot be seen anywhere else in East Africa.

Chimpanzee trekking happens to be one of the most sought-after activities in Budongo forest. This is because the forest is home to the largest population of Chimpanzees in Uganda. Travelmonke will help you in planning your Murchison Falls National Park safari trip to ensure that trekking chimpanzees makes the itinerary of the many fun activities to do.

Sport Fishing

Off the southeastern shores of Lake Albert in western Uganda at the base of the rift valley, lies a small village, Kibiro, famous for sport fishing. Kibiro is strategically located within the Albert basin thus enjoying a fresh supply of a variety of fish like the Nile perch, catfish and tiger fish spinning off Lake Victoria through River Nile.

To fully enjoy your Uganda Murchison Falls safari fishing adventure, tourists are encouraged to carry their fishing equipment and also wear the appropriate fishing attire. The fishing spots can easily be accessed by boat on Lake Albert, and by foot after some light hiking or using a 4×4-wheel vehicle.

Apart from fishing, Kibiro is famous for its rich salt deposits as a result of its location at the base of the rift valley. When visiting Murchison Falls National Park, tourists come here to watch women gather, process and sell salt. The salt production process is mainly carried out by the Banyoro women to earn a living.

Salt in Kibiro village in Murchison Falls National Park Uganda is produced locally without major production equipment. The water in the area is mainly salty so what the women need to do is only pour dry soil over the moist soil in the water channel and the result will be lumps of salt that are filtered and heated to form salt crystals.

Additionally, while at Kibiro, you will realize that Murchison falls isn’t the only breathtaking water wonder in Uganda’s Murchison Falls National Park. In Kigorobyo Sub County, on the outskirts of Lake Albert, you will find an intriguing hot spring that shoots up extremely hot water of about 100 degrees Centigrade before creating a stream that flows into Lake Albert.

Birding in Murchison Falls

Murchison Falls National Park Uganda is one of the country’s top birding destinations mostly because it is home to over 451 bird species. The bird diversity in the park is comprises endemic, rare, occasional and common bird species making it a definite “go-to” for a birder’s safari Uganda Murchison Falls birding adventure.

There are several birding sites within Murchison Falls National Park and each provides for a unique and fun experience of its own. For example; along the river’s banks and the swampy areas expect to see colorful birds while you cruise, like the Shoebill stork, Grey-crowned crane, swamp flycatcher, Goliath Herons and Black-headed lapwings among others.

The pristine forests of Kaniyo Pabidi, Rabongo and Budongo in Murchison Falls National Park provide unique vistas of rare, endemic and eccentric birds like the yellow-footed flycatcher, Ituri batis, white-thighed hornbill, Puvel’s Illaposis and Chocolate backed Kingfisher among others. Weavers, mousebirds, and silver birds are more common in the Paraa region.

Other birds you are likely to come across within Murchison Falls National Park Uganda include; blue Turaco, Black-billed Barbet, Malachite Kingfishers, Abyssinian Ground Hornbill, Denham’s Bustard, Dwarf Kingfisher, African Quail Finch, Black-bellied bustard, Marabou stork, Osprey, Veracious Dove, Rock Pratincole and long-tailed Nightjar, etc.

1. What to know when undertaking a safari to Murchison Falls National Park?

What to See

a) The Murchison Falls

The highlight of any itinerary in Murchison Falls National Park is visiting the Murhison falls to see how large volumes of water from the Victoria Nile forces its way through an approximately 7-meter-wide gorge to plunge 43 meters below into a pool. This powerful water fall creates a thunderous noise with a splashing cloud of fog offering a breathtaking view.

b) The Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

This private non-profit project was established in 2005 to revive the population of the white rhino in Uganda following the intense poaching that happened during the 1990s that totally depleted this species from the Murchison Falls and Kidepo National parks where these animals previously lived. Today there are 22 southern white rhinos found in this sanctuary.

c) The Rich Wildlife

The diverse vegetation cover of the park which includes woodlands, savannah and riverine forests supports a great diversity of animals which can easily be seen in different safari itineraries like the 3 Days Murchison Falls Safari. These include the Uganda Kobs, Hartebeests, lions, elephants, leopards, Rothschild giraffes, buffaloes, cheetahs, and hyenas among many others. Birders as well the park has a diversity of species to see like the rare shoebill stork, the Goliath heron, the yellow footed fly catcher, African jacana, Abyssinian ground hornbill, pitta as well as the pied giant and malachite kingfisher among the over 451 species.

