Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda’s largest and oldest park established in 1952, covers around 3,893 square kilometers (1,503 square miles) in northwestern Uganda. The park straddles the Victoria Nile and is famous for the spectacular Murchison Falls, where the Nile forces its way through a narrow gorge and plunges 43 meters (141 feet) into the turbulent Devil’s Cauldron below, creating a stunning natural spectacle.
Murchison Falls National Park, located in northwestern Uganda, covers 3,893 square kilometers (1,503 square miles). The park stretches along the Victoria Nile and is named for the spectacular Murchison Falls, where the river is forced through a narrow gorge, creating a powerful and dramatic cascade.
The park’s landscape is a rich tapestry of savannah grasslands, riverine forests, swamps, and woodlands. This diverse mix of habitats supports a wide range of wildlife and provides visitors with breathtaking and varied scenery to explore.
Murchison Falls National Park is home to iconic wildlife including elephants, lions, giraffes, buffaloes, and leopards. The Victoria Nile teems with hippos, crocodiles, and a rich variety of aquatic birds, among them the rare and elusive shoebill stork. With over 450 bird species recorded, the park is truly a paradise for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts alike.
Visitors to Murchison Falls National Park can enjoy thrilling boat cruises along the Victoria Nile, offering spectacular close-up views of the falls and abundant wildlife along the riverbanks. Exciting game drives across the vast savannah allow for sightings of the park’s diverse animals. Birdwatching excursions, guided nature walks, and fishing add to the variety of experiences available, ensuring every adventurer finds something memorable in this remarkable park.
Murchison Falls National Park is conveniently accessible by road from Kampala, with a drive of about 5 to 6 hours. For quicker access, domestic flights operate to Pakuba and Bugungu airstrips, both situated within the park, providing easy entry for visitors eager to explore this stunning destination.
In conclusion, Murchison Falls National Park combines breathtaking landscapes, rich wildlife diversity, and exciting adventure opportunities. It stands out as a premier destination for travelers looking to experience an unforgettable safari in Uganda.