Murchison Falls National Park, located in northwestern Uganda, is the country’s largest and one of its most visited protected areas, spanning approximately 3,893 square kilometers. The park is named after the dramatic Murchison Falls, where the mighty Nile River plunges through a narrow 6-meter gorge and drops 45 meters, creating the most powerful waterfall in Uganda. This incredible natural wonder lies in the Albertine Rift Valley and is surrounded by a mix of savannah, woodland, and riverine vegetation, offering spectacular scenery and biodiversity.
The park is renowned for its exceptional wildlife, hosting over 76 mammal species, including four of the Big Five—lions, leopards, elephants, and buffaloes—while white rhinos can be seen nearby at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary. Visitors can also encounter Rothschild’s giraffes, hartebeests, warthogs, hippos, crocodiles, and various antelope species. The tropical forests of Budongo, Kaniyo Pabidi, and Rabongo are home to over 10 species of primates, including chimpanzees, black-and-white colobus monkeys, and olive baboons. Bird enthusiasts can spot over 500 bird species, including the rare shoebill stork and Albertine Rift endemics.
The park’s key attractions include Murchison Falls itself, the iconic River Nile that bisects the park, and the Buligi Game Tracks, which offer some of the best game viewing opportunities in Uganda. The Nile supports a rich ecosystem, and a boat cruise along its waters offers a close view of hippos, crocodiles, elephants, and numerous bird species. The cruise can lead you either to the bottom of the falls or to the Albert Delta, a haven for birders searching for the elusive shoebill stork.
Activities in the park are diverse and thrilling. Game drives through Buligi, Queen’s, and Albert tracks are ideal for viewing wildlife, especially early in the morning and late afternoon. Guided nature walks through Rabongo and Kaniyo Pabidi forests allow visitors to encounter primates, birds, and other forest creatures up close. The top-of-the-falls hike offers a spectacular view of the powerful falls and the surrounding landscape, and it retraces the steps of early explorers like Winston Churchill.
Chimpanzee trekking is a highlight in Budongo and Kaniyo Pabidi forests, with treks starting early in the morning and guided by experienced trackers. Visitors observe chimpanzee communities in their natural habitat while learning about their behaviors, social interactions, and use of tools. Other exciting activities include sport fishing along the Nile, camping in the forest, birdwatching, and cultural encounters with nearby communities.
Murchison Falls National Park offers a complete African safari experience, blending incredible wildlife, dramatic landscapes, and rich history. From the roaring power of Murchison Falls to the calm stretches of the Nile and the vibrant ecosystems that surround them, the park is a must-visit destination in Uganda. Whether you’re a nature lover, adventure seeker, or wildlife enthusiast, a trip to Murchison Falls promises unforgettable memories.
