Things to Do in Murchison Falls National Park

Murchison Falls National Park sprawls across 3,840 square kilometers of northern Uganda, where the Victoria Nile dramatically squeezes through a narrow 7-meter gorge before thundering 43 meters down into the river below. The park actually represents Uganda's largest protected area, encompassing a remarkable diversity of landscapes from dense woodland and grassland savanna to the papyrus-lined banks of the Albert Nile. What makes this place genuinely special is how it combines that iconic waterfall with some of East Africa's most reliable wildlife viewing - you'll find yourself watching elephants, giraffes, and hippos against a backdrop that feels almost primordial. The park tends to surprise visitors with its sheer abundance of life, from the 450 bird species that call it home to the healthy populations of lions, leopards, and buffalo that roam its plains.

Dining options are primarily lodge-based, with most accommodations offering full-board packages that include hearty buffet meals featuring both international and Ugandan cuisine. Paraa Safari Lodge has the most upscale restaurant with decent wine selection, while the mid-range lodges typically serve simple but satisfying fare. If you're camping or staying at budget accommodations, you'll want to bring supplies from Masindi town, which has several supermarkets and local markets where you can stock up on essentials and fresh produce.

The dry seasons from December to February and June to September offer the most comfortable weather and best wildlife viewing, as animals concentrate around water sources and roads are more accessible. That said, the wet seasons bring lush scenery and excellent birdwatching, with migratory species adding to the park's impressive bird list. The falls themselves are most dramatic during and just after the rains when water levels are highest, though boat trips might occasionally be affected by very high water.