Murchison Falls National Park: a complete travel guide

2 hours ago

1 min read

Murchison Falls is Uganda's oldest and largest national park, gazetted in 1952. At its heart, the entire Nile forces its way through a gap in the rock only about 7 metres wide and thunders down into the gorge below. It is one of the most powerful sights in Africa.

What to do in Murchison Falls

Boat trip to the falls. Cruise upstream from Paraa past hippos, crocodiles and elephants to the foot of the falls.
Game drives north of the Nile. The open savannah is home to giraffe, elephant, buffalo, antelope and lion.
Hike to the Top of the Falls. Stand right beside the roaring gorge, the best way to feel the river's power.
Delta boat trip. Head downstream to where the Nile meets Lake Albert for papyrus channels and a good chance of the shoebill.

How long should you stay?

Two to three days lets you do a game drive, a boat trip and the hike to the top without rushing.

When to go

The drier months, December to February and June to September, are best for game drives. The park is open all year.

Getting there

Murchison Falls is about 305 km from Kampala, around 5 to 6 hours by road. Break the drive at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary to track white rhinos on foot. Park entry is about US$45 per day for foreign visitors, with boat trips extra; your agency confirms current fees.