Things to Do and See in Murchison Falls National Park

Things to Do and See in Murchison Falls National Park

Planning a safari to Murchison Falls National Park? Excursia Adventures can help you design the perfect itinerary for an unforgettable experience in one of Uganda’s most thrilling destinations. Located in the northern region of the Albertine Rift Valley, Murchison Falls National Park is a gem, offering a wide array of attractions. The park is home to over 76 mammal species, including four members of the Big Five—lions, leopards, elephants, and buffaloes—as well as giraffes, hyenas, Uganda kobs, and waterbucks. Along the shores of the Nile, you’ll find hippos, crocodiles, and a host of other fascinating creatures.

The park is also known for its impressive primate population, including baboons and various monkey species. For birdwatching enthusiasts, Murchison Falls is home to over 450 bird species, including the elusive shoebill stork. The park gets its name from the mighty Murchison Falls, formerly known as Kabalega Falls, and is Uganda’s largest national park, covering 3,840 square kilometers. With so much to explore, your visit here will be truly unforgettable. Below are some of the top things to see and do during your trip to Murchison Falls National Park:

Wildlife Viewing

Murchison Falls National Park offers some of the best wildlife viewing experiences in Africa. With over 76 mammal species and 451 bird species, including lions, giraffes, elephants, and the iconic shoebill stork, the park’s diverse landscape is a dream for wildlife lovers. Game drives can start as early as 6:00 AM to catch predators in action, or you can opt for afternoon or evening drives. Most game drives take place in the northern section of the park, where animals are more concentrated. Driving slowly through the park allows for excellent photography opportunities and a chance to appreciate the stunning savannah landscape.

Boat Cruise to the Bottom of Murchison Falls

One of the most iconic experiences in Murchison Falls National Park is the boat cruise along the River Nile to the base of the falls. This two-hour cruise offers an up-close view of the falls, which are breathtaking as the Nile forces its way through a narrow gorge. Along the way, you’ll spot hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of other wildlife that come to the riverbanks to drink. Bird lovers will enjoy seeing numerous bird species, and you’ll get plenty of photo opportunities. The boat cruises are offered in the morning and afternoon, so you can choose the time that works best for your itinerary.

Hot Air Balloon Safari

For a truly unique experience, take a hot air balloon ride over the park’s vast savannah. This exciting adventure gives you a bird’s-eye view of the wildlife, rivers, and landscapes of Murchison Falls National Park. The balloon can carry up to 8 passengers and soars up to 10,000 feet, offering an unforgettable aerial perspective. Hot air balloon rides typically last between 45 minutes to an hour, and you can even enjoy a romantic champagne toast as you float over the African wilderness. Both sunrise and sunset rides are available, providing breathtaking views at the most magical times of day.

Cultural Experiences

Engage with the local communities near Murchison Falls National Park for an authentic cultural encounter. You’ll have the opportunity to learn about the traditional lifestyles, languages, and customs of the surrounding tribes. Visit local craft centers to purchase handmade souvenirs, and watch cultural performances at some of the lodges. Supporting these community initiatives helps improve local livelihoods, enabling people to send their children to school and improve their standard of living. It’s a meaningful way to give back while enriching your own safari experience.

Hike and Visit to the Top of Murchison Falls

A visit to the top of Murchison Falls is a must-do experience when exploring Murchison Falls National Park. One of the park’s most breathtaking sights, this adventure starts with a boat cruise that takes you to the base of the trail for a one-hour hike to the top of the falls. As you ascend, you’ll be rewarded with stunning viewpoints where you can capture incredible photos of both the mighty Murchison Falls and the neighboring Uhuru Falls. The view from the top is nothing short of spectacular, as you witness the powerful force of the Nile squeezing through a narrow gorge before plunging down the cliff.

Chimpanzee Tracking in Murchison Falls National Park

Chimpanzee tracking is another highlight of a visit to Murchison Falls National Park, and it’s an unforgettable experience for any wildlife enthusiast. This activity takes place in Budongo Forest Reserve, which is located within the park and home to a thriving population of around 700 chimpanzees. Chimp tracking can be done either in the morning or afternoon, and Excursia Adventures can arrange your permits and trek for you. Budongo Forest is one of the oldest and most ecologically significant rainforests in East Africa, and research on the chimpanzees here dates back to the 1960s. Conservation efforts have helped these chimpanzee communities grow steadily, and visitors are invited to experience this unique primate encounter in their natural habitat.

Where to Stay in Murchison Falls National Park

Murchison Falls National Park offers a wide range of accommodation options, from cozy tented camps to luxurious lodges with panoramic views of the Nile. Whether you’re looking for a high-end experience or a more budget-friendly option, you’ll find something that suits your needs. The lodges are renowned for their hospitality, delicious meals, and a chance to relax under the African sun after a day of adventure.

For a luxurious stay, top choices include Chobe Safari Lodge, Nile Safari Lodge, and Bakers Lodge. If you prefer midrange options, Kabalega Wilderness Camp, Paraa Safari Lodge, and Murchison River Lodge are great choices. Budget travelers can enjoy comfort and affordability at Pakuba Safari Lodge, Pumba Safari Lodge, and Red Chili Hideaway Lodge. Many lodges offer additional amenities such as swimming pools, spas, and fitness centers, ensuring a comfortable and memorable stay.

At Excursia Adventures, we can help you select the perfect lodge based on your budget and preferences, tailoring your itinerary for an ideal safari experience in Murchison Falls National Park.

Why Book Your Murchison Falls Safari with Excursia Adventures?

Excursia Adventures is dedicated to providing incredible safari experiences in Murchison Falls National Park, across Uganda, and the East African region. Our team of passionate and experienced Ugandan guides and staff are committed to making your adventure unforgettable. We offer a range of discounted packages and tailor-made safaris to fit your needs. Excursia Adventures is highly rated on TripAdvisor and SafariBookings, and we pride ourselves on delivering authentic, well-organized safaris that our guests rave about. Contact us today to start planning your dream safari to Murchison Falls National Park!