Murchison Falls National Park

Overview

Murchison Falls National Park is Uganda's largest national park, known for its breathtaking Murchison Falls where the Nile River squeezes through a narrow gorge. The park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including elephants, lions, and hippos, and offers stunning landscapes and thrilling safari experiences.

natural

National Park Wildlife Reserve Scenic Landscape

Location

Address

Murchison Falls,P.O.Box 455, Uganda

Neighborhood: Northern Uganda

Coordinates

2.216700, 31.783300

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 6:00 AM - 8:00 PM

tuesday 6:00 AM - 8:00 PM

wednesday 6:00 AM - 8:00 PM

thursday 6:00 AM - 8:00 PM

friday 6:00 AM - 8:00 PM

saturday 6:00 AM - 8:00 PM

sunday 6:00 AM - 8:00 PM

Admission

Adults

$40

Children

$20 (ages 5-12)

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

December-February, June-July

Best Time of Day

Early morning 6-9am

better wildlife viewing, cooler temperatures

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

1 day

Recommended

2-3 days

Full Experience

5-7 days

Seasonal Highlights

spring

warm with occasional rain

• migratory birds
• lush greenery

summer

hot and dry

• wildlife viewing
• clear skies

autumn

cooler and drier

• short rains
• fewer tourists

winter

warm and dry

• peak wildlife viewing
• dry weather

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Book tours and accommodation in advance, especially during peak season
Malaria prophylaxis recommended, consult a doctor
Respect wildlife and maintain a safe distance
Carry sufficient cash as ATMs may not be available

What to Bring

essential

passport vaccination certificates insect repellent

seasonal

raincoat and waterproof gear (rainy season) warm layers (cooler months)

not allowed

drones weapons illegal substances littering

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: moderate - involves walking, driving, and boat rides

• malaria risk
• sun exposure
• wildlife encounters

Medical facilities: first aid stations at main lodges and parks

Payment Information

Accepted

cash (USD or Ugandan Shillings), credit cards (Visa, MasterCard)

Currency

Ugandan Shillings

Typical Costs

entry $40 per person per day

parking $10 per vehicle per day

food $15-30 per meal

safari $50-200 per person per day

Dress Code

neutral-colored clothing for safaris, comfortable, lightweight clothing, hats, sunglasses, sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots, bright-colored clothing, noise-making devices

Booking Tips

• 3-6 months recommended for peak season
• official Uganda Wildlife Authority website
• full refund 30 days before, 50% refund 14 days before
• private tours and guided experiences

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Uganda Wildlife App

Size: 35 MB

Features: Interactive park map, Audio guide with wildlife sounds, AR wildlife identification, Real-time safari tracking, Digital ticket storage

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Main lodges, Visitor centers, Some restaurants

Charging Stations: Lodges, Visitor centers

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Entebbe International Airport

Distance: 300 km

Travel Time: 5-6 hours

taxi

$150-200 5-6 hours

public_transport

$20-30 6-7 hours

From City Center

Distance: 50 km

taxi

$50-70 1.5-2 hours

public_transport

$10-15 2-3 hours

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: Pride in Uganda's natural beauty and wildlife

Historical Significance: Important for conservation and tourism in Uganda

Insider Tips

Best time for birdwatching is during the rainy season
Local guides know the best spots for wildlife viewing
Visit the top of Murchison Falls for a stunning view
Try the local craft beers at the lodges

Local Recommendations

• Try the local Luwombo dish at a cultural village
• Ask for guide John who has over 20 years of experience
• Visit the nearby Budongo Forest for chimpanzee trekking
• Experience a traditional Ugandan drumming and dance performance

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Mwogi

thank_you Webale

where_is Enjula nini?

how_much Biri ng'eyo?

beautiful Enjoozo

ticket Tikiti

Guide Languages: English, Swahili, French, Local Languages

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Murchison Falls

Best Time: Golden hour (6-7am or 5-6pm)

Tips: Capture the falls from the boat or the viewpoint above

Result: Stunning shots of the powerful falls and the Nile River

#MurchisonFalls #Uganda #WildlifePhotography

Paraa Ferry Crossing

Best Time: Early morning for wildlife along the river

Tips: Use the ferry as a foreground element

Result: Unique perspectives of the river and wildlife

#NileRiver #Safari #Adventure

Photography Rules

allowed areas viewpoints, boat cruises, safari drives

prohibited areas inside vehicles during safaris, restricted wildlife zones

flash photography not allowed during night game drives

commercial photography permit required

drone policy strictly prohibited without special permission

tripod policy allowed with permission, but generally not recommended due to wildlife safety

selfie sticks allowed but use with caution

Nearby Attractions

Budongo Forest

Distance: 30 km

Walking: N/A

Type: Forest Reserve

Lake Albert