Victoria Track in Murchison Falls National Park

Murchison Falls National Park, one of Uganda’s oldest and most iconic parks, lies in the northwestern region of the country. Covering an impressive 3,840 square kilometers, it is Uganda’s largest national park, formerly known as Kabalega National Park. The park is renowned for its dramatic landscapes, diverse wildlife, and, of course, the spectacular Murchison Falls where the Nile River plunges through a narrow gorge.

Among the many routes in the park, the Victoria Track stands out as a favorite for wildlife enthusiasts. This track offers an intimate safari experience, weaving through savannah, acacia woodland, and open grasslands while giving visitors the chance to spot some of Uganda’s most iconic animals.

Location and Overview of Victoria Track

The Victoria Track is situated between the Queen’s Track and Buligi Track, forming a connection to the park’s delta. Stretching approximately 17 kilometers, this route is perfect for travelers eager to experience the classic African safari.

One of the main reasons for its popularity is the lion pride that has made this area its home for over a year. Visitors are often thrilled to catch a glimpse of these magnificent predators in their natural habitat.

Apart from lions, the Victoria Track is home to a variety of wildlife, including:

• Buffalo
• Rothschild’s giraffes
• Leopards
• Spotted hyenas
• Warthogs
• Bushbucks
• Elephants
• Oribi
• Numerous other species

The track also offers excellent opportunities to observe the park’s rich birdlife, making it a versatile choice for wildlife lovers.

Activities on the Victoria Track

Visitors can enjoy a range of safari activities along this track, each offering a unique perspective of the park:

1. Game Drives

Game drives are the highlight of any safari on the Victoria Track. Conducted in 4×4 safari vehicles with pop-up roofs, they allow close-up viewing of wildlife in a safe and comfortable setting.

Game drives are available during morning, afternoon, evening, and even night sessions. Guided drives are highly recommended, as experienced guides help locate animals and provide insights into their behavior and habitat.

2. Birding

Birding along the Victoria Track is a treat for enthusiasts. The varied habitats attract a wide range of species. Some of the birds you might encounter include:

• African fishing eagle
• Helmeted guinea fowl
• Crested francolins
• Secretary birds
• Abyssinian ground hornbill

With binoculars in hand, bird watchers can enjoy hours of observing these fascinating creatures in their natural surroundings.

Other Tracks in Murchison Falls National Park

While the Victoria Track is a must-visit, the park offers several other notable tracks:

• Buligi Track – Located on the northern side near Paara Safari Lodge, this 7-kilometer track stretches through savannah, acacia, riverine, and woodland habitats. It connects to the confluence of the Nile River and Lake Albert.
• Chobe Track – Extending for 67 kilometers, Chobe Track links the Te’bito Track junction, Karuma Falls, and Chobe Safari Lodge. It offers diverse wildlife-viewing opportunities.
• Queen’s Track – A shorter track that serves as an interconnecting route to Victoria and Albert Tracks, ideal for flexible safari routes.
• T’ebito Track – This track leads to the top of Murchison Falls, providing hiking opportunities and connecting to Chobe Track and Wankara Gate.

Where to Stay

Murchison Falls National Park has a variety of accommodations catering to different budgets and preferences. Some recommended lodges and camps near Victoria Track include:

• Paara Lodge
• Pakuba Safari Lodge
• Sambiya Lodge
• Twiga Lodge
• Fort Murchison Lodge
• Hornbill Lodge
• Entiiko Lodge
• Budongo Forest Lodge

These lodges offer a blend of comfort, accessibility, and proximity to the park’s wildlife hotspots.

How to Get There

Murchison Falls National Park can be accessed by road or air:

• By air: Scheduled charter flights operate from Entebbe International Airport or Kajjansi Airstrip to local airstrips such as Pakuba, Chobe, or Bugungu.
• By road: The park is reachable via several gates, including Kichumbanyobo Gate, Tangi Gate, Chobe Gate, Mubako Gate, Bugungu Gate, and Wankara Gate.

Best Time to Visit

Murchison Falls National Park is accessible throughout the year, but the dry seasons from June to September and December to February offer the best wildlife-viewing conditions. During these months, animals gather around water sources, and the tracks are easier to navigate.

The Victoria Track in Murchison Falls National Park is a must-explore route for any safari lover seeking thrilling wildlife encounters, scenic landscapes, and unforgettable memories. Whether you’re chasing lions, spotting giraffes, or watching eagles soar overhead, this track delivers a true African safari experience.