Murchison Falls National Park

All About Murchison Falls National Park

Discover Murchison Falls National Park

This National Park is Located in

Uganda

The Murchison Falls National Park in Uganda is part of the Murchison Falls Conservation Area (MFCA), along with Bugungu and Karuma Falls Wildlife Reserve. One of the defining features of the Murchison Falls National Park is the large river where hippos and crocodiles are often spotted along the banks. Primarily, the area is made up of savannah, river, and woodland which forms a home for giraffes, primates, and wild cats such as lions and leopards.

Embark On A Murchison Falls National Park Safari

In fact, the Murchison Falls National Park is perhaps one of the biggest in Uganda and has over seventy-six different species of mammal. If you look closely on your next game drive, you’ll be able to see several species of monkeys hiding in the trees. Do you prefer bird watching? No problem! There are over four-hundred and fifty birds recorded in the Murchison Falls National Park.

Of course, the focal point of any trip to Murchison Falls is seeing the waterfall the park gets its namesake from. Forcing its way through a gorge only eight meters wide, the African Nile is turned from a peaceful watering hole to an exciting waterfall. You could include a boat ride upstream towards the Murchison Falls as part of your safari package for an unforgettable once in a lifetime experience.

Visit the ever-flowing majestic Murchison Falls!

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Murchison Falls National Park Park Entry Fee

Category	Fee (USD) – Foreign Non-Residents	Fee (USD) – Foreign Residents	Fee (UGX) – East African Citizens
Adults	45	35	25,000
Children (5-15 years)	25	15	10,000
Children (Below 5 years)	Free	Free	Free

Vehicle Entry Fees

Vehicle Type	Fee (USD) – Foreign-Registered	Fee (UGX) – East African-Registered
Saloon Cars	40	20,000
Mini Buses	50	30,000
Pick-ups & 4WD Vehicles	50	30,000

These fees are subject to change, so it’s recommended to check with the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) or a tour operator for updated rates.

Best Time to Visit Murchison Falls National Park

The best time to visit Murchison Falls National Park is during the dry seasons from December to February and June to September. These months offer ideal conditions for wildlife viewing, as animals gather around water sources, making them easier to spot. The roads and trails are also more accessible, allowing for smoother game drives and boat safaris. Boat cruises to the base of Murchison Falls, game drives, and chimpanzee trekking in Budongo Forest are at their best during this period.

Low Season

March to May, October and November

The low season is characterized by heavy rains, making some roads muddy and challenging to navigate. However, this period sees fewer tourists, allowing for a quieter safari experience and lower accommodation rates. The park is especially lush, providing stunning green landscapes, and is a great time for birdwatching, as migratory birds arrive. Though wildlife is more scattered due to abundant water sources, boat safaris along the Nile still offer excellent views of hippos, crocodiles, and elephants.

High Season

December to February, June and July

The high season brings moderate weather with less rainfall, making game drives more accessible. Wildlife tends to gather around permanent water sources, making it easier to spot lions, elephants, giraffes, and buffalo. The park starts seeing more visitors, especially during the December holidays, as well as in June and July, when dry conditions improve road accessibility.

Peak Season

August and September

The peak season is the best time for wildlife viewing, as the dry conditions force animals to congregate around the Nile and other remaining water sources. This period attracts the highest number of tourists, and accommodations often get fully booked. Activities like game drives, boat cruises to the base of Murchison Falls, and chimpanzee trekking in Budongo Forest are at their best. However, due to the high demand, prices for lodges and guided tours tend to be at their highest.

How to get to Murchison Falls National Park

By Road

From Kampala it’s approx. 305 km making it a 5 to 6 hours drive. Take Kampala–Masindi road via Luweero and Kafu to Masindi town, then proceed to the park’s entrance at Kichumbanyobo Gate. Alternative routes pass through Pakwach or Tangi Gate for travelers coming from northern Uganda. A 4WD vehicle is recommended, especially during the rainy season.

By Air

Chartered flights are available from Entebbe International Airport or Kajjansi Airstrip to Pakuba, Chobe, or Bugungu airstrips within the park. The flight takes about 1 hour.

By Water

Visitors can take a boat safari along the Nile River from Paraa to the base of Murchison Falls, offering a unique perspective of the wildlife and scenery.

Best Places to Stay in Murchison Falls National Park

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Gallery of Murchison Falls National Park

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