Uganda's largest and oldest park, centered on the Nile's most dramatic waterfall.
Northwestern Uganda, spanning Nwoya, Buliisa, Kiryandongo, and Masindi districts.
Size & Established: ~3,840–3,893 km² — Uganda's largest national park; originally established in 1952, making it also one of the oldest.
Terrain & Ecosystem: The Victoria Nile bisects the park into northern and southern sections, flowing through woodland savanna and riverine forest before being forced through a narrow 6–7 metre gorge and plunging roughly 43–45 metres to form Murchison Falls.
Wildlife: Around 76 mammal species including four of the Big Five (lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard — rhinos are protected separately at nearby Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary); giraffes, hippos, and Nile crocodiles; over 450 bird species, including the rare shoebill stork.
Main Activities: Game drives across the northern savanna, boat cruises to the base of the falls, hiking to the top of the falls, chimpanzee trekking in adjacent Budongo Forest, sport fishing on the Nile, birdwatching, side trips to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary.
Best Time to Visit: June to September and December to February.
Getting There: About 5–6 hours by road from Kampala (further reduced by newer "oil roads" in recent years), or by charter flight to Pakuba airstrip. Typical stay: 2–3 days.
450 species of fowl including the rare shoebill stork and many endemics, while the 76 mammals include four of the Big Five (lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard — rhinos are kept separately at Ziwa Sanctuary).
Ranger-led walks through forest or wetland habitats for close encounters with smaller wildlife, flora, and birdlife, offered in nearly every park.
Morning and evening drives through prime wildlife territory with expert spotters.
Relaxed cruises on Africa's great lakes and rivers, spotting hippos and birdlife.
R & M Wild Safaris