What to see in Murchison Falls National Park. Murchison Falls National Park is a crown jewel of Uganda’s protected areas. Covering over 3,800 square kilometers, this vast wilderness is home to the legendary Murchison Falls, where the Nile River dramatically crashes through a narrow 7-meter gorge before plunging 43 meters into the “Devil’s Cauldron.” From thundering waterfalls and wide savannahs to dense forests and incredible wildlife, Murchison Falls National Park offers something for every nature enthusiast. Here’s a complete guide to what to see in this incredible destination.
The Iconic Murchison Falls
The park’s most famous feature is the Murchison Falls themselves. This natural spectacle is where the mighty Nile River is squeezed through a small cleft in the rock, creating a thunderous roar and mist that rises high into the air. The view from the Top of the Falls is breathtaking—you can walk along marked trails to witness the river’s power up close. For a different perspective, a boat cruise to the base of the falls offers an equally thrilling experience. From below, the scale and energy of the falls are even more impressive.
Wildlife on Game Drives
Murchison Falls National Park is rich in wildlife. Game drives in the northern sector of the park offer great opportunities to see a variety of animals. Expect to spot:
- African elephants
- Rothschild’s giraffes (a rare subspecies found only in this region)
- Cape buffalo
- Lions
- Leopards
- Uganda kob
- Jackson’s hartebeest
- Warthogs
- Oribi
Game drives are typically conducted in the early morning or late afternoon when animals are most active. The open savannah landscapes, dotted with acacia trees, provide excellent visibility for wildlife viewing.
Nile River Boat Safaris
The Nile River is the lifeline of the park, and exploring it by boat is one of the most memorable experiences. Two types of boat cruises are offered:
- Cruise to the base of Murchison Falls: Along the way, you’ll see hippos lounging in the water, massive Nile crocodiles on the riverbanks, elephants bathing, and countless birds.
- Cruise to the Nile Delta: This lesser-known route heads downstream toward Lake Albert and is particularly popular with birdwatchers hoping to spot the elusive shoebill stork.
Birdwatching Paradise
Birdwatching in Murchison Falls National Park is a delight, with over 450 species recorded. Some of the park’s star birds include:
- Shoebill stork
- Goliath heron
- Grey crowned crane
- African fish eagle
- Abyssinian ground hornbill
- Kingfishers
- Secretary bird
The combination of riverine, savannah, and forest habitats makes the park a haven for both waterbirds and forest species.
Chimpanzee Tracking in Budongo Forest
In the southern sector of the park lies Budongo Forest, a rich tropical forest famous for its population of chimpanzees. Guided chimpanzee tracking is available here and provides a chance to observe these intelligent primates in their natural environment. The walk through the forest is also an opportunity to see other primates like red-tailed monkeys, blue monkeys, and olive baboons, along with a variety of butterflies and tree species.
Guided Nature Walks
If you want to experience the bush on foot, several guided nature walks are available. These are led by experienced rangers and offer a more intimate view of the park’s flora and fauna. You’ll learn about animal tracks, birds, insects, and medicinal plants. Some trails are found in Rabongo and Kaniyo Pabidi forests, both offering a tranquil contrast to the open savannah.
Sport Fishing on the Nile
Murchison Falls is one of the best spots for sport fishing in East Africa. The Nile River offers the chance to catch large Nile perch, some weighing over 80 kilograms. Other species include catfish and tiger fish. Fishing takes place near the base of the falls and is strictly catch-and-release, conducted with the assistance of experienced guides.