What Not to Do While in Murchison Falls National Park

1. Do not go off the game drive track

This is perhaps one of the biggest causes of animal accidents in the park. Tourists are tempted to get off the drive track to get closer and get clear views of a prized animal (such as lion) that is far away from the track or is hidden behind a bush. However, you may be ambushed and cornered by another aggressive animal (such as elephant or buffalo) and it would be difficult for you to escape because of bushes in the way. The car may also get stuck in the bush tempting you to get out of the car and putting your life in danger.

2. Do not drive beyond 40km/hr.

The legal speed limit anywhere in the park is 40km/hr. and driving beyond that is over speeding that will put you at a risk of colliding with a large animal such as an elephant, giraffe, hippo and buffalo, the result of which is fatal. Driving beyond the speed limit also puts other smaller animals at risk and killing an animal attracts a heavy penalty.

3. Do not hoot in the park

Hooting in the park is illegal and can be risky for you as some animals are put off by noise. An agitated elephant can charge at you if it relates the sound of the hooting with a threat. Hooting will also scare other wildlife spoiling the safari experience for you and other visitors in the park.

4. Respect the 10-meter rule

It is advised the closest you should get to an animal should be not less than 10 meters. But this also depends on the behavior of the animal at that particular time. If you notice a large animal such as an elephant or buffalo is agitated, please keep far away from it. You should also not attempt to get closer to animals with babies.

5. Do not feed the animals or eat near animals

Tourists are tempted to throw a banana or biscuit to a monkey, baboon or even elephant, but this is not advised because this causes the animals to lose their natural instinct of looking for food in the bush and in the end, they start invading people and grabbing food causing injury in the process. There are incidents when baboons have ripped faces of tourists in an attempt to grab food.

6. Do not leave the car door or hotel room open

Scavenging animals like monkeys, baboons, warthogs are always in the vicinity looking for an opening for some free goodies. Elephants also sniff around for bananas and fruits. The most dangerous perhaps are the snakes that can easily crawl into the room without being noticed.

7. Put on a life jacket during the boat safari on the Nile

However good a swimmer you may be, the fast-flowing waters of the Nile may be too much for you in case of a boat accident. In the last decade only one tragic incident of a boat accident has been recorded in Murchison Falls National Park, and it is remembered that only those who had life jackets on survived.

8. Wear nature blending colors such as greens and browns

Avoid bright colors. For instance, color red is seen as blood by predators and can attract an attack, while for some other animals and wildlife such as birds it signifies danger and will scare them away.

9. Do not get out of the car during safari drive in the park

Do not get out of the car except in designated places but still be on the lookout for which animals are nearby, and look where you step. Also do not wonder too far from the car.

10. Do not smoke in the park, you can easily start a fire

Smoking near the dry savanna grasslands poses a great risk to the animals since a fire is likely to start in case the burnt cigar or cigarette residue makes contact with the dry grass, causing the animals to flee their habitat.

11. Take a professional tour guide/driver

If you can, hire a professional tour guide/driver. A professional tour guide/driver has undergone intense training about animal behavior and will know what to do in case faced with a difficult situation from an aggressive animal.

12. Take an armed park ranger/guide for the safari drive

Park rangers/guides are available in the park for hire. The park guide knows well about animal behavior and will guide on how to approach particular animals. The ranger guide also knows the best places to find certain animals of interest that will help you avoid unnecessary drive in the park that can lead you into dangerous situations.

13. Be care while at the Top of the Murchison falls

Avoid getting closer to the wet rocks and the raging water. The temptation to get a perfect selfie or video has led travelers slipping into the falls or being swept away by a gush of water.

