Murchison Falls National Park is Uganda’s largest and oldest wildlife reserve. It offers wide open landscapes, rivers, forests, and plenty of wildlife. Located in northwestern Uganda, this park holds a strong place in the country’s tourism. The powerful Murchison Falls, where the Nile squeezes through a narrow gap, is the biggest highlight.
Many visitors come here to enjoy the beauty of the River Nile. It cuts through the park and adds a special touch to the area. Animals gather along the riverbanks, making wildlife viewing easier. The park also became famous after the classic movie African Queen was filmed here in the 1950s.
Murchison Falls National Park is home to four of the Big Five animals. These include lions, elephants, leopards, and buffalo. The only one missing is the rhino. However, rhinos can still be seen at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary along the way to the park.
Buffaloes and elephants are easy to spot. Lions are often seen hunting Uganda kob, which are found in large numbers. You might also see oribi, Defassa waterbuck, bushbuck, Jackson’s hartebeest, and grey duiker. These animals live across the grasslands and near the riverbanks.
The Best Time to Visit
Though the park stays open all year, the dry season is best for wildlife viewing. This period runs from December to February. During this time, animals move towards the River Nile and other water sources. You’ll find better chances of spotting lions and other animals here.
Murchison Falls: A Natural Wonder
The main attraction is the powerful Murchison Falls. Here, the River Nile crashes through a 7-meter gap in the rocks. The water drops around 43 meters into a calm pool below. The force and sound of the falls are amazing. It is one of Africa’s top natural wonders.
You will feel the spray on your skin and hear the roar of the water. The falls also offer great photo chances. You can hike to the top for closer views or take a boat to the base. This place leaves a strong memory for most visitors.
Birdwatching in Murchison Falls
Bird lovers will enjoy Murchison Falls National Park. The park has over 450 bird species. You’ll see water birds, forest birds, and savannah birds.
The shoebill stork is the top bird to spot here. This rare bird lives in the swampy areas along the Nile Delta. The dry season between January and March gives the best chance to see it. Game drives and boat rides also bring many birding moments.
Other birds include the grey-crowned crane, giant kingfisher, and saddle-billed stork. You might also see African fish eagles and colorful bee-eaters. Birding here suits both beginners and experts.
Game Drives in the Park
Game drives are a key activity in Murchison Falls. They take place in the northern part of the park. Guides help spot animals and share useful facts. Most drives happen in the morning or late afternoon.
You’ll ride through open savannahs, looking out for lions, giraffes, and herds of elephants. The drives follow dirt roads that lead near water bodies where animals drink. Bring a camera and binoculars for better views.
Boat Safaris on the Nile
A boat trip on the River Nile offers great wildlife scenes. You’ll ride slowly along the water, watching hippos and crocodiles. Elephants and buffalo often visit the riverbanks.
Birds fly overhead and sit along the shores. The boat ride usually lasts two to three hours. The top highlight is reaching the bottom of the falls. From here, you’ll see the water thunder down between the rocks.
This trip feels calm and gives new views of the park. It also brings you close to animals that stay near water.
Hiking and Nature Walks
Murchison Falls is a good place for short hikes and forest walks. Trails run through Kaniyo Pabidi and Rabongo Forest. These paths offer a chance to see chimpanzees and many birds.
You’ll walk under tall trees and listen to forest sounds. Some trails lead to waterfalls or open clearings. A guide usually leads the walk and helps spot animals or explain plant types.
Nature walks offer a quiet break from driving. You get a better feel of the forest and its creatures.
Chimpanzee Tracking
Chimp tracking takes place in the Budongo Forest section of the park. These apes live in groups and are fun to watch. They make loud calls, swing in trees, and care for their young.
Tracking starts in the morning. It takes one to three hours to find the chimps. Once found, you get one hour to watch them. Guides help find the group and keep you safe.
Sport Fishing at Murchison Falls
Fishing fans enjoy sport fishing on the Nile. The waters near the base of the falls are rich in fish. You may catch Nile perch, catfish, or tilapia.
Fishing happens by boat or from the riverbank. Most anglers use rods and bait. Big fish like Nile perch attract many visitors. Some weigh over 50 kilograms.
This activity needs a permit. Gear is available for hire at most lodges. Catch and release is the rule to protect the fish.