Safari Activities in Murchison Falls National Park
Game Drives
The northern sector of the park offers expansive savannah plains and is the best area for traditional game drives. Guided game drives along routes such as the Victoria Track, Pakuba Track, and Albert Track offer excellent opportunities to spot a wide variety of wildlife.
Expect to encounter:
Towering Rothschild’s giraffes
Herds of elephants, buffaloes, and antelopes
Predators such as lions and, occasionally, leopards
Smaller species like reedbucks, oribis, and warthogs
Morning and evening drives are especially rewarding, offering golden light for photography and increased chances of seeing predators.
Boat Cruises on the Nile
A launch cruise along the Nile provides a different yet equally captivating wildlife experience. The upstream boat cruise from Paraa to the base of the falls is the most popular, lasting about 2–3 hours.
Highlights include:
Close-up views of hippos, crocodiles, and elephants
Vibrant birdlife along the riverbanks
A dramatic view of Murchison Falls from below
For birders and Shoebill seekers, a downstream boat trip to the Nile Delta in the early morning is recommended. Evening sundowner cruises offer a peaceful atmosphere and magnificent sunset views reflected on the Nile.
Hike to the Top of the Falls
The Top of the Falls hike is a must-do for adventure seekers. This guided walk takes you through scenic woodland trails, ending with panoramic views of the Nile surging through a narrow gorge.
Engage all your senses:
See the crashing waves of whitewater
Hear the thunderous roar of the falls
Feel the ground tremble beneath your feet
Taste the cool mist on your face
This hike is both thrilling and meditative—a perfect complement to game drives.
Birdwatching
Birders will find Murchison Falls to be a paradise, offering sightings of:
The elusive Shoebill stork (best seen from January to March)
Abyssinian Ground Hornbill
Secretary Bird (often seen in dry months)
Various bee-eaters, kingfishers, weavers, and seasonal migrants
Birding is excellent both on game drives and during boat trips or forest walks.
Nature Walks & Forest Hikes
Explore the park on foot with guided nature walks in areas like:
Kaniyo Pabidi Forest and Rabongo Forest – ideal for spotting primates and birds
Nile Delta Walks – a 3–4 hour walk offering chances of Shoebill sightings
Short treks near lodges and river junctions on both banks
These walks typically last 2–3 hours and are a peaceful way to experience the park’s biodiversity.
Cultural Encounters
The nearby Mubako Village offers authentic cultural experiences. Guests can interact with local communities, explore traditional homesteads, and enjoy captivating evening performances of music, dance, and storytelling around the campfire—offered by cultural groups near several lodges.
Bush Camping and Night Safaris
For a deeper connection with the wild, bush camping is available in designated areas. Campers can experience:
The sounds of wildlife under starlit skies
Night game drives to spot nocturnal creatures like leopards, genets, and hyenas
Campfire storytelling under the African night
