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Murchison falls National Park

This is Uganda’s largest and oldest conservation area. This paradise of thunderous waterfalls on the Nile River, the tranquil Lake Albert and lots and lots of wildlife, is located in Uganda’s largest and oldest conservation area. It can be accessed via Masindi or Pakwach districts.

What you get to do here will be limited by how much time you have to spend: hikes, bird-watching, safari, launch drives or just kicking off your shoes and watching the gorgeous sunsets! Accommodation is readily available and for all budgets too.

Location: North-western Uganda. 5-hour drive from Kampala.

Top things to do

Thrilling Wildlife Safaris

As you would expect, the Nile is home to an array of aquatic birds and wildlife. As you enjoy a boat ride through the falls, look out for crocodiles and hippos wallowing in the shallows or basking in the heat on the banks. Heading further in to the national park you can expect to see more traditional African game such as buffalo, giraffes and even lions. Although you won’t see quite the range and density of wildlife as you might in other east African destinations, there will still be plenty to keep safari goers excited and enthralled.

Chimp Tracking

Budongo Forest is often overlooked in terms of chimpanzee trekking, with many favoring Kibale Forest National Park instead. However, this does mean that trekkers are likely to enjoy a more intimate experience with fewer other tourists per group. Trek through the forest in search of mischievous chimpanzees, seeing the infants rolling around in the leaves while the grooming adults look on. Although the chimpanzees are habituated family groups, they still behave in a natural way making them a delight to watch.

Bird Watching

Uganda is full of colorful birdlife, darting through the trees and perching on the banks of the Nile. Look out for beautiful bee-eaters, hornbills, kingfishers and woodpeckers. If you want to discover the swampland around Murchison, you must keep your eyes peeled for huge, almost Jurassic, shoebills. These tall birds, with their stork legs and large beaks are truly unique and Murchison is one of the best places to spot and photograph these birds.

Hiking

From short trails to strenuous hikes, Murchison Falls has some stunning walks for all abilities. Discover the protected conservation areas awash with flora and fauna with the help of your expert guide. One of the joys of hiking around Murchison is hearing the rush of the falls in the distance and working your way towards the water. The hike will be worth it once you reach the falls and feel the spray on your face.

Hot Air Balloon Safaris

What better way to discover the beauty of Murchison Falls National Park and its wildlife than from the air? A Murchison hot air balloon safari enables you to sail peacefully through the sky, at sunrise or sunset, for a spectacular bird’s eye view when the animals are at their most active. Comfortable, spacious baskets allow for an unforgettable journey over the plains. For an additional touch of luxury, the hot air balloon safaris is combined with a delicious bush breakfast prepared for you on landing.

Fishing

Murchison can be a fantastic place to enjoy a bit of sport fishing while in Uganda. Head out for a full or half day in the hopes of catching a range of species such as tiger fish, cat fish and Nile perch. Fishing around the Nile can be particularly hot so it is recommended you take plenty of water, sun cream and lightweight, long-sleeved clothing. Your expert guide will suggest the best locations and time of day to go out fishing for the best chances.

Recommended Journeys

3 Days Murchison Falls Safari in Uganda: A Reliable & Affordable Tour

1-3 Days
Murchison falls is the best and most convenient park to take a safari. This 3 days’ safari is the best way to experience an authentic safari to a park that has diverse wildlife and landscapes to explore.
From$406
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Classic Murchison Safari

1-3 Days
Murchison falls is the best and most convenient park to take a safari. This 3 days’ safari is the best way to experience an authentic safari to a park that has diverse wildlife and landscapes to explore.
From$522
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The Premium Plan

Choice of Accommodation: Gorilla Safari Lodge

Gorilla Safari Lodge is a private and secluded upmarket lodge with spectacular views of the Bwindi rainforest and located close to the Gorilla Trekking starting point. The lodge consists of spacious chalets, the main lodge area with a restaurant, and a bar overlooking the Bwindi rainforest and a gift shop. It also has free WIFI available at the main lodge area.

Room description:

These are chalets, each consisting of a spacious room, a private terrace, and en-suite bathroom. They are beautifully decorated and nicely lit with great views of the Bwindi rainforest. Each room is fitted with large comfortable beds, plush linen, mosquito net wrapping around the bed, lounge furniture, and a fireplace. The bathrooms have flush toilets and showers with hot and cold running water.

Meals:

Meals are all included; 2 breakfasts, two lunches, and two dinners. The restaurant offers 3-course meals of local and international specialties.

Benefits

Spacious and nicely-decorated rooms

Great location

Spectacular views of Bwindi rainforest

Elaborate meals and variety of choices

Spacious restaurant

Free WIFI

Drawbacks

No WIFI in the rooms

What is the price?

