Murchison Falls

The Murchison Falls National Park, in the north-west of Uganda, is Uganda’s largest wildlife park. Here, the Nile River plunges off the edge of the Western Rift escarpment into a pool 43 metres below. And you can take a birding and game viewing cruise to the very foot of the waterfall to view this dramatic sight. A classic highlight on any Uganda safari!

Elsewhere its borassus forest and savanna are home to elephant, buffalo, lion and leopard, as well as chimpanzees. Plus a healthy population of hippo and huge crocodiles lurk in the reeds of the River Nile. And of course the river naturally draws many game and bird species to quench their thirst.

Birding in Murchison Falls National Park

Birding safaris are a delight in the Murchison Falls National Park. Common sightings include Fish eagle, goliath heron, Egyptian geese, pelican, bee-eaters, kingfishers, hornbill and cormorant. So a downstream boat trip is a highlight for the avid birdwatcher.

Activities at Murchison Falls

Enjoy walking trails up the cliffs above the Murchison Falls to enjoy a superb aerial view over the Nile River. Or you can head down into the ‘Devil’s Cauldron’ at the foot of the Falls.

But one of the best activities is the above-mentioned cruise below the Murchison Falls. Here the surging mass of water turns into a placid body of water which flows gently toward Lake Albert. And it’s a birding hotspot with ample chance to see African fish eagles, Great Egrets, Goliath herons and the rare Shoebill stork.

Chimpanzees of the Budongo Forest Reserve

The Budongo Falls reserve is a continuation of the Kaniyo Pabidi Forest. which is part of the Murchison Falls Conservation Area. It includes a huge Mahogany and Ironwood forest area. So this is the perfect habitat for over 600 chimpanzees. As well as eight other primate species. Many can be seen from some of the 115 km of trails running through this pristine forest.