Murchison Falls National Park is Uganda’s most popular and diverse safari destination. It is where the mighty River Nile forces its way through a narrow gorge and plunges 45 meters down, creating the dramatic and powerful Murchison Falls one of nature’s greatest spectacles.
Beyond the falls, the park offers breathtaking scenery, diverse wildlife, and unforgettable safari experiences that make it a must-visit destination for every traveler.
Murchison Falls got its name in 1862, when the British explorer Sir Samuel Baker became the first European to see the falls. Deeply impressed by its power and beauty, he named it “Murchison Falls” in honor of Roderick Impey Murchison, who was the then President of the Royal Geographical Society in London.
However, the falls are also known by their local name “Kabalega Falls,” named after King Kabalega of Bunyoro, one of Uganda’s great historical rulers who resisted colonial rule.
Today, both names are recognized, but “Murchison Falls” remains the official and most widely used name representing not just a geographical wonder, but also a blend of Uganda’s natural beauty, history, and heritage.
Explore the vast savannah plains on guided game drives and encounter lions, elephants, giraffes, leopards, buffaloes, and a variety of antelope species. Morning, evening, and night drives are available for the best wildlife sightings.
Enjoy a scenic cruise along the Nile River to the base of the falls. Watch hippos, crocodiles, elephants, and abundant birdlife along the riverbanks including the rare shoebill stork.
Take a guided hike to the top of the mighty falls and experience the incredible power and beauty of the Nile as it squeezes through a narrow gorge.
Cruise downstream to the Nile Delta where the river flows into Lake Albert. This activity is ideal for bird enthusiasts and nature lovers.
With over 450 bird species, Murchison Falls is a paradise for bird lovers. Expect to spot the African fish eagle, Goliath heron, Abyssinian ground hornbill, and many others.
Discover the park’s hidden beauty on foot with guided nature walks through forests, along riverbanks, and across open plains.
Start your day with a freshly prepared bush breakfast or unwind with an evening sundowner as you take in the magical views of the African wilderness.
Challenge yourself with an exciting sport fishing experience on the Nile. Catch species such as Nile perch and catfish in one of Africa’s most scenic fishing spots.
Meet the local communities around the park, enjoy traditional dances, learn about their culture, and support community-based tourism.
Lions
Leopards
Elephants
Buffaloes
(Rhinos can be seen en route at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary before entering the park.)
Rothschild’s Giraffes
Uganda Kobs
Jackson’s Hartebeests
Oribis
Waterbucks
Bushbucks
Warthogs
Baboons
Patas Monkeys
Olive Baboons
Vervet Monkeys
Hippos
Nile Crocodiles
Chimpanzees
Black-and-white Colobus Monkeys
Red-tailed Monkeys
Blue Monkeys
Shoebill Stork
African Fish Eagle
Goliath Heron
Abyssinian Ground Hornbill
Kingfishers
African Jacana
Saddle-billed Stork
Murchison Falls National Park, managed by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA), is organized into key departments to ensure wildlife conservation, visitor safety, and community engagement:
Wildlife Management: Protects animals and monitors populations.
Tourism & Recreation: Manages lodges, game drives, boat cruises, and visitor experiences.
Research & Monitoring: Studies wildlife, habitats, and conservation efforts.
Community & Cultural Affairs: Engages local communities and promotes cultural tourism.
Operations & Infrastructure: Maintains roads, facilities, and park operations.
Law Enforcement & Security: Ensures anti-poaching measures and overall safety.
Do follow your guide’s instructions at all times.
Do keep a safe distance from all wildlife.
Do stay inside the vehicle during game drives unless instructed otherwise.
Do carry water, sun protection, and insect repellent.
Do wear neutral-colored clothing to blend in with the environment.
Do respect local communities and cultural sites.
Do take photographs responsibly without disturbing animals.
Do dispose of trash properly and help keep the park clean.
Don’t feed or provoke animals.
Don’t make loud noises that may scare wildlife.
Don’t leave designated trails or your vehicle without a guide.
Don’t smoke or start fires inside the park.
Don’t collect plants, rocks, or wildlife souvenirs.
Don’t carry firearms or hunt in the park.
Don’t ignore park rules or speed limits while driving.