Murchison Falls: Nature, Wildlife, Boat Cruises

Murchison Falls Attractions – Embark on a breathtaking 4-day safari adventure at Murchison Falls, where game drives, boat safaris, invigorating hikes, and thrilling chimp trekking intertwine to craft an unforgettable and monumental experience.

Chimpanzee Tracking & Habituation Encounter

Murchison Falls National Park boasts a population of over 600 chimpanzees thriving within the mahogany tree-lined forests. Unfortunately, during the 1970s and 80s, conflict led to a drastic decline in their numbers due to civil unrest, resulting in casualties and illegal trafficking of infant chimpanzees. In 1995, researcher Vernon Reynolds initiated a conservation project in collaboration with The Jane Goodall Institute to safeguard these primates. Although initially only 50 chimpanzees were found, their population began to rebound by 2000. Now, after two decades, Murchison Falls stands as the second-best destination for chimpanzee trekking in Uganda, following Kibale Forest National Park.

For the standard chimpanzee trekking experience, your adventure begins with a 7 am rendezvous with your guide for a safety briefing. Setting off into the forests, the search for the chimps commences, typically lasting about 3 hours but potentially extending longer. Upon locating the chimpanzees, you’ll have an hour to observe their natural behaviors in their habitat.

Alternatively, the habituation experience starts earlier, meeting your guide at 6 am to track the chimpanzees while they’re still in their nests before their 6/6:30 am awakening. Throughout the day, you’ll witness their daily routines, from feeding and playful activities to patrolling their territory. Your guide will provide in-depth insights into the chimps’ behavior until they create their evening nests, signaling the end of your encounter.

At the time of writing, permits for chimpanzee trekking cost $85, while the habituation experience permits are priced at $220.

Trekking and Hiking

Visitors have the opportunity to engage in hiking adventures at Murchison Falls, including an ascent to the summit of the falls or leisurely nature walks through Kaniyo Pabidi or Rabongo forest. These designated trails offer exclusive access to explorers.

The hike to the summit of Murchison Falls commences with a scenic boat ride to ‘The Baker Point,’ an homage to the renowned British explorer Sir Samuel Baker. The guided 45-minute trek leads through undulating hills amid lush countryside, accompanied by a diverse array of birds. The resounding roar of the cascading falls grows louder with each step, enveloping you in its awe-inspiring presence.

Upon reaching the apex, a breathtaking sight unfolds—the Nile River fiercely surging through a narrow 7-meter chasm before plummeting an astounding 43 meters off the cliff’s edge, creating a mesmerizing pool below.

Following this exhilarating experience, delve into the rich tapestry of African wildlife that thrives within Murchison Falls. While trekking through Kaniyo Pabidi and Rabongo forest, expect to encounter not only chimpanzees but also olive baboons, white and black colobus monkeys, red-tailed monkeys, and blue monkeys, showcasing the incredible biodiversity of the region.

Outstanding Game Drives

Murchison Falls harbors an impressive array of wildlife, boasting 76 mammal species and 451 bird species awaiting exploration through a 3 to 4-hour game drive.

The adventure predominantly unfolds in the park’s northern region, characterized by expansive savannah grasslands. The journey commences along the Albert delta track, offering sightings of diverse water birds, buffalo herds, sunbathing crocodiles, majestic lions, and graceful giraffes.

Continuing on the Buligi Peninsula track presents an optimal setting for game viewing. The open grassland stretches alongside the Nile, providing a picturesque backdrop for encountering elephants, imposing buffalos, elusive leopards, bathing hipos, and elegant giraffes congregating near the water’s edge.

Amazing Boat Launch

At Murchison Falls, visitors can embark on two distinct boat cruises, each charting a unique course along the Nile, which slices through the park’s heart.

The Albert delta cruise, originating from Paraa, navigates downstream along the Nile, spanning a 28-kilometer journey that typically lasts 4-5 hours. The morning session offers exceptional birdwatching opportunities, notably the remarkable shoebill stork. Opt for the afternoon cruise to relish the sunset casting its golden hues over the vast grasslands, providing glimpses of diverse wildlife and water creatures along the riverbanks.

Conversely, the launch trip departs from Paraa and ventures upstream, guiding passengers towards the impressive Murchison Falls. Upon reaching the falls, witness the spectacle of water plunging through a narrow 7-meter gorge, enveloping the boat in mist. Glide past congregations of hippos and elephants enjoying the waters, savoring the captivating scenery throughout the 3-hour excursion, which inevitably feels too short.

Both cruises promise enchanting encounters with birds, wildlife, and sunbathing crocodiles adorning the riverbanks, ensuring an immersive experience amidst the tranquil waters of the Nile.

There are a number of attractions of which we have mentioned a few of them and if you would like to get more about this, you can book a safari to Murchison falls national park.