Where is Murchison Falls National Park Found?

Home to Murchison Falls, the most powerful waterfall in the world, Murchison Falls National Park is found in Northwestern Uganda in East Africa, along the shores of Lake Albert. It spans over 3,893 square kilometers, encompassing Victoria Nile River in its fold, with Karuma Falls to the North.

Murchison Falls National Park straddles the Ugandan districts of Buliisa, Nwoya, Kiryandongo, and Masindi. The driving distance from Masindi, the nearest large town, to the Kibanda area of the national park is about 72 kilometers (45 mi).

How big is Murchison Falls National Park?

Murchison Falls National Park is the largest national park in Uganda and spans over 3,893 km², encompassing Victoria Nile River in its fold, with Karuma Falls to the North. It is also called Kabalega Falls National Park or Kabarega National Park, located in northwestern Uganda, and established in 1952.

It occupies an area of 1,483 square miles (3,840 square km) of rolling grassland east of Lake Albert. Murchison Falls National Park sits on the shores of Lake Albert, in northwest Uganda. It’s known for Murchison Falls, the world’s most powerful waterfall where the Victoria Nile River surges through a narrow gap over a massive drop.

Park wildlife includes elephants and hippos, and there are chimpanzees in the Kaniyo Pabidi mahogany forest. The Lake Albert Delta is home to rare shoebill storks. There are game fish in the cascades of Karuma Falls.

How to get to Murchison Falls National Park?

Murchison Falls National Park is located in Northwestern Uganda, East Africa. The park can be easily accessed by air and road. From Kampala to Murchison Falls, it is about 4h and 30min via Kampala–Masindi route (282 km) or 5h 30min via Kampala–Hoima. There are also charter flights from Kajjansi Entebbe to Chobe Airstrip.

Getting to Murchison Falls from Kampala

By Road

From Kampala, it takes approximately 4-6 hours (305 km) to drive to Murchison Falls National Park headquarters at Paraa (85km from Masindi).

The direct route to Murchison National Park from Kampala is through the southern gates (Kichumbanyobo and Masindi South Gate).

Alternatively, the northern gates (Purongo or Takigate-Packwach) are also a suitable option, although longer in distance, they take you straight to the most interesting sections of the park.

By Air
It is possible to fly to the park by chartered aircraft or the daily scheduled flight from Kajjansi Airfield near Kampala.

The flight is just under one hour.

The most convenient airfield to arrive at is Pakuba because of its proximity to the park headquarters and the main accommodations.

Alternatively, you can fly to Chobe or Bugundu.

Getting to Murchison Falls from Entebbe

By Air

The most direct way to travel is by scheduled flight from Entebbe International Airport.

There are daily flights to and from Murchison Falls, and the aircraft will stop at Pakuba, Chobe or Bugundu. The flight is one hour.

If your next port of call is the Kidepo Valley, Queen Elizabeth National Park or Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, a direct flight from Pakuba Airfield can be arranged by Travelmonke Tours.

What wildlife to expect on my Murchison Falls Safari?

Animals in Murchison Falls National Park

Murchison Falls National Park has 76 species of mammals that call this vast park their home, including four of the big five. To have a complete big 5 list, you would need to pass by the Rhino Sanctuary on the way to the park.

Animals are often seen while on a boat safari and during game drives in the park. The more common animals often seen are; Elephants, Giraffes, Buffaloes, Uganda Kobs, Bushbucks, Jacksons Hartebeests, Oribi, waterbucks and warthogs to mentions but a few.

The big cats of Leopards and Lions have higher chances of being seen on your early morning game drive before it gets too hot, forcing them into hiding. It is also home to several primates including Baboons, Patas monkeys, blue monkeys, Red-tailed monkeys and Black-and-white Colobus monkeys and Chimpanzees are found in the forested area of Kaniyo Pabidi which is part of Budongo forest.