Pax123456
Price per person$2,125$1,754$1,692$1,661$1,642$1,629

Prices are based on double room occupancy. You can upgrade to a single room for $106 per person.

Available Extensions to your 3 days Gorilla Trekking Safari to Bwindi

  • One night extension to Ishasha for a safari in Queen Elizabeth National Park - $510 per person
  • Two nights extension to Ishasha for a safari in Queen Elizabeth National Park - $965 per person
  • One night extension to Lake Bunyonyi including canoeing excursion - $239 per person
  • Two nights extension to Lake Bunyonyi including canoe trekking - $418 per person
  • One night extension to Lake Mburo National Park for safari - $415 per person
  • Two nights extension to Lake Mburo National Park for safari - $799 per person
  • Two nights extension to Lake Mburo National Park for safari including a 4-hour Horseback Safari and Bush Breakfast - $934 per person
  • One day extension of the Gorilla Trekking Safari including 1 Gorilla permit - $1,066 per person

The Medium Plan

Choice of Accommodation: Rushaga Gorilla Camp

Rushaga Gorilla Camp is a mid-range mountain lodge located in the south-eastern part of the park near one of the four gorilla trekking starting points known as Rushaga. The lodge has excellent panoramic views of the Bwindi forest and is a 5 minutes' walk to the gorilla trekking starting point. It also has a restaurant that offers a full English breakfast, an a la carte lunch menu, and a choice of 3 set meals for dinner. You can also access free WIFI at the main lounge and restaurant area of the lodge.

Room description:

These are spacious cottages with large comfortable beds and linen, lounge furniture, and a private terrace looking towards the Bwindi rainforest. All rooms have a spacious private bathroom with flush toilets, solar-powered hot showers, a sink, and a dressing countertop and mirror.

Meals:

Your stay includes two breakfasts, two lunches, and two dinners. The meals are all made from western or intercontinental cuisine.

Benefits

Relatively good price

Great location

Spacious rooms

Views of the Bwindi rainforest

Free WIFI

Drawbacks

Not nicely decorated

The linen is comfortable but not plush

Limited food items at the restaurant

What is the price?

Pax123456
Price per person$1,834$1,448$1,385$1,354$1,335$1,323

Prices are based on double room occupancy. You can upgrade to a single room for $146 per person.

Available Extensions to your 3 days Gorilla Trekking Safari to Bwindi

  • One night extension to Ishasha for a safari in Queen Elizabeth National Park - $290 per person
  • Two nights extension to Ishasha for a safari in Queen Elizabeth National Park - $527 per person
  • One night extension to Lake Bunyonyi including canoeing excursion - $239 per person
  • Two nights extension to Lake Bunyonyi including canoe trekking - $418 per person
  • One night extension to Lake Mburo National Park for safari - $279 per person
  • Two nights extension to Lake Mburo National Park for safari - $527 per person
  • One day extension of the Gorilla Trekking Safari including 1 Gorilla permit - $913 per person

The Basic Plan

Choice of Accommodation: Gorilla Valley Lodge

Gorilla Valley Lodge is a small, low-budget lodge located in the south-eastern part of the park near one of the four gorilla trekking starting points known as Rushaga. The lodge has a small restaurant that offers a basic continental breakfast and a few options of international cuisine for lunch and dinner.

Room Description

These are clean and modestly furnished brick and motor rooms consisting of a comfortable bed, linen, towels, and en-suite bathrooms. The bathrooms have solar-powered hot water showers and flush toilets. The rooms also have lighting, power plugs, and mosquito nets over the beds.

Meals

Only breakfast and dinner are included in the basic plan. You can order lunch daily at the restaurant.

Benefits

Affordable and comfortable rooms

Good location

Drawbacks

Basic facilities

Small rooms

Limited meal options

Limited views

No internet access

Note:

If there are no rooms available at the time of your booking. We will provide a suitable replacement.

What is the price?

Pax123456
Price per person $1,438$1,187$1,125$1,094$1,075$1,062

Prices are based on double room occupancy. You can upgrade to a single room for $89 per person.

Available Extensions to your 3 days Gorilla Trekking Safari to Bwindi

  • One night extension to Ishasha for a safari in Queen Elizabeth National Park - $234 per person
  • Two nights extension to Ishasha for a safari in Queen Elizabeth National Park - $415 per person
  • One night extension to Lake Bunyonyi including canoeing excursion - $169 per person
  • Two nights extension to Lake Bunyonyi including canoe trekking - $278 per person
  • One night extension to Lake Mburo National Park for safari - $212 per person
  • Two nights extension to Lake Mburo National Park for safari - $392 per person

The Premium Plan

Choice of Accommodation: Paraa Safari Lodge

Paraa Safari Lodge is an upmarket lodge with the refinements of a 3-star hotel, located in the center of the park looking over the Nile river. Facilities include spacious rooms, a restaurant, a bar, a pool with a bar, and a gift shop.

