Discover Murchison Falls National Park
About Murchison Falls National Park: Murchison Falls National Park is one of the oldest and largest national parks located in the north-western region of Uganda. Formerly known as Kabalega National Park, it sits on the shores of Lake Albert, home to the rare shoebill stork, and stretches along the Victoria Nile up to the Karuma Falls. Covering a total area of 3,893 square kilometers (1,503 square miles), the park is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, boasting over 144 species of mammals, 51 species of amphibians and reptiles, and 556 species of birds, alongside diverse landscapes including savannah, forests, and swamps, as well as lodging options for visitors. Murchison Falls National Park, established in 1952, is located to the northwest of Kampala, the capital city of Uganda.
To reach your destination, you will cover about 305 kilometers, which typically takes around 5 to 6 hours by car. The journey leads you through Masindi town to the park headquarters at Paraa, located 85 kilometers from Masindi. The southern Kichumbanyobo gate is the most direct and primary entry point from Kampala or Entebbe International Airport. Alternatively, you can enjoy a one-hour flight to the nearby Pakuba airstrip. The park features 6 entrances: Kichumbanyobo gate, Chobe gate, Wankar gate, Tangi gate, Mubako gate, and Bugungu gate. Accessing Murchison Falls National Park can be done through a tour agent or by embarking on a self-drive journey.
Murchison Falls National Park requires an entrance fee.
The entrance fee is the amount collected by the Uganda Wildlife Authority, the governing body overseeing tourism, from visitors before they embark on their journey into the park’s wonders.
Foreign residents pay 35 USD each, while non-foreign residents are charged 45 USD per person. Ugandans have a fee of 25,000 UGX per adult. For children, non-foreign residents are charged 25 USD each, foreign residents 15 USD, and Ugandan children 10,000 UGX each. Permits for park entrance are available at all the gates.
Murchison Falls National Park offers a variety of exciting attractions and activities (Please note that each activity in the park requires payment) including;
Experience the thrill of Ziwa Rhino Tracking in the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, situated north of Kampala along the Kampala – Gulu highway, leading to the breathtaking Murchison Falls National Park. To embark on a journey to track rhinos, there is a fee of 50 USD per person. Non-residents, $25 per child and 30,000.- UGX Ugandans
Experience the thrill of observing a diverse array of over 144 mammal species, including the iconic big five: elephants, lions, giraffes, and the elusive leopard. You will also encounter Uganda kobs, antelopes, bushbucks, buffaloes, Jackson wildebeests, warthogs, hyenas, jackals, and many more fascinating creatures. The prime time for wildlife sightings in Murchison Falls National Park is from December to February, while October is ideal for chimpanzee trekking in Budongo Forest. In January, as the grasses remain low and the fruits begin to ripen, the landscape unfolds with possibilities.
Embark on a boat cruise to the base of the falls, where you will have the opportunity to encounter hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of birds. The journey lasts for about 2 to 3 hours. Boats are priced at 30,000 UGX per person for Ugandans and 30 USD per person for both foreigners and foreign residents.
Discover Murchison Falls National Park Embark on a thrilling boat cruise At Murchison Falls,
Birding and bird watching is an exhilarating activity, particularly for enthusiasts, as the park boasts an impressive 556 species of birds. Among them are the Black-headed lapwing, Black-billed Barbet, Senegal thick-knee, yellow-fronted tinkerbird, long-toed lapwing, long-tailed nightjar, and the majestic shoebill, all found along the Albertine Rift, among others.
Fishing in Murchison Falls National Park offers endless opportunities for excitement. you can opt to fish or take a boat ride along the banks of the Nile; The catch features an array of exciting species, including Nile perch, large catfish, tilapia, and tiger fish, among others. The fish that is often caught is Nile Perch.
Explore the local village, where visitors are captivated by traditional dances and can join in the exciting activities of fishing and crafting unique items for sale.
Murchison Falls National Park offers a variety of lodging options both inside and outside the park, catering to every guest’s preferences with choices ranging from budget-friendly to mid-range and luxury accommodations.
In Lake Murchison Falls National Park, you can find a variety of budget lodges that promise an exciting stay. Options include Hornbill Lodge, Parkside Safari Lodge, Red Chill Rest Camp, Barlyec Safari Lodge, Shoebill Campsite, Yebo Safari Camp, Ziwa Rhino Camp, and Uganda Wildlife Campsites, among others.
Mid-range lodges feature Pakuba Safari Lodge, Murchison River Lodge, Fort Murchison Lodges, Masindi Resort, Murchison Falls Bamboo Lodge, Twiga Safari Lodge, Sambiya River Lodge, Amuka Lodge, and more.
In Murchison Falls National Park, you can find an array of exquisite lodges such as Nile Safari Lodge, Paraa Safari Lodge, Chobe Safari Lodge (part of Marasa Africa), and Bakers’ Lodge, each offering unique experiences amidst breathtaking landscapes.