Murchison Falls National Park Safaris

Thundering Nile rapids, sweeping savannahs, and unforgettable encounters with Uganda’s iconic wildlife.

High Season

December to February and June to September

Size

Approx 3,840 square kilometres

Altitude

615–1,187 metres

above sea level

Murchison Falls National Park Safari Holidays

Where the Nile Meets the Wild

Murchison Falls National Park is Uganda’s largest and most dramatic reserve, where the world’s longest river explodes through a narrow gorge before cascading into the savannah below. This is a park of powerful contrasts — thundering waterfalls, vast plains teeming with wildlife, and tranquil boat rides along the Nile.

For travellers seeking a classic African safari with a uniquely Ugandan twist, Murchison Falls is a must-visit destination.

Why Visit Murchison Falls National Park?

Straddling the mighty River Nile in northwestern Uganda, Murchison Falls combines breathtaking landscapes with thrilling wildlife encounters. At its heart is the park’s namesake waterfall, where the Nile forces itself through a six-metre-wide gap in the rock before plunging 43 metres into a frothing cauldron. The sight, sound, and sheer force of the falls are unforgettable — a natural wonder that defines the park.

The landscapes here are strikingly diverse. To the north of the river, golden savannahs stretch endlessly, dotted with borassus palms and roamed by elephants, lions, and giraffes. To the south, dense forests shelter chimpanzees and rare birds, while papyrus swamps line the waterways. This mix of habitats makes Murchison Uganda’s most versatile safari destination.

What sets Murchison apart is the marriage of river and savannah. Game drives deliver iconic safari wildlife, while boat cruises bring close encounters with hippos, crocodiles, and waterbirds against the dramatic backdrop of the Nile. For many, it’s this duality — the land and the river — that makes Murchison feel like two safaris in one.



Cultural connections also enrich the experience. Local communities offer storytelling, crafts, and music, sharing traditions passed down through generations of living alongside the Nile. This combination of nature, wildlife, and heritage makes Murchison not just a park, but a journey into Uganda’s soul.

Wildlife and Nature

Murchison is a park of sensory splendour. The roar of the falls fills the air, mist rises above the gorge, and the scent of wild grasses drifts across the plains. At dawn, the savannah glows in golden light, while the river glitters as kingfishers skim its surface.



The park hosts an impressive 76 mammal species. Herds of elephants move slowly across the grasslands, Rothschild’s giraffes tower elegantly, and buffaloes gather in their hundreds. Predators thrive too — lions stalk the plains, leopards lurk in thickets, and spotted hyenas echo through the night. Nile crocodiles line the riverbanks, while hippos grunt in the shallows.

Murchison is also one of the best places in Uganda to see primates. The Budongo and Kaniyo Pabidi forests in the south shelter chimpanzees, black-and-white colobus monkeys, and olive baboons. Birders are spoiled, with over 450 bird species, including the prehistoric-looking shoebill stork, Goliath heron, and African fish eagle.

Seasonal changes shape the park’s rhythms. In the dry season, animals cluster along the Nile, creating spectacular wildlife concentrations. The green season brings fresh grass, young animals, and vivid birdlife — perfect for photographers seeking lush backdrops and dramatic skies.

Conservation projects, such as the Uganda Wildlife Authority’s work to protect Rothschild’s giraffes and collaborations with the Jane Goodall Institute in nearby forests, underscore Murchison’s importance. For travellers, the combination of river drama, savannah game, and rainforest primates makes Murchison a truly unique and unmissable safari destination.

Best Time to Visit Murchison Falls

The dry seasons (December–February and June–September) are the most popular times to visit.

Trails and roads are easier to navigate, vegetation is thinner, and wildlife is easier to spot as animals congregate around the Nile and its tributaries.

Boat cruises are particularly rewarding, with elephants and buffalo coming down to drink and predators waiting in the wings.

The wet seasons (March–May and October–November) transform the park into a lush paradise.

Heavy rains swell the river, intensifying the power of the falls, and create dramatic photography opportunities. Birdwatching peaks, with migratory species joining residents.

While wildlife is more dispersed, the scenery is breathtaking and the crowds fewer.

Special highlights include the shoebill stork, best spotted during the wet months in the park’s swamps, and primate activity in the southern forests, which remains excellent year-round.

For photography, early mornings and late afternoons are golden, casting warm light across the savannah and misty hues around the falls.

Practical travellers should note that some dirt roads can be muddy in the rains, but the park remains accessible, especially with the option of domestic flights.

Safari Experiences in Murchison Falls

Murchison offers a diverse portfolio of experiences that immerse visitors in both land and river safaris, ensuring no two days feel alike. Whether cruising the Nile, trekking forests, or watching lions on the hunt, the park delivers unforgettable moments at every turn.

