Murchison Falls National Park is one of Uganda's largest and oldest national parks, covering an area of about 3,840 square kilometers. It is located in the northwestern part of the country, straddling the districts of Nwoya, Buliisa, Kiryandongo, and Masindi. The park is named after the breathtaking Murchison Falls, where the Nile River, the longest river in the world, is forced through a narrow gorge and plunges about 43 meters into the Victoria Nile.
The park's namesake waterfall is undoubtedly its most iconic feature. Visitors can witness the dramatic sight of the Nile River squeezing through a narrow gorge before plummeting into a pool below. Boat cruises and hikes to the top of the falls offer spectacular views and photo opportunities. Murchison Falls National Park is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including four of the Big Five (elephants, lions, leopards, and buffaloes). Other commonly sighted animals include giraffes, antelopes, hippos, crocodiles, and various species of monkeys and birds. Game drives and boat safaris along the Nile River provide excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing.
: Murchison Falls National Park is a paradise for bird enthusiasts, with over 450 bird species recorded within its boundaries. Key birding areas include the delta region, Budongo Forest, and the banks of the Nile River. The park is home to rare species such as the shoebill stork and the Abyssinian ground hornbill.Part of the larger Murchison Falls Conservation Area, Budongo Forest Reserve is a prime destination for chimpanzee tracking and bird watching.
Get a taste of nature