Combining Murchison Falls with Kidepo or Queen Elizabeth
Exploring Uganda’s wilderness becomes even more rewarding when you combine two of its most iconic national parks into a single safari adventure. Murchison Falls National Park, with its roaring waterfalls and wildlife-rich savannah, blends perfectly with the rugged remoteness of Kidepo Valley or the varied ecosystems of Queen Elizabeth National Park. Below, we explore what each combination offers and why it’s worth considering.
Murchison Falls & Kidepo Valley: A Journey Into the Wild North
Why Combine These Parks?
- Untamed Wilderness: Kidepo Valley is arguably Uganda’s most remote park, offering an authentic and less-crowded experience. Combining it with Murchison Falls gives you the best of both accessible and untouched wilderness.
- Unique Landscapes: Murchison Falls is known for its Nile-centered landscapes and dramatic waterfalls, while Kidepo boasts vast open plains, mountain views, and seasonal riverbeds.
- Rare Wildlife Encounters: Expect to see lions, elephants, giraffes, and buffalo in both parks—but Kidepo offers unique sightings such as cheetahs, ostriches, and large herds of eland.
Ideal Itinerary Length: 7–10 days
Best For: Adventurous travelers seeking solitude, wildlife photographers, and those who want to experience Uganda’s northern parks.
Murchison Falls & Queen Elizabeth: Iconic Wildlife & Diverse Habitats
Why Combine These Parks?
- Wildlife Diversity: Together, these parks offer opportunities to see the Big Five, plus chimpanzees in the Kyambura Gorge and tree-climbing lions in Ishasha.
- Scenic Contrasts: From the thunderous falls of the Nile to the crater lakes and volcanic foothills of Queen Elizabeth, the contrasting beauty is breathtaking.
- Water-Based Safaris: Both parks offer unique water experiences—boat safaris on the Nile in Murchison and along the Kazinga Channel in Queen Elizabeth.
Ideal Itinerary Length: 6–9 days
Best For: First-time visitors to Uganda, families, and travelers interested in varied safari activities like game drives, boat cruises, and primate tracking.
Things to Consider When Choosing
- Travel Time: Kidepo is more remote and requires longer travel times or a domestic flight. Queen Elizabeth is more accessible by road from Kampala or Murchison.
- Safari Style: Choose Kidepo for a raw, off-the-beaten-path experience. Choose Queen Elizabeth for a classic and more diverse safari.
- Budget: Travel to Kidepo can be more costly due to distance and limited infrastructure, while Queen Elizabeth offers a broader range of accommodation options.
Final Thoughts
Combining Murchison Falls with either Kidepo Valley or Queen Elizabeth National Park allows you to experience the incredible variety of Uganda’s landscapes and wildlife. Whether you’re drawn to the remote wilderness of Kidepo or the ecological richness of Queen Elizabeth, pairing it with the iconic Murchison Falls creates a safari experience that’s both dynamic and unforgettable.