• Boat Safari to the Falls: Perhaps the park’s most iconic activity, this cruise takes you along the Nile’s banks past pods of hippos, basking crocodiles, and elephants drinking at the water’s edge, culminating in the thunderous spectacle of Murchison Falls.
• Game Drives on the Savannah: North of the Nile, wide plains reveal lions, giraffes, elephants, and more. The density of wildlife rivals East Africa’s more famous reserves, yet without the crowds, making sightings feel personal and special.
• Top of the Falls Walk: Standing at the lip of Murchison Falls, where the Nile squeezes through its narrowest point, is a breathtaking experience. The spray, roar, and raw energy are unforgettable.
• Chimpanzee Tracking in Budongo Forest: Just south of the park, Budongo offers thrilling treks to see wild chimpanzees. Their calls echo through the canopy, and encounters here often feel intimate and unhurried.
• Delta Cruise to Lake Albert: For bird enthusiasts, the delta section of the Nile is a must. Here you can spot the elusive shoebill stork, along with fish eagles, pelicans, and colourful kingfishers.
• Cultural Encounters: Visits to nearby communities provide insight into the traditions of those living alongside the Nile. Dance, music, and storytelling connect travellers with Uganda’s heritage.
• Hot Air Balloon Safari: For a truly unique perspective, a sunrise balloon flight over the savannah reveals elephants, giraffes, and the snaking Nile from above.:

Where to Stay in Murchison Falls

Murchison Falls National Park offers a range of accommodation to suit different preferences and budgets, all set within or just outside the park boundaries. Options include:

• Eco-luxury lodges: Riverside retreats with infinity pools, private decks, and sweeping Nile views. Expect fine dining, world-class service, and eco-friendly design blending comfort with sustainability.
• Tented camps: Stay close to the wild with canvas under the stars. These camps offer ensuite bathrooms, cosy furnishings, and the romance of lantern-lit evenings by the river.
• Boutique bush retreats: Small-scale lodges rich in character, offering personalised hosting, authentic design, and tranquil settings. Perfect for travellers seeking intimacy and charm.

At Awake in the Wild, we work only with lodges and camps that meet our ethical and sustainability standards. Whether you’re looking for solar-powered luxury or a simple campfire safari experience, we’ll match you to the perfect base. If you don’t see the exact lodge or camp you’re looking for, just let us know — we’re able to arrange a variety of stays to suit different tastes, travel styles, and budgets.

A Selection of our Murchison Falls Safari Accommodation

We have access to a wide range of handpicked accommodation options — from rustic eco-camps and authentic bush lodges to stylish tented retreats with breathtaking views. If you don’t see the exact lodge or camp you’re looking for, just let us know — we can arrange a variety of stays to suit different tastes, travel styles, and budgets.

Average Weather and Climate in Murchison Falls

Murchison enjoys a warm, tropical climate with average daytime temperatures between 25–32°C. The dry seasons (December–February and June–September) are hot and sunny, with cooler mornings perfect for game drives.

The long rains (March–May) bring lush greenery, swelling the Nile and intensifying the falls. The short rains (October–November) are lighter but still refresh the landscapes and encourage vibrant birdlife.

Seasonal shifts affect both scenery and wildlife. In the dry months, animals cluster near water, providing easy viewing. In the rains, the park’s beauty peaks, with flowers, birds, and dramatic skies adding richness to the experience.



Weather impacts access: dirt tracks can be muddy during the rains, but the park remains open, and domestic flights make travel easier year-round.

Combine with Other Destinations

Murchison combines beautifully with other Ugandan highlights. To the southwest lies Kibale Forest National Park, famous for chimpanzees, and further south, Queen Elizabeth National Park offers tree-climbing lions and boat safaris.

For those seeking Uganda’s ultimate adventure, pairing Murchison with Bwindi Impenetrable Forest creates a thrilling itinerary that spans gorilla trekking, river safaris, and savannah game drives.

The park’s location also makes it a natural starting or ending point for a wider safari circuit across northern and western Uganda. Talk to us about tailoring an itinerary that connects Murchison’s river drama with Uganda’s other unforgettable landscapes.

Travelling from the UK to Murchison Falls

Travellers typically fly from the UK into Entebbe International Airport near Kampala.

From there, Murchison is reached via a 5–6 hour road transfer or a short domestic flight to Pakuba or Bugungu airstrips.

Awake in the Wild arranges all international and domestic travel, ensuring your journey is seamless from start to finish.

Discover the Wild, Your Way: Tailor Your Murchison Falls Safari with Us

Murchison Falls National Park is a place of raw power and natural beauty — where the Nile explodes through rock, herds roam the plains, and riverbanks teem with life. It’s a park that captures both the drama and serenity of Africa, offering a safari like no other.



Talk to us about the experiences you’ve always dreamed of. We’ll match you with handpicked lodges, expert local guides, and authentic adventures that bring Murchison Falls National Park to life.

Speak to one of our safari specialists today — call us or fill out our quick enquiry form, and let’s start planning your tailor-made adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions