Murchison Falls National Park, covering 3,840km², is one of Uganda’s oldest protected areas. Gazetted in 1926 as Bunyoro and Gulu Wildlife Reserve, it became a national park in 1952. This park, combined with Karuma and Bugungu Wildlife Reserves, forms the Murchison Falls Conservation Area, which spans 5,072km². Here, the Nile squeezes through a 6-meter-wide gorge, plunging 45 meters into the ‘Devil’s Cauldron,’ creating a stunning spectacle. Visitors often spot elephants, giraffes, and buffaloes along the riverbanks, while hippos, crocodiles, and aquatic birds thrive in the water. The park’s northern section features savanna and riverine woodland, while the southern part consists of bush and forest. The Victoria Nile bisects the park, flowing westward for 80 kilometers before its dramatic plunge. After this drop, the river calms as it heads toward Lake Albert. Notable visitors like Winston Churchill and Theodore Roosevelt have admired this park, which also hosted the filming of “The African Queen.”

Activities and Attractions

Boat Cruise

The most popular excursion in the park is the boat cruise from Paraa to the falls. This three-hour round trip offers spectacular views of the falls and abundant wildlife, including hippos, crocodiles, elephants, and buffaloes. Both UWA and private operators offer these excursions.

Game Viewing

Game viewing in Murchison Falls National Park is best on the Buligi Peninsula. This grassland area, bordered by the Victoria Nile and Albert Nile, offers sightings of elephants, buffaloes, antelopes, and giraffes. Visitors might even spot lions and leopards. The game track network converges at Delta Point, a prime spot for refreshments and viewing waterbirds and hippos.

Hot Air Balloon Safari

For a unique perspective, visitors can explore the park from the sky in a hot air balloon. These aerial safaris, managed by Jobihani Dream Balloons, offer stunning views of the plains north and west of Paraa.

Sport Fishing

The river below Murchison Falls provides a thrilling challenge for anglers. The record for Nile perch caught with a rod and line stands at an impressive 108 kilograms.

Exploring Beyond the Park

Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

Just 70 kilometers from the park, the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is home to Uganda’s only wild rhinos. Visitors can track these magnificent creatures on foot and support efforts to reintroduce rhinos to protected areas. For more details, visit the Rhino Fund website.

Getting to Murchison Falls National Park

Road Access

Several routes lead to the Nile at Paraa, the park’s main tourism hub. A ferry operates at intervals throughout the day, helping visitors cross the river.

Southern Entrance Gates

Two main routes from Masindi town, located 305 kilometers from Kampala, lead to Paraa. The most direct route, 86 kilometers long, enters the park through Kichumbanyobo Gate. This route passes the Kaniyo Pabidi section of Budongo Forest, the Heart of Murchison game viewing area, and Murchison Falls. The alternative scenic route, 136 kilometers long, goes through Bulisa and offers breathtaking views of Lake Albert and the Blue Mountains of the Democratic Republic of Congo. Visitors can also enter the park through Bugungu or Mubako gates, convenient for those staying in lodges near the park’s western boundary.