Paraa safari lodge boasts the best location in the park and offers the conveniences of being so close to the jetty for your boat safari on the Nile river, and close to the game viewing areas of the park. No lodge offers more conveniences for your 3 Days Murchison Falls Safari than Paraa Safari Lodge.

Room description:

The rooms are nicely lit, decorated with plush linen, and towels. All rooms have a private bathroom with hot showers and a hairdryer. The rooms have a coffee bar, a reading table, refrigerator, complimentary bottled water, and a private balcony.

Meals:

Meals are all included; two breakfasts, two lunches and two dinners. The restaurant offers three-course meals of local and international specialties.

Benefits

Spacious and comfortable rooms

WIFI available in all rooms

Great location for game drives and boat safari

Elaborate meals and variety of choices

Drawbacks

The standard rooms have a ceiling fan, but no air-conditioning. You can upgrade to a deluxe room for $35 per person per room.

Note: If there are no rooms available at the time of your booking, we will recommend a suitable replacement.

What is the price?

Pax123456
Price per person$1,241$902$825$786$763$748

Prices are based on double room occupancy. You can upgrade to a single room for $106 per person.

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The Medium Plan

Choice of Accommodation: Pakuba Safari Lodge

Pakuba Safari Lodge is a mid-range lodge, located on the northern side of the park facing the Albert Nile. The facilities include a restaurant, terraced room blocks and a swimming pool.

The lodge is in an excellent location for game drives and with nicely furnished rooms, offering you better value for your money compared to other mid-range accommodations, making Pakuba the ideal lodge for your 3 Days Murchison Falls Safari.

Room description:

All rooms have a private bathroom with solar-powered hot showers, a reading table, a closet, and a private terrace. The rooms are all air-conditioned.

Meals:

This plan is inclusive of all meals. The price includes two breakfasts, two lunches, and two dinners during your stay. The meals are all made from western or intercontinental cuisine.

Benefits

Reasonably priced.

Excellent location for game drives

Comfortable rooms with air-conditioning

WIFI at the main lobby and at the restaurant

Drawbacks

The lodge is a 45 mins drive from the Paraa jetty, where the boat safari begins and ends.

Rooms lack a coffee or tea bar and Hair dryer.

The linen is comfortable but not plush

Note: If there are no rooms available at the time of your booking, we will recommend a suitable replacement.

What is the price?

Pax123456
Price per person$1,141$763$685$647$624$608

Prices are based on double room occupancy. You can upgrade to a single room for $146 per person.

The Basic Plan

Choice of Accommodation: Red Chili Rest Camp

Red Chilli Rest Camp is a low-budget camp located in the center of the park on the southern side of the Nile, only 500 meters from the ferry crossing point. You stay in brick and motor, African thatched houses locally known as bandas.

The camp also has a restaurant that offers an a la carte breakfast and lunch menu, and a choice of 3 set meals for dinner. The combination of a great location and a right level of comfort makes Red Chilli Rest Camp the ideal budget accommodation for your 3 Days Murchison Falls Safari.

Room description:

The bandas all include a double bed or two twin beds with linen and a mosquito net. A few bandas have private bathrooms, but most uses shared bathrooms. All the bandas have lighting, power plugs, and a fan. There’s a limited number of Ensuite bandas. The camp has shared toilets and bathroom stalls with hot water available.

Meals:

The basic plan includes breakfast. You can buy lunch and dinner every day at the restaurant.

Benefits

It’s inexpensive and safe.

Drawbacks

Even though Red Chilli Rest Camp’s location is better than other budget accommodations, it’s not the best for game viewing. It takes about 30 minutes, including crossing the Nile on a ferry to get to the wildlife. The ferry has set crossing times, and these can limit the amount of time you spend viewing the animals. All the other low-budget camps have the same challenge. None is close to the wildlife.

Electricity is only available at set times of the day, except lights are always on. The set times are from 7 am to 9 am, 11 am to 2 pm, and 5 pm to 10 pm. Outside these hours, guests charge appliances such as phones and camera batteries at the restaurant.

No WIFI

Note: If there are no rooms available at the time of your booking, we will recommend a suitable replacement.

Price Scale

Pax123456
Price per person$918$597$520$481$458$442

Prices are based on double room occupancy. You can upgrade to a single room for $89 per person.