Birds in Murchison Falls National Park

Murchison falls national park has varied habitats for birds making bird watching a famous activity in this park which has over 450 species of birds. The park is home to many migrant birds and those that are there all year round. The park has forested, swampy areas, riverine woodland, Savannah and acacia trees which all provide habitats for the birds.

You will enjoy watching the waterbirds when you take a boat safari towards the delta or towards the Murchison falls. Some bird species found here include; the elusive Shoebill, Swamp flycatcher, papyrus Gonolek, Goliath Heron, Abyssinian Ground Hornbill, Northern red bishop, Squacco heron, Red-throated Bee-eater and African-Quail Finch etc.

What is accommodation like in Murchison Falls National Park?

In Murchison Falls National Park, accommodation ranges from budget lodges, mid-range lodges and luxury lodges like the Chobe Safari lodge. This great diversity offers accommodation options for all travelers irrespective of your safari budget.

The Paraa Safari Lodge and Nile Safari Lodge are among the other luxury facilities, Pakuba Safari Lodge, Murchison River Lodge and Fort Muchison Safari Lodge are mid-range facilities while the Boomu Women’s Group Bandaas, Red Chilli Rest Camp, Yebo Safari Camp and Parkside Safari Lodge are the budget facilities.

Travelers are drawn to Murchison Falls National Park for the scenery, so invest in the view from your window. You can enjoy priceless views of the Nile with any budget, but luxury lodges really make you feel like you are staring at a painting.

Accommodation in Murchison Falls National Park

1. Pakuba Safari Lodge

is the best mid-range option in Murchison Falls. The lodges near to the Albert Nile in the northwest provide the greatest choice of budget options. Of these, Pakuba has the best location.

The three-star suburban lodge is situated on the east bank of the Albert Nile. The lodge is a modern incarnation of the former state lodge that was previously visited by Idi Amin, and its ruins can still be seen. Pakuba is a short distance from the Tangi Gate of Murchison Falls National Park.

After a fast-paced day at the park, you can cool off in its outdoor pool or sip your favourite tipple at the lodge’s fully stocked bar. You may prefer to sit at your window and take in the scenic wilderness views. Fortunate guests may see animals such as a warthog, or even a giraffe from the lodge.

1. Paraa Safari Lodge

The most popular lodges are found in the central Paraa area of the park where the Victoria Nile joins Lake Albert. Paraa Safari Lodge is a large hotel of 54 rooms, and it occupies a prime site on the north bank of the Nile.

Each room has an en suite bathroom, a large window, and a private balcony with captivating views of the winding Nile. Guests can enjoy complimentary parking, Wi-Fi, and a free breakfast at its restaurant.

Reconstructed in 1997 out of the shell of the original 1959 lodge, the decor of the lodge is inspired by a former era of exploration of the Nile. Its tranquil outdoor pool appeared in the Hollywood classic, ‘The African Queen’. The lodge is a great option for families or first-time visitors to Africa who want to experience a safari in comfort and style.

1. Budongo Ecolodge

Venturing further south, accommodation is available alongside the main road that runs between Masindi and Paraa. While these lodges do not have Nile frontage, they provide great access to the forests of Budongo, home to a myriad of birdlife and over 600 chimpanzees.

The Budongo Ecolodge, located 8km north of the Kichambanyobo Gate, is the most popular place to stay. Originally the research station for the Jane Goodall Institute, it has been renovated to provide a pleasant and comfortable base for forest exploration.

The lodge is intimate, offering five comfortable cabins and four large dormitory rooms for larger groups. Its on-site visitor center is very informative about the local area, and it showcases ancient fossils. The lodge’s craft shop sells handmade gifts to commemorate your stay.

Is it possible to do a Murchison Falls safari with other destinations in Uganda?

Owing to its ideal location, most of the visitors to Murchison Falls National Park often come from other tourism destinations like Bwindi, after a Gorilla Trekking Tour, or on their way to the beautiful islands on Ssese Island Beach for a holiday, or after visiting the capital of primates on a 3 Days Kibale Chimpanzee Safari. This can also be combined with safari to other neighboring safari options like Rwanda gorilla tours, or Kenya and Tanzania safari.

