Are you looking for that one wilderness destination that can reward you with irresistible wildlife experiences? Well, Murchison Falls National Park is that one splendid protected area that shouldn’t miss out in your travel plan. It is situated in northwestern Uganda and it covers an area of about 3840 square kilometers making it the most extensive protected area in the country. This park derived its name from Murchison Falls, one of the most popular waterfalls in the world and its habitat comprises of savanna grasslands, Riverine forest and woodland. Murchison Falls National Park boasts of wildlife species like elephants, leopards, lions, water-bucks, buffaloes, Uganda Kobs, chimpanzees in Budongo forest, hippos, crocodiles, giraffes, warthogs, Jackson’s hartebeests, hyenas as well as more than 450 distinct bird species.
What to do in Murchison Falls National Park?
- Game drives/viewing
When it comes to wildlife safaris in Uganda, Murchison Falls National Park is remarkably one of the most endowed parks. It inhabits variety of wildlife species that are worth catching a glimpse while you are safari in Uganda. Game drives in this park are conducted in the northern part along Queen’s and Albert tracks. While on a game drive, you will be amazed by spectacular views of elephants, buffaloes, giraffes, antelope families as well as other wildlife that thrive in the park’s extensive grassland. Usually, game drives are at times conducted together with birding and you will have a chance to spot out most of the savanna bird species, raptors and if you are keen enough, you will spot out the elusive shoebill stork when you get to Albert Nile.
- Boat cruise
A launch cruise is another most sought after safari activities by most tourists on safari in Murchison Falls National Park. It is conducted around Paraa and takes you up to the base of Murchison Falls and along the way, you will be amazed by breathtaking views of hippos, crocodiles as the relax along the river banks, water-bucks and not to forget several water birds especially bee-eaters, herons, fish eagles, kingfishers, cormorants and many more.
- Hiking to the top of Murchison Falls
This is another most rewarding adventure that you shouldn’t miss out if you are planning to visit Murchison Falls National Park this coming season. This adventure allows you to hike to the top of powerful Murchison Falls after the boat has landed. While on top of the Nile, you will be amazed by the dramatic roar at this gigantic waterfall as it squeezes itself in a narrow gorge of about 7 meters. Besides, you will also find most of the picnic sites, campsites and or embark on walking tour.
- Sport fishing
If you love sport fishing and you are planning to spend your next vacation in Uganda, don’t miss to challenge yourself with this amazing adventure in Murchison Falls National Park. This adventure is full of fun and for sharp anglers; you catch the biggest Nile perch or tiger fish. However, you are advised to come with your own gear but the boats are readily available for you to rent.
- Nature Walks
For nature lovers, this park is equally ideal for nature walks and you will opportunity to explore it in depth while on foot. While on nature walk don’t miss to catch a glimpse at several wildlife species, birds, explore most plant species and take a walk to the top of the Murchison Falls and Kaniyo Pabidi in Budongo Forest to explore more forest birds and while at this area, you can also embark on thrilling chimpanzee trekking adventure. In addition, there is Rabongo forest for you to also explore most of the primates such as red tailed monkeys, playful monkeys, black and white colobus monkeys as well as bird species, trees and plant species that are of medicinal significance.
Where to stay at Murchison Falls National Park?
While on your safari at this park, there are several accommodation options for you to make the best choice and you will have the most memorable experience in life. Among others include;
- Paraa Safari Lodge
- Masindi Hotel
- Red Chilli Rest Camp
- Court View Hotel in Masindi town
- Sambiya River Lodge
- Murchison River Lodge
- Fort Murchison Lodge
- Pakuba Safari Lodge
- Bwana Tembo Safari camp
- Nile Safari Camp
How to get to Murchison Falls National Park?
Murchison Falls National Park can be reached by road and air. By road, you will set off from Kampala/Entebbe along Masindi route through Kichumbanyobo gate and this will take you approximately 4 to 5 hours. Along the way, don’t miss to catch a glimpse at the extensive landscape in the northwest and make a stopover at the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary where you will embark on rhino tracking. 
You will then take a ferry to cross to Paraa or spend a night in the southern sector. By air, you can take a flight from Entebbe International Airport or Kajjansi Airfield and land around airfield near Pakuba where you will have 19 kilometers’ drive northwest of Paraa and Bugungu approximately 13 kilometers away from Paraa.