Where is Murchison Falls National Park Located?

When planning an unforgettable Uganda Safari, many travelers ask, “Where is Murchison Falls National Park located?” This iconic destination lies in northwestern Uganda, spanning across four districts—Masindi, Kiryandongo, Nwoya, and Buliisa. As Uganda’s largest and oldest conservation area, Murchison Falls National Park covers approximately 3,840 square kilometers and is bisected by the great River Nile. This strategic location makes it a must-visit for anyone seeking adventure, wildlife, scenic landscapes, and cultural richness.

 

The Geographical Marvel of Murchison Falls National Park

A Location of Natural Splendor

So, where is Murchison Falls National Park located geographically? The park is situated within the northern section of the Albertine Rift Valley, where the sweeping Bunyoro escarpment meets vast savannah plains. The mighty Nile River flows through the park from east to west, dramatically plunging through a narrow gorge only 7 meters wide, creating the thunderous Murchison Falls—the park’s breathtaking namesake and central attraction.

Accessibility from Major Cities

The park is about 305 kilometers from Kampala, Uganda’s capital city. This distance makes it ideal for road trips and excursions. Whether you’re traveling from Kampala, Entebbe, or Gulu, the route to the park is scenic and dotted with cultural stops that enhance your journey.

Why the Location Matters

Being located in such a diverse ecological region, the park boasts multiple habitats—from lush rainforests to open grasslands and wetlands—supporting a wide range of flora and fauna. This diverse landscape is integral to what makes Murchison Falls National Park not only accessible but exceptionally rewarding.

 

Wildlife Encounters: Animals in Murchison Falls National Park

Unmatched Biodiversity

Now that we’ve addressed where Murchison Falls National Park is located, it’s important to understand why this location is a haven for wildlife. The park hosts over 76 species of mammals and more than 450 species of birds, making it one of Uganda’s top safari destinations.

Game Drives in Murchison Falls

Among the most popular activities are the Game Drives in Murchison Falls, especially in the Buligi Peninsula, where sightings of lions, elephants, giraffes, leopards, and buffaloes are common. Tourists often start early in the morning or late in the afternoon for the best wildlife encounters.

Birdwatching and River Cruises

Bird enthusiasts will find paradise here, spotting species like the shoebill stork, African fish eagle, and Goliath heron. Boat cruises along the Nile also reveal crocodiles, hippos, and other animals in Murchison Falls, all against the backdrop of the roaring waterfall.

 

Hiking Adventures: Hike to the Top of Murchison Falls

A Highlight for Adventure Seekers

A key activity that answers the question “Where is Murchison Falls National Park located?” with an experiential twist is the Hike to the Top of Murchison Falls. This hike begins from the boat landing at the base and ascends steeply to the top of the falls, offering panoramic views of the park and the Nile as it explodes through the rock gorge.

Photographic Opportunities

This hike offers one of the most spectacular vantage points in Uganda. From the summit, you can feel the power of the falls and capture incredible images of the cascading water and surrounding landscapes.

Why the Hike is Unmissable

The hike not only provides a closer look at the iconic falls but also connects you to the essence of the park’s location—where geology, water, and wilderness meet in dramatic fashion.

 

Forest Exploration: Chimpanzee Tracking in Budongo Forest

Location of Budongo Forest

Still wondering where is Murchison Falls National Park located in terms of forests? The park’s southern section houses Budongo Forest, a primeval rainforest rich in biodiversity and home to over 800 chimpanzees.

The Chimpanzee Tracking Experience

Chimpanzee Tracking in Budongo is guided by expert trackers who lead you through dense vegetation in search of habituated families. Observing chimps in their natural habitat is both thrilling and educational.

Biodiversity Beyond Chimps

In addition to chimpanzees, Budongo Forest is a haven for colobus monkeys, baboons, birds, and butterflies. The forest’s location within the park offers an essential contrast to the open savannah, further enriching the Murchison Falls experience.

 

Cultural Connections: Mubaku Village Experiences

Cultural Insight Close to the Park

If you’re seeking local culture near where Murchison Falls National Park is located, a visit to Mubaku Village is essential. Located just outside the park’s northern gate, Mubaku offers rich cultural experiences through music, dance, and storytelling.

Community Tourism and Craftsmanship

The village thrives on community-based tourism. Tourists can watch traditional dances, participate in drumming workshops, and purchase handcrafted souvenirs. These experiences allow travelers to connect with Uganda’s cultural fabric.

Why Mubaku Village is Important

Mubaku provides a cultural complement to the park’s natural beauty, adding depth to your visit and showcasing the diversity of people who live near where Murchison Falls National Park is located.

 

Where to Stay: Savannah Murchison Lodge in Mubaku Village

Savannah Murchison Lodge Location

One of the most convenient and affordable places to stay near the park is Savannah Murchison Lodge in Mubaku Village. Just minutes from Tangi Gate, this lodge offers sweeping views of the Nile and easy access to all park activities.

Accommodation at Savannah Murchison Lodge

The lodge features a range of options including safari tents and thatched cottages. Accommodation at Savannah Murchison Lodge is designed to cater to various budgets, making it a strong contender for the cheapest accommodation in Murchison Falls that still delivers on quality and comfort.

Cultural Immersion and Local Cuisine

Guests enjoy not only scenic surroundings but also cultural immersion through evening performances and meals prepared with local ingredients. Staying here bridges the wild experience with the warmth of Ugandan hospitality.

 

Travel Tips: How to Get to Savannah Murchison Lodge

Driving Directions and Road Access

If you’re wondering how to get to Savannah Murchison Lodge, there are several convenient routes. From Kampala, the lodge is about a 5–6-hour drive via Masindi town and Kichumbanyobo Gate or through Tangi Gate from Pakwach.

Flying to the Park

For those preferring air travel, domestic flights to Pakuba Airstrip are available. The lodge can arrange transfers, ensuring smooth access for all types of travelers.

Savannah Murchison Lodge Rates

A major benefit is the affordability of Savannah Murchison Lodge Rates, which cater to both luxury and budget travelers. Packages often include meals, park transfers, and guided activities, offering great value for a Uganda Wildlife Safari.

 

Uganda Wildlife Safari: Complete the Experience

Why Murchison Falls is Central to Uganda Safaris

No Uganda Safari is complete without a visit to Murchison Falls. Its central location in the northwestern part of the country connects it easily with other tourist destinations like Kibale, Queen Elizabeth, and Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary.

Diverse Safari Activities

From Game Drives in Murchison Falls to Chimpanzee Tracking and cultural visits to Mubaku Village, the park offers a well-rounded safari experience. The variety of activities makes it a top choice for solo travelers, families, and wildlife photographers alike.

Ideal for All Budgets

Whether you’re looking for the cheapest accommodation in Murchison Falls or a luxury escape, the park’s offerings make it accessible to all. And that accessibility is a major factor in understanding where Murchison Falls National Park is located—at the very heart of Uganda’s natural beauty.

 

Final Thoughts: Why You Should Visit Murchison Falls

To answer the question “Where is Murchison Falls National Park located?”—it’s in the northwestern region of Uganda, but more importantly, it lies at the center of unforgettable adventures, awe-inspiring nature, and rich cultural exchanges. Whether you’re hiking to the top of the falls, enjoying game drives, tracking chimps in Budongo Forest, or relaxing at Savannah Murchison Lodge in Mubaku Village, you’ll understand why this location is cherished worldwide.

Article by Kazinga Channel Ventures