If you are looking to spice up your Murchison Falls safari tour, here are some epic destinations to consider.

National Parks in Uganda

Besides Murchison, we take you to other notable parks like Bwindi, Kibale, Queen Elizabeth, Kidepo and more.

1. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Located on the western arm of the East African Rift Valley in the southwest of Uganda, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is one of the best places to be in Uganda. Walk the fresh 321 square kilometer spread of botanical diversity set against a misty background of rolling hills and endless streams that flow into Lake Edward.

When it comes to supplementing a Murchison Falls safari in Uganda, gorilla trekking is the perfect activity to try in this park. These apes are extremely rare for they exist in only 3 countries in the world; Uganda being one of them. It thus goes without saying that Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is a must visit while you are still in Uganda.

2. Queen Elizabeth National Park

You’ve probably heard of the tree-climbing lions and wondered what they look like, or how differently they might be built from the common lion. Well, for all these questions you might have, Queen Elizabeth National Park as all the answers to quench your curiosity.

Queen Elizabeth National Park is one of Uganda’s most visited national parks and this is partly due to the unusual behavior of the Lion residents who have taken to climbing trees to escape the ground heat and ants.

This 1,978 square kilometer safari stretch of land is equally popular for offering an endless repertoire of safari adventures other than the tree-climbing lions. For instance; you could opt to enjoy an afternoon voyage upon the Kazinga Channel; a fresh water canal joining Lakes Edward and George. Other prominent activities include; game drives, birding and Hot Air Balloon Ventures.

3. Kibale National Park

For any nature-loving visitor with an inclination to primates hiking, Kibale National Park is the perfect place to be. If you loved the Chimps in Budongo Forest after your safari in Uganda’s Murchison Falls National Park, then you will definitely love this 795 square kilometer game reserve that harbors approximately 80% of the country’s Chimpanzee population.

Coincidentally, Kibale National Park is located on the floor of the rift valley, sprouting some of the most exotic plant species that are believed to be about two centuries (200 years) old. Here, you have the opportunity to appreciate the primate life with 12 primate species apart from Chimpanzees.

4. Kidepo Valley National Park

Comfortably poised in the northeastern region of Uganda, Kidepo Valley National Park boasts a diversity of wildlife and nomadic preservation of culture, among a famous tribe called the Karimojong.

Found within the outskirts of the Karimojong region, this safari gem sits in isolation from the bustle of the city and national parks of its kind, which makes safaris here even the more intimate. With 76 different mammals strolling the grasslands, including some rare wildlife species hardly found elsewhere, game drives here are sure to leave you awe-struck.

As temperatures rage on and the dry earth spreads beneath your feet, head down into the Kidepo Valley lined with borassus palms and a seasonal river that transforms into a dry bed of white sand under extreme weather. The park gives off a relaxing and adventurous invitation into the wildlife, nature and a people intertwined with such rich a culture.

5. Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Although one of the smallest national parks in Uganda, Mgahinga Gorilla National Park is a perfect spin off from a Murchison Falls National Park safari holiday. It covers an area of 33.9 square kilometers in southwestern Uganda and is the only other place to see mountain gorillas in Uganda besides Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

As you plan for a gorilla trek in this park, save some energy to track golden monkeys as well. These elusive primates are extremely rare and cannot be found just anywhere other than in Uganda and Rwanda. In addition, it is the perfect destination for birding, a cultural encounter with the ancient Batwa and a volcano hike upon the Virunga Mountain range.

6. Lake Mburo National Park

Lake Mburo National Park is conveniently located along the wildlife corridor that connects Kampala to the national parks of southwestern Uganda. It is a relatively small game land that was once covered in open savannah but is currently covered in woodland vegetation since there aren’t any Elephants to tame the vegetation.

Aside from the beautiful woodland, Lake Mburo forms a 50km stretch of a wetland system along with other 13 lakes. As you journey to this park while on your Uganda safari tour, prepare to be mind-blown by a boat cruise along the lake, some beautiful birding opportunities of pink flamingoes and breathtaking scenery over the horizon.

