Destination: Murchison Falls National Park
1. Location and Distance from Kampala
Murchison Falls National Park is located in northwestern Uganda, spanning the districts of
Buliisa, Nwoya, Kiryandongo, and Masindi. The park is about 305 kilometers (190 miles)
northwest of Kampala, the capital city of Uganda. The drive from Kampala to the park typically
takes about (5-6) hours by road, depending on the route and road conditions.
2. History
Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda’s largest national park, was established in 1952. Its
history, however, goes back much further. The park is named after the Murchison Falls, a
spectacular waterfall where the Nile River squeezes through a narrow gorge and plunges down
with immense force.
-Pre-Colonial Era ,The area around Murchison Falls has long been inhabited by various ethnic
groups, including the Bunyoro and Alur peoples, who utilized the Nile for fishing and
transportation.
– Colonial Era, During the late 19th century, European explorers like Sir Samuel Baker and his
wife, Florence, visited the area. Baker named the falls after Sir Roderick Murchison, the
president of the Royal Geographical Society. In the early 20th century, the area became a
hunting ground for colonial administrators and visitors.
-National Park Establishment In 1952, the area was gazetted as Murchison Falls National
Park.The park has faced various challenges, including poaching and civil unrest, particularly
during the 1970s and 1980s. Conservation efforts have since helped to restore wildlife
populations and infrastructure.
3.Activities
Murchison Falls National Park offers a wide range of activities for visitors:
1. Game Drives, The park is home to a rich diversity of wildlife, including elephants, lions,
leopards, buffaloes, giraffes, and various antelope species. Game drives are typically conducted
in the early morning or late afternoon when animals are most active.
2.Boat Safaris, A boat trip along the Nile River to the base of Murchison Falls is one of the
park’s highlights. Visitors can see hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species, including the
rare shoebill stork.
3.Hiking to the Top of the Falls, After the boat safari, visitors can hike to the top of Murchison
Falls for a closer view of the waterfall and the surrounding landscape. The hike offers
breathtaking views and photo opportunities.
4. Bird Watching. The park is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 450 bird species recorded.
Some notable species include the Goliath heron, African fish eagle, and the rare shoebill stork.
5.Fishing, Sport fishing is popular in the Nile River, particularly for Nile perch and tiger fish.
Fishing permits are required, and local guides are available to assist.
6.Chimpanzee Tracking, In the nearby Budongo Forest Reserve, visitors can go on guided
walks to track chimpanzees and observe them in their natural habitat.
7.Cultural Encounters, Visitors can engage with local communities and learn about the cultures
and traditions of the people living around the park. This often includes traditional dances, music,
and crafts.
8.Hot Air Balloon Safaris, for a unique perspective, hot air balloon safaris offer aerial views of
the park’s landscape and wildlife.
Murchison Falls National Park, with its diverse wildlife, stunning landscapes, and rich history,
remains one of Uganda’s premier tourist destinations.
3 Days 10 Pax Murchison Falls
DAY1 Pick up from accommodation and embark on the journey to Murchison Falls, Enroute Ziwa Rhino sanctuary for White- Rhino Tracking, have lunch and embark on the journey to Murchison, check-in into accommodation (Pakuba hotel for mid-range /luxury, Red Chilli or Bamboo forest Lodge for budget. DAY2 Early morning breakfast, then embark on a morning…
From $750.00