Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda's biggest national park

Murchison Falls National Park in Uganda is the largest wildlife reserve in the country. Located in north-west, Masindi, it is composed of woodland, wetland, Savannah as well as the tropical forest that is well known to be a habitant for different bird species and mammals. Among the mammals are the “big five”. Buffaloes, elephants, lions, leopards are best to be seen in the northern part (above the Nile). Rhinos are bred in the rhino sanctuary south of the park, others include the hippopotamuses, Rothschild’s giraffe, warthog, Uganda kob, Jackson’s hartebeest, hyenas though not seen as often, primates, and other rain-forest creatures.

Murchison Falls is the main attraction of the park with roaring sounds of the Nile which gives the best view on the top (Devil’s Cauldron) of the water fall with crocodiles and hippos at the river banks.

Game Drives through the park to spot different bird species and mammals which usually takes place in the morning. However, the best time for the game drive is in the dry seasons where plenty of game can be seen hot air ballooning activities are available within the park for those that want an aerial wildlife viewing experience.

Boat cruise which takes one to a point where the river Nile joins Lake Albert to the bottom of the falls, along the way different sights of water birds like Fish eagles, ducks, Kingfishers, bee-eaters, not to forget fishing is also available along for those interested.

Bird watching for different bird species like Vitelline Masked Weaver, Silver Bird, Bluff-bellied Warbler, Blue-napped Mouse bird, Chestnut-crowned Sparrow-weaver Black-headed Gonolek, Green-winged Ptyilia, and Black-headed Batis, this is the best site for the localised White-rumped Seed-eater, nocturnal Species in include; Verreaux’s owls, Nightjars such as long tailed and Pennat-winged nightjar.

Nature walks at the top of the falls to track chimpanzees, the Red-tailed monkeys, Black & white coloured monkeys.

Cultural experience Boomu Village is a great place for a family on safari where one can learn how to make traditional craft and even stay overnight in a traditional African Banda.

There are variety of lodges both inside and outside of the park – from budget to 5-star luxury lodging. Camping is allowed in selected locations.

Murchison Falls Park is located 305 kilometres north of Kampala in Masindi District and can be accessed by road where a 4WD is recommended or flights.