Murchison Falls National Park is famed for its unforgettable wildlife encounters, particularly in terms of encounters with large game. With this 3-day safari in Murchison Falls NP, anticipate an enriching experience through a memorable game drive and boat cruise. As Uganda’s largest wildlife park, Murchison Falls National Park sprawls over 3840 square kilometers, boasting diverse habitats that harbor a plethora of wildlife.
Established in 1952, Murchison Falls NP holds the distinction of being Uganda’s sole park in the Northwest and one of its oldest protected areas. It serves as a sanctuary for a variety of wildlife species including lions, leopards, buffaloes, elephants, warthogs, hartebeests, oribis, crocodiles, hyenas, Rothschild giraffes, and primates like chimpanzees. The park also hosts a remarkable avian population, with 451 bird species, including the iconic shoebill storks.
Divided by the Victoria Nile into Northern and Southern sections, Murchison Falls NP is home to one of the world’s most formidable waterfalls: Murchison Falls itself.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Rhino Tracking & Top of the Falls
Indulge in a delightful breakfast at your hotel in Entebbe or Kampala before meeting your safari leader for a briefing and embarking on the journey to Murchison Falls National Park. Depart early in the morning, traversing the Kampala-Luweero-Masindi route, with an estimated travel time of 6-7 hours.
Pause along the way for a visit to the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, where you’ll have the opportunity to observe rhinos in their natural habitat. After tracking the rhinos, continue to Masindi town for lunch, followed by a visit to the top of the falls. Here, marvel at the breathtaking sight of the Murchison Falls as it surges through a narrow rock cleft of 7-8 meters.
Day 2: Game Drive & Boat Cruise Expeditions – Murchison Falls NP
Commence your day with a delicious breakfast before embarking on a morning game drive. Explore the Northern circuit, renowned for its abundance of wildlife, including hyenas, lions, leopards, jackals, Rothschild giraffes, various bird species, Jackson’s hartebeests, oribis, buffaloes, and elephants.
Afterward, return to the lodge for a leisurely lunch before setting off for an afternoon launch/boat cruise along the Victoria Nile from the Paraa jetty. Experience sightings of incredible aquatic life, such as crocodiles and hippos, as well as a diverse array of bird species along the riverbank. Capture the awe-inspiring beauty of the Murchison Falls before returning to the lodge for relaxation and overnight stay.
Day 3: Game Viewing & Return to Kampala/Entebbe City
Following a hearty breakfast, depart the lodge for an early morning game viewing session or proceed directly back to Kampala/Entebbe. As you exit the park via the Southern gate at Kichumbanyobo, keep an eye out for olive baboons amid the lush Budongo Forest. Continue your journey, aiming to arrive early for drop-off at a hotel or Entebbe Airport, marking the conclusion of your safari adventure.