Murchison Falls NP

Located on the western side of Uganda just north of the midway part of the country. The park covers an area of 1,503 square miles (3,893 sq km) creating the largest national park in Uganda.

The national park is part of the larger Murchison Falls Conservation Area which includes Bugungu Wildlife Reserve and Karuma Wildlife Reserve creating over 2,072 square miles (5,366 sq km) of protected wilderness.

All About Me

Murchison Falls National Park is one of Uganda's most iconic and largest national parks, spanning approximately 3,840 square kilometers (1,480 square miles) in the northwestern part of the country. Named after the awe-inspiring Murchison Falls, this park is celebrated for its diverse wildlife, stunning landscapes, and dramatic waterfall. Here's a description of Murchison Falls National Park:

Murchison Falls: The park is named after the spectacular Murchison Falls, where the Nile River, the world's longest river, is forced through a narrow gap in the Rift Valley escarpment, plunging over a 40-meter (131-foot) drop. The result is a thunderous, foaming cascade that is both breathtaking and mesmerizing. Boat safaris and viewpoints provide excellent opportunities to witness the falls' power and beauty up close.
Wildlife: Murchison Falls National Park is renowned for its diverse wildlife population. The park is home to the Big Five, including elephants, lions, leopards, buffalo, and rhinoceros (though the rhino population is relatively small and protected). Additionally, you can spot a wide variety of other animals such as giraffes, hippos, crocodiles, antelopes, and numerous bird species. The Nile River itself is teeming with aquatic life.
Game Drives: Game drives in Murchison Falls National Park offer an incredible opportunity to explore its diverse ecosystems. The park's savannah grasslands, woodlands, and riverine areas provide a varied landscape for wildlife viewing. Game drives are typically conducted in the northern sector, known as the Paraa region, and you can expect to see herds of elephants, giraffes, buffaloes, and more.
Boat Safaris: A boat safari along the Nile River is a must-do activity in the park. It allows you to get close to hippos, crocodiles, and an abundance of waterbirds. The boat trip to the base of Murchison Falls is particularly thrilling as it provides a unique perspective of the falls and the surrounding wildlife.
Bird Watching: Murchison Falls National Park is a birdwatcher's paradise with over 450 bird species. The diverse habitats, including the riverbanks, wetlands, and woodlands, attract a wide range of avian species, including the elusive Shoebill stork, Goliath heron, and African fish eagle.
Scenic Landscapes: Beyond the falls, the park features diverse landscapes, including rolling savannah plains, lush riverbanks, dense woodlands, and tranquil delta areas. These landscapes offer stunning vistas and make for excellent photography opportunities.
Chimpanzee Tracking: In the Budongo Forest Reserve, which is part of the park, you can embark on chimpanzee tracking expeditions. This lush forest is home to a significant population of chimpanzees, offering a chance to observe these primates in their natural habitat.
Accommodations: Murchison Falls National Park offers a range of accommodation options, from luxury lodges to campsites. The lodges are strategically located to provide visitors with a comfortable and scenic base for exploring the park.

Murchison Falls National Park is not only a wildlife enthusiast's dream but also a place of extraordinary natural beauty and adventure. Whether you're on a game drive, a boat safari, or simply soaking in the breathtaking views of the falls, this park provides an unforgettable and immersive African safari experience.

Resources:

Uganda Wildlife Authority: https://ugandawildlife.org/national-parks/murchison-falls-national-park/