7. Sipi Falls

Off the western flank of Mount Elgon is Sipi waterfall, the longest and one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Africa. Sipi falls follows a trail over rocky landscape before cascading down the mountain in a series of drops; the longest being 100 meters. Each of the three divisions of the waterfall are nothing short of fascinating.

The Sipi Falls hike is a bit heavy and requires hikers to be in great physical shape but the experience is definitely worth it. Carry your camera for this trip because you are definitely going to need to capture these exhilarating moments.

8. Lake Bunyonyi

Lake Bunyonyi is a fresh water lake nestled between Kisoro and Kabale. It lies within a depression covered by free falling hills crowned with green tea plantations and riparian forest. It is officially 40 meters deep although some claims have been made that it is about 200m deep; which would automatically make it Africa’s second deepest lake.

After a joyous Murchison Falls safari trip, explore the 20 islands of this lake inside a dugout canoe as you take in the magnificent scenery surrounding the lake. The swampy outcrops along the water’s edge are often a hideout place for the Shoe billed stork. Other activities to try include; Swimming, Quad biking and cultural encounters.

9. Lake Mutanda

Within the cozy depression at the base of the Virunga Mountain range, Lake Mutanda continues to capture many hearts. It is an isolated fresh water lake near Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park in the extreme most southwestern region of Uganda in Kisoro district.

After your Murchison Falls safari, you will need a quiet, laidback and intimate destination like Lake Mutanda. The scenery surrounding the lake is absolutely fabulous for you can see the three Virunga volcanoes; Sabinyo, Gahinga and Muhavura from the lake shore. This rare contrast of still blue waters against a blue sky and green vegetation is a must see.

10. Rwenzori Mountain Range

The Rwenzori Mountain range was named “Mountains of the Moon” for one specific reason; snow. If you are looking to find some snow while on your Murchison Falls National Park Uganda safari, then the Rwenzori Mountains are the perfect destination for you. Spend a number of days hiking to its summit for a memorable safari experience.

The higher you climb, the more beautiful vegetation you encounter, such as giant lobelia, heathers and groundsel.  The mountain also makes for some light game viewing of animals such as red duikers, bush pigs and some primates. There is no greater adventure in Uganda than standing at the highest point in the country.

11. Mt Elgon National Park

Mount Elgon National Park is located along the border of Uganda and Kenya with the national boarder dissecting the park into two parts; a 1,110 square kilometer stretch in Uganda and a 169 square kilometer area in Kenya. The park is without a doubt one of the most beautiful and cool places you will ever be.

Feel the cold breeze of the moist evergreen forest on your face as you make your way to the summit of the world’s largest volcano base. We recommend a good camera and comfortable hiking boots.

12. Ssese Islands

Set on the northwestern shores of Lake Victoria, the Ssese Islands are a string of rather splendid islands. Not only do they offer mind-blowing scenery but are perfect for a relaxation day after a safari Uganda Murchison Falls National Park. Picture yourself having a drink besides the water’s edge as you commune with your amiable company.

13. Lake Victoria

Lake Victoria is the largest tropical fresh water lake in the world and Africa’s most prized possession owing to its being the Source of River Nile. Make a trip to Lake Victoria part of your Murchison Falls safari tour because you will carry these memories with you for life; and what better way to explore the lake than with a boat cruise?

14. Semliki National Park

For any bird lover visiting Uganda, Semliki National Park is a must add to your Murchison Falls safaris to Uganda. Although relatively small, the park is home to about 40% of Uganda’s endemic species. It derives its diversity from East African and Congo biome species and all these are at your disposal upon arrival at the park.

15. Kampala City

Welcome to Uganda’s Capital where everything is set to take off. Amidst the busy hustle of daily life, get ready to mingle with some locals and visit interesting sites around the city such as Kasubi tombs, the Uganda museum and many more. It is also the perfect plan to taste some iconic meals such as the “Rolex” after a few days on a trip to Murchison Falls National Park.

