Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda

Why visit Murchison Falls National Park

Murchison Falls National Park is worth visiting for its rare combination of dramatic scenery and classic safari wildlife. The Nile is forced through a narrow gorge before dropping into a powerful waterfall, creating one of the most striking river landscapes in East Africa.

Beyond the falls, the park opens into wide savannah where elephants, giraffes, lions and buffalo roam freely. Boat safaris along the Nile add another perspective, with hippos, crocodiles and rich birdlife along the riverbanks.

Did you know?

In Murchison Falls National Park, it’s possible to spot four of the Big Five in a single game drive, while the Nile below is home to one of Africa’s largest populations of Nile crocodiles and hippos.

The 'Devil's Cauldron'

At Murchison Falls National Park, the Devil’s Cauldron is the churning pool at the base of the falls where the entire Nile is forced through a narrow gap and crashes down with such force that the water never settles, creating a constant roar and mist-filled basin.

Highlights of Murchison Falls National Park

Remarkable Wildlife: Murchison Falls National Park is home to elephants, giraffes, lions, buffalo, hippos and crocodiles, with game drives offering frequent sightings across the savannah.
Africa’s most powerful Waterfall: The Nile is forced through a narrow gorge before plunging into Murchison Falls, creating a dramatic cascade. Visit the top of the falls for wide views, short walks and memorable sundowners overlooking the rushing water.
Nile Boat Cruises: Boat trips along the Nile reveal hippos, crocodiles and elephants on the riverbanks, along with a wide variety of birdlife.
Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary: Located en route to the park, this sanctuary is the only place in Uganda where visitors can see rhinos in the wild as part of an ongoing conservation programme.
Budongo Forest: This rich rainforest near the park is known for chimpanzee trekking and its large mahogany trees, as well as diverse primate and bird species.
Nile Delta: Where the Nile meets Lake Albert, the delta forms a calm wetland area popular for boat safaris and birdwatching, including sightings of rare species such as the shoebill.

When to go