Murchison Falls National Park
Uganda
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A Landscape of Raw Power & Beauty
Uganda’s oldest and largest conservation area. Spanning nearly 3,900 square kilometers, Murchison Falls National Park is where the mighty Nile River—the longest in the world—is squeezed through a narrow 7-meter gorge before plunging 43 meters into the “Devil’s Cauldron.” The result is a thunderous roar and a permanent rainbow that defines the park’s majesty. From the palm-dotted savannas of the north to the dense, green shadows of Budongo Forest in the south, this park offers a dramatic transition of landscapes that has captivated explorers like Samuel Baker and Ernest Hemingway for decades.
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What to expect
Prepare for an immersive journey into the heart of the African wilderness. In Murchison Falls, the “Big Five” (minus the rhino, which you can visit nearby at Ziwa) roam freely across vast plains.
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Epic Wildlife: Expect to see the world’s largest population of Rothschild giraffes, massive herds of elephants, and prides of lions lounging under acacia trees.
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The Nile Magic: A safari here is unique because it combines land and water. Expect to cruise inches away from giant Nile crocodiles and pods of yawning hippos, while kingfishers and fish eagles dart overhead.
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Primates & More: In the southern sector, expect a complete change of scenery as you enter the jungle to find chimpanzees swinging through the ancient mahogany trees.
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Seasonal Overview
Murchison Falls is a year-round destination, but the seasons offer distinct experiences:
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The Dry Season : This is the optimal time for game viewing. As the savanna parches, animals gather in high concentrations along the Nile banks to drink, making them easy to spot. The tracks are dry, and the skies are clear—perfect for that iconic African sunset photo.
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The Wet Season : Known as the “Green Season,” the park turns into a lush emerald paradise. While wildlife may be more dispersed, this is the peak time for birdwatchers as migratory species arrive. The falls are at their most powerful during this time, and you’ll often enjoy lower lodge rates and a more private, crowd-free experience.
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Paraa Safari Lodge
Pakuba Safari Lodge
Murchison River Lodge
Paraa Safari Lodge
Located in the north west of Uganda over looking one of nature’s best kept secrets, the River Nile, on its journey from its source at Lake Victoria to join Lake Albert – here it is suddenly channeled into a gorge only six meters wide, and cascades 43 meters below. The earth literally trembles at Murchison Falls – one of the world’s most powerful flows of natural water.
Pakuba Safari Lodge
Feel not only the warm embrace of the natural wilderness, but also to recall the lodges thoughtful comforts and the pleasures of excellent cuisine and genuine heartfelt hospitality.
Murchison River Lodge
A fantastic mid-range option with comfortable tents and cottages overlooking the river.
Budongo Eco Lodge
The perfect base for those looking to trek chimpanzees and immerse themselves in the deep forest.
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Nile River Boat Cruise: The park’s highlight. A three-hour launch trip to the base of the falls to witness wildlife congregating at the water’s edge.
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Hike to the Top of the Falls: A rewarding trek that takes you to the very brink of the falls, where you can feel the ground vibrate from the force of the water.
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Chimpanzee Trekking in Budongo Forest: Head into the mahogany woodland to track habituated chimpanzees in their natural habitat.
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Hot Air Balloon Safaris: Experience the “Big Game” from a bird’s eye view as you soar over the savanna at sunrise.
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Delta Boat Cruise: A must for birders! Head downstream toward Lake Albert to search for the prehistoric-looking Shoebill Stork.
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Game Drives: Explore the Buligi tracks at dawn or dusk to find leopards, lions, and hyenas on the hunt.
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