16. Jinja

Jinja is the tourism capital of Eastern Uganda.  Believe that you do not want to leave Uganda without visiting Jinja. With the Source of the Nile located here, only expect the best of adventures. Here, you take off your shoes and step into an unblemished Eden.

Gather a bunch of your friends to try out exhilarating water sports such as white-water rafting, bungee jumping, Kayaking and jet boating. Other adventures to try out include; Quad biking, Swimming and even fishing. So, while you plan to close off your safari in Uganda, make it a point to visit Jinja first.

Aside from the exotic wonders of the thunderous Murchison Falls, there are a number of destinations that you can take up to spice your safari in Uganda such as: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Jinja, Kampala, Sipi falls, Lake Bunyonyi and Ssese Islands among other destinations.

Contact us at Travelmonke Tours for a tailor-made itinerary.

What is the best time to visit Murchison Falls National Park?

Murchison Falls National Park is enjoyable all year round, but December through to February is considered the best time to visit the park. June to September is another great window to visit.

Throughout these months, there’s little rainfall, which means the tracks leading you to wildlife during your game drives remain dry and accessible. The dry season attracts animals to water sources, so it’s easier to spot them while out on game drives.

When is the dry season?

The dry season falls between December to February, and then again from June to September. During this time, there’s plenty of sunshine and rarely any rain.

The park is equatorial, so it’s hot all year round. The temperature ranges between 25-32°C during the day and drops down to 18°C at night.

The temperature in January and February is sweltering, so be sure to wear light clothing and bring plenty of water and sun cream.

What to park for a Murchison Falls National Safari?

All holidaymakers visiting the Murchison Falls National Park are advised to pack a number of things. However, a valid passport with visa and a yellow fever vaccination certificate, camera, comfortable safari clothing that are not brightly colored, long-sleeved shirts, scarfs, trousers, sunscreen, sunglasses, caps, a hat, evening wear, durable waterproof shoes with ankle support especially when going on nature walks or chimpanzee trekking.

What is the likely cost of a Murchison Falls Safari?

There are a number of factors that affect the overall cost of a safari in this park, these include the park entrance to Murchison Falls National Park which is $40 and $20 for foreign non-residents, the cost of accommodation, transport and additional activities you will be engaging in.

3 Days Murchison Falls & Ziwa Rhino Safari

Day 1: Arrival

Day 2: Explore Murchison Falls National Park

Day 3: Departure

Cost: $620 for budget Accommodation

3 Days Murchison Falls & Ziwa Rhino Safari

Day 1: Ziwa Rhino

Day 2: Explore Murchison Falls NP

Day 3: Departure

Cost: $790 pp for Mid-range Accommodation

Cost: $1000 pp for Luxury Accommodation

5 Days Murchison Falls & Jinja Rafting

Day 1: Arrival

Day 2-3: Murchison Falls NP

Day 4: Rafting in Jinja
Day 5: Departure

Cost: $1,000 pp for budget accommodation.

Popular Safari Packages

2 Days Murchison Falls Wildlife Safari

3 Days Murchison Falls Safari

4 Days Murchison Falls Tours

Why Choose TravelMonke?

Travelmonke is a registered local operator in Uganda, the Pearl of Africa, with 10 years of excellence in operating safari in Murchison falls National Park Uganda.

At Travelmonke, we prioritize unique eco-friendly tours aimed at offering back to local communities in Murchison falls National Park and other destinations to include; Kenya safaris, Tanzania and Rwanda.

Our multiple tailored tours are designed to fit all travelers’ interests from single to big groups with major emphasis on the finest hotels, amazing guides and good safari vehicles. Our service has proven excellent over the years as indicated by our safari travel reviews. Don’t delay to reach our desk.

Booking a Murchison falls safari tour with us offers you an opportunity to travel in style enjoying the life-changing safari experiences on a fairly priced safari well designed and greatly fitted to your preference.

Our team includes professional tour guides, reservation agents and consultants. We exist to make your dreams of a Ugandan safari come true.