How To Spend 7 days In Murchison falls National Park

How to Spend 7 Days in Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda

Murchison Falls National Park, located in the northern part of Uganda, offers a captivating and diverse experience for wildlife enthusiasts. Spending 7 days in this magnificent park allows you to immerse yourself fully in the beauty of the Kew Gardens and zoo combined, as famously described by Winston Churchill. With the majestic River Nile flowing through the park, you’ll witness a plethora of aquatic animals, abundant birdlife, and a cool breeze that adds to the charm of this remarkable destination. Here is a detailed itinerary for your 7-day safari in Murchison Falls National Park:

Day 1: Drive to Murchison Falls National Park (Visit Ziiwa Rhino Sanctuary)

Embark on a road trip from Kampala to Murchison Falls National Park, which takes approximately 5 hours and 40 minutes. Along the way, make a stop at the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, where you can support the Rhino rehabilitation program in Uganda. The sanctuary plays a crucial role in restoring the rhino population that was once decimated during Uganda’s civil wars and poaching incidents.

Check into your preferred lodge within the park, ranging from budget to luxury accommodations like Paara Safari Lodge, Murchison River Lodge, Sambiya Lodge, Heritage Safari Lodge, Amuka Safari Lodge, and Bwana Tembo Safari Camp.

Day 2: Game Drive and Launch Trip

Start the day with an early morning game drive on the Northern bank of the park. This open savannah is a prime location to spot snickering predators such as lions, hyenas, leopards, and jackals. Watch as herbivores like Uganda kobs, hartebeests, and waterbucks graze in the grasslands, and keep an eye out for a diverse array of bird species, including black-bellied bustards, silver birds, yellow-headed tinkerbirds, and the iconic shoebill.

In the afternoon, embark on a thrilling launch trip on the River Nile. Two launch trips depart daily from the pier at 9:00 AM and 2:00 PM. The journey lasts about 3 hours and offers opportunities to see massive Nile crocodiles basking in the sun, herds of elephants drinking and bathing by the river, and schools of hippos floating in the water. As the boat approaches the magnificent Murchison Falls, you’ll feel the water turbulence increase and witness the foamy appearance before the river crashes through the narrow gorge. On sunny days, a rainbow may form, creating a truly enchanting sight.

Day 3: Game Drive and Visit the Top of the Falls

Experience another exhilarating game drive on the Northern bank, with the chance to encounter giraffes, lions, leopards, oribi, herds of elephants, Topis, hartebeests, hyenas, wild dogs, and various bird species. After the game drive, take a hike to the top of the falls for a breathtaking view of the mighty Victoria Nile as it roars and tumbles through the narrow gorge. Be sure to capture the stunning scenery and the impressive force of nature with your camera. Please exercise caution, especially if you’re afraid of heights, as the viewpoint is perched on a high cliff.

Day 4: Chimpanzee Trekking in Kaniyo Pabidi Forest

Head to Kaniyo Pabidi Forest, an important part of Murchison Falls National Park, for an unforgettable chimpanzee trekking experience. Chimpanzees, with about 98% human DNA, are our closest relatives in the animal kingdom. Follow the guidance of the ranger guide and adhere to trekking rules to protect the chimps and maintain their wild behavior. While trekking, you may also encounter other enchanting primates like black and white colobus monkeys, olive baboons, grey-cheeked mangabey, vervet monkeys, and red-tailed monkeys. Bird enthusiasts will be thrilled by the rich birdlife, which includes the secretary bird, Abyssinian hornbill, Malachite Kingfisher, red-throated bee-eaters, and more.

Day 5: Nature Walk in Rabongo Forest

Embark on a nature walk in the tropical Rabongo Forest, a favorite spot for walking safaris in Murchison Falls National Park. The forest is a haven for various bird species, and you can expect to see different birds searching for food and building nests. The forest is also home to diverse tree species, some of which are believed to possess medicinal properties. Keep an eye out for giraffes, elephants, Uganda Kobs, olive baboons, black and white colobus monkeys, and red-tailed monkeys during your walk. The forest is also teeming with beautiful butterflies, especially during their breeding season.

Day 6: Community Visit or Sport Fishing

Take the opportunity to visit local communities outside the park boundaries and gain insight into the daily life of the Acholi people. Listen to their folk tales, learn about their origins, and enjoy performances by local dance groups showcasing traditional music and dance. You may also encounter remnants of the Kony War of the 1990s, a devastating civil conflict that left many locals physically handicapped or earless. Witness the resilience of the community as they strive to rebuild their lives.

Alternatively, indulge in sport fishing on the River Nile, a thrilling activity that requires prior booking and additional costs. Anglers have a chance to catch large Nile perch, tilapia, catfish, and mudfish. Each angler is responsible for bringing their own fishing lure, and advance booking is essential due to designated fishing points and limitations. A fishing permit and a private boat with a captain are also arranged in advance.

Day 7: Departure

After a remarkable 7-day safari in Murchison Falls National Park, return to Entebbe Airport for your departure flight.

How to Get to Murchison Falls National Park

Murchison Falls National Park is accessible by road from Kampala, with the journey taking approximately 5 hours and 40 minutes. Scheduled flights are available from Entebbe or Kajjansi airstrip to Bugungu or Pakuba Air Strip, and charter flights can be arranged in advance.

To ensure an efficient crossing from the northern bank area (Paraa Lodge) to the southern bank, an hourly vehicle ferry service is available.

What to Pack for a Safari in Murchison Falls National Park

• Light and comfortable clothing, especially during the dry season (June to September).
• Earth-toned clothes to blend with the surroundings and avoid alarming wildlife.
• Camera and extra batteries to capture unforgettable moments.
• Binoculars for a closer view of wildlife from a distance.
• Insect repellent for protection against stinging insects during jungle activities.

Best Time for a 7-Day Safari in Murchison Falls National Park

While Murchison Falls National Park is open year-round, the drier months of June to September offer better wildlife viewing opportunities. During the wet season (March to May), you may spot more newborn animals, but game trails may be muddier and less crowded. The shoulder season (March to May) presents fewer visitors and competition for prime viewing spots, making it an appealing time for a safari.

To plan your unforgettable 7-day adventure in Murchison Falls National Park, contact Trek Africa Expeditions for expert guidance and personalized itineraries. Check our TripAdvisor page for the