4-Days Murchison Falls Safari Adventure

Murchison Falls National Park, located in northwestern Uganda, is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers. Named after the dramatic Murchison Falls where the Nile River explodes through a narrow gorge and plunges down a series of cascades, the park offers a diverse range of experiences. This 4-day safari combines game drives, boat cruises, and hikes to give you a comprehensive exploration of Uganda’s largest national park. Starting with a pick-up from Entebbe, this guide provides highlights and a detailed itinerary for an unforgettable Murchison Falls safari.

Highlights

• Scenic Drive from Entebbe to Murchison Falls National Park: Travel through Uganda’s diverse landscapes.
• Game Drives: Spot the Big Five and other wildlife in their natural habitat.
• Boat Cruises on the Nile: Experience the park from the water, including a cruise to the base of Murchison Falls.
• Hike to the Top of Murchison Falls: Witness the powerful cascade from above.
• Bird Watching: Discover over 450 bird species in the park.
• Visit to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary: Observe rhinos in their natural environment.

Itinerary

Day 1: Pick-up from Entebbe and Transfer to Murchison Falls National Park

Your adventure begins with an early morning pick-up from your hotel in Entebbe or Airport. Meet your guide and start the journey north to Murchison Falls National Park. The drive, which takes approximately 6-7 hours, offers views of Uganda’s rolling hills, rural villages, and lush landscapes. You will stop for lunch en route and have an opportunity to stretch your legs.

Upon arrival at the park, you will check into your lodge and have some time to relax. In the late afternoon, embark on a brief game drive to get your first glimpse of the park’s abundant wildlife. Expect to see elephants, giraffes, buffaloes, and a variety of antelope species. Return to the lodge for dinner and overnight stay.

Day 2: Morning Game Drive and Afternoon Boat Cruise to the Base of Murchison Falls

Start your day with an early breakfast before heading out for a morning game drive. The early hours are the best time to spot predators such as lions and leopards as they are more active. Your guide will take you through the savannah, woodlands, and along the Nile Delta, where you can observe a rich diversity of wildlife. Look out for the Rothschild giraffe, Jackson’s hartebeest, Uganda kob, and oribi, among others.

Return to the lodge for lunch and some relaxation. In the afternoon, you will embark on a boat cruise to the base of Murchison Falls. This two-hour cruise along the Nile offers a different perspective of the park. You will see hippos, crocodiles, and a multitude of birds along the riverbanks. As you approach the falls, the river narrows, and the water becomes more turbulent, creating a dramatic sight. Disembark at the base and hike up to the top of the falls for a breathtaking view.

After the hike, you will be driven back to the lodge for dinner and an overnight stay.

Day 3: Delta Boat Cruise, Bird Watching, and Evening Game Drive

Enjoy a hearty breakfast before setting out on a morning boat cruise towards the Nile Delta. This area is renowned for its birdlife, making it a paradise for bird watchers. Keep an eye out for the rare shoebill stork, along with other species such as the African fish eagle, Goliath heron, and kingfishers. The delta is also home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants and antelope that come to drink at the water’s edge.

After the boat cruise, return to the lodge for lunch. Spend the early afternoon at leisure, perhaps enjoying the lodge’s facilities or taking a guided nature walk around the area.

In the late afternoon, set out on another game drive. This time, explore a different section of the park to increase your chances of spotting more wildlife. The evening hours are particularly good for seeing nocturnal animals starting their nightly activities. Return to the lodge for dinner and a restful night.

Day 4: Visit to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary and Return to Entebbe

On your final day, have breakfast and check out of the lodge. Begin your journey back to Entebbe with a stop at the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary en route. The sanctuary is home to Uganda’s only wild rhinos and offers a unique opportunity to observe these magnificent creatures on foot. A guided walk will take you close to the rhinos, allowing for fantastic photo opportunities and learning about the conservation efforts to protect them.

After the visit to the sanctuary, continue your drive back to Entebbe. Stop for lunch along the way and take in the last views of Uganda’s beautiful countryside. You will arrive in Entebbe in the late afternoon or early evening, where your guide will drop you off at your hotel or Entebbe International Airport, marking the end of your remarkable safari adventure.