This is Uganda’s largest protected area situated north of Masindi District and spanning the Victoria Nile. The park is named after the dramatic Murchison falls, where the River Nile explodes violently through a narrow 7m gap to fall a distance of 47m. The River Nile is the world’s longest river which cuts a grove through the Murchison Falls National park.
The park covers an area of 3840 square kilometres with a variety of vegetation raging from riparian forests, swamp, to broad savannah.
Wildlife
The parks wildlife species attractions includes Rothchild’s giraffes, Lions, Buffalos, Uganda Kob, Elephant, Warthogs and an abundance of birds. These provide opportunity for ecellent game drive viewing. The main game viewing area is the peninsular between the Victoria and Albert Nile on the north bank of the river.
Budongo Forest
This forest administered by the National Forestry Authority is to be part found within the parks protected area and is habitat to chimpanzees, monkeys, baboons and some very special forest bird species. Chimpanzee tracking, bird watching and nature walks are all popular activities that can be undertaken at the Kanyio Pabidi Ecotourism centre close to the main entrance Kichumbanyumbo gate when approaching from Masindi.
The Victoria Nile
One of the most exciting activities at Murchison Falls is a 14km launch trip from Paraa to the base of the falls and back. Many water bird species, hippo, and crocodiles can all be viewed from the launch trip.
Accommodation
A plethora of accommodation is to be found along the river close to Paraa and also on the Sambiya river. Within the Budngo Forest accommodation is also available at Kanyio Pabidi. These include:
- Paraa Lodge
- Nile Safari Camp
- Sambiya River Lodge
- Red Chilli Rest Camp
- Kanyio Pabidi Ecotourism Site
Activities
- Game driving/ viewing
- Bird watching
- Launch trip
- Nature walks
- Chimpanzee tracking
Access
From Kampala via Masindi is about 5-6 hours to Paraa. A 4WD vehicle is recommendedD vehicle is required.