Murchison Falls National Park is Uganda's largest and oldest national park. Here the Nile squeezes through a gap just a few metres wide and crashes down with enormous force, creating one of the most powerful waterfalls on earth.
Top experiences
- Top of the Falls: hike to the viewpoint and feel the spray and thunder.
- Nile boat cruise: see hippos, crocodiles, elephants and birds on the way to the base of the falls.
- Delta cruise: a top spot to look for the rare shoebill stork.
- Game drives: the northern plains host lions, giraffes, buffalo, elephants and antelope.
- Chimpanzee trekking in Budongo Forest.
Animals you can see
Rothschild's giraffe, lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, Uganda kob, hartebeest, oribi, hippo, Nile crocodile and hundreds of bird species.
Best time to visit
The dry seasons (December to February and June to September) are best for game viewing, but the falls are spectacular all year.
Getting there
Drive from Kampala in about five to six hours through Masindi, or fly to one of the park's airstrips. Many visitors stop at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary on the way.
Tips
- Book park and activity permits through the Uganda Wildlife Authority or a licensed tour operator
- Carry binoculars, sunscreen and insect repellent
- Stay at least two nights to enjoy both banks of the river
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