Overview
Murchison Falls National Park is Uganda’s largest and oldest conservation area, covering approximately 3,893 square kilometers. It is home to diverse wildlife, stunning landscapes, and the breathtaking Murchison Falls, where the Nile River squeezes through a narrow gorge before plunging 43 meters into the Victoria Nile. This 3-day tour offers an exciting mix of game drives, boat safaris, and scenic exploration of one of Uganda’s most iconic parks.
Itinerary
Your adventure begins with an early morning departure from Kampala or Entebbe at around 6:00 AM. The journey to Murchison Falls National Park takes approximately 5-6 hours, passing through scenic landscapes, local villages, and roadside markets where you can sample fresh Ugandan fruits.
En Route Stop at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary (Optional)
For those interested, a stopover at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary in Nakasongola offers an opportunity for rhino tracking. This is the only place in Uganda where you can see rhinos in their natural habitat. After a brief walking safari to observe these endangered giants, continue toward the park.
Lunch Break & Entry into Murchison Falls National Park
Arrive at Masindi town or a lodge near the park for lunch before proceeding to the park’s main entrance. After completing entry formalities, drive through the scenic savannah and woodlands toward the Top of Murchison Falls.
Visit to the Top of Murchison Falls
One of the highlights of the trip is standing at the Top of the Falls, where the mighty Nile is forced through a 7-meter-wide gorge, creating a powerful, thunderous waterfall. Enjoy breathtaking views and take photos as mist rises from the crashing waters below.
Evening Check-in at Your Lodge
After exploring the falls, head to your lodge for check-in, relaxation, and dinner. Depending on your budget, you can stay in a luxury, mid-range, or budget accommodation within or near the park.
Early Morning Game Drive in Murchison Falls National Park
Wake up early for a morning game drive in the northern sector of the park. With the help of an experienced ranger guide, explore the vast savannahs and search for:
- Lions
- Elephants
- Buffaloes
- Giraffes
- Leopards
- Uganda kobs, hartebeests, oribis, and other antelopes
The game drive lasts about 3-4 hours and offers stunning wildlife encounters, with chances of seeing predators in action during the golden sunrise.
Return to Lodge for Breakfast & Relaxation
After the thrilling game drive, return to your lodge for a late breakfast and some relaxation.
Afternoon Boat Safari to the Bottom of the Falls
In the afternoon, embark on a boat safari along the Nile, heading to the base of Murchison Falls. This boat cruise offers close encounters with:
- Hippos
- Nile crocodiles
- Elephants drinking at the riverbanks
- Various bird species, including kingfishers, fish eagles, and the rare shoebill stork
The boat ride provides incredible photography opportunities and a chance to see the falls from a different perspective. The journey takes about 2-3 hours, and you can either return to the starting point or hike to the top of the falls for an adventurous 30-45-minute hike.
Evening at the Lodge
After the boat cruise, return to your lodge, enjoy dinner, and relax under the star-lit sky as you listen to the sounds of the wild.
Optional Second Game Drive or Nature Walk
For those interested, another early morning game drive offers additional wildlife sightings and a chance to spot animals missed on the previous day. Alternatively, enjoy a guided nature walk in the park before checking out of your lodge.
Departure from Murchison Falls National Park
After breakfast, begin your journey back to Kampala or Entebbe, with an optional stop for lunch along the way. Expect to arrive in the late afternoon, marking the end of an incredible 3-day adventure.
Cost
The Cost Includes
- ✔ Park entrance fees
- ✔ Transportation in a 4x4 safari vehicle
- ✔ English-speaking driver/guide
- ✔ Accommodation for 2 nights
- ✔ Meals as per itinerary
- ✔ Boat safari
- ✔ Game drives
- ✔ Bottled water
The Cost Excludes
- ❌ Personal expenses
- ❌ Alcoholic drinks and soft drinks
- ❌ Tips and gratuities
- ❌ Travel insurance
- ❌ Optional activities (Rhino tracking at Ziwa, Top of Falls hike, extra game drive)