short but action-packed 2 Days Murchison Falls safari

Murchison Falls National Park is one of Uganda’s most iconic wildlife destinations, renowned for its stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and, of course, the dramatic Murchison Falls.

A 2 Days Murchison Falls safari allows you to experience the park’s highlights, including thrilling game drives, boat safaris, and the awe-inspiring waterfall. This short but action-packed itinerary offers a fantastic way to discover Uganda’s wilderness in a limited amount of time.

You may also like 2 Days Uganda Gorilla Safari

Tour Highlights of the 2 Days Murchison Falls Safari

Scenic drives
Visit Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary (optional)
Game drives and Wildlife viewing
Boat safari
Hike Murchison Falls

Detailed Itinerary of the 2 Days Murchison Falls Safari

Day 1: Arrival & Game Drive in Murchison Falls National Park

Morning: Arrival and Transfer to Murchison Falls

7:00 AM – Pick Up from Kampala or Entebbe
The safari begins with a pick-up from your hotel in Kampala or Entebbe, the capital cities of Uganda. A scenic drive takes you through the Ugandan countryside, past lush landscapes, traditional villages, and the famous Luweero Triangle. The journey to Murchison Falls typically takes around 5-6 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.
Stop at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary (Optional): If you’re departing early from Kampala, you can make a brief stop at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary en route to Murchison Falls. The sanctuary offers an opportunity to see Uganda’s only rhinos in the wild and also provides a chance for a short guided walk.
12:00 PM – Arrival at Murchison Falls National Park
Upon arrival at Murchison Falls, you’ll be greeted by the beauty of the park’s vast savannah, tropical rainforests, and the mighty Nile River.

After your arrival at Murchison Falls National Park, you’ll check into your lodge or camp. Options range from mid-range to luxury, including Paraa Safari Lodge, Murchison River Lodge, or Budongo Eco Lodge, depending on your preferences.

Afternoon: Game Drive and Wildlife Viewing

2:30 PM – Afternoon Game Drive
After lunch, you’ll embark on your first game drive in the park. Murchison Falls is home to an abundance of wildlife, including the “Big Five” (lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhino), as well as giraffes, zebras, antelopes, warthogs, and a variety of primates. The park’s vast savannah and woodland habitats provide excellent opportunities to spot animals in their natural environment.

Your guide will take you through key game viewing areas such as Kasenyi Plains, the Paraa sector, and the Buligi area, where herds of elephants and buffalo often roam. You’ll also be able to see predators such as lions and leopards, as well as various bird species, including the African Fish Eagle, Secretary Bird, and Shoebill Stork (in the wetlands).

The northern sector of Murchison Falls National Park is particularly known for its large populations of elephants, buffalo, and giraffes. If you’re lucky, you might also spot predators like lions or leopards in the late afternoon when they’re more active.
6:00 PM – Sunset at Murchison Falls
After the game drive, head to a viewpoint for a spectacular sunset. Murchison Falls is known for its breathtaking beauty, and watching the sun dip below the horizon, while the Nile River flows beneath, is an unforgettable experience.
7:30 PM – Dinner and Overnight Stay
Return to your lodge or camp for a delicious dinner, where you can relax and reflect on the day’s sightings.

Day 2: Boat Safari, Murchison Falls, and Departure

Early Morning: Boat Safari on the Nile River

6:00 AM – Boat Safari on the Nile River
On the second day of your safari, start early with a boat cruise along the Victoria Nile, heading upstream towards Murchison Falls. This is one of the best ways to experience the park’s wildlife and scenery. The boat ride takes you through the Murchison Falls Delta, where you’ll encounter large concentrations of animals along the riverbank.
You’ll likely see hippos, crocodiles, elephants, and a variety of birdlife, including African Fish Eagles, Kingfishers, and the rare Shoebill Stork. The boat ride also offers a chance to view the spectacular Murchison Falls up close, where the Nile River is forced through a narrow gap in the rocks before plunging 43 meters into the gorge below.
8:00 AM – Walk to the Top of Murchison Falls
After the boat ride, you’ll disembark at Nile Point and embark on a short hike to the top of Murchison Falls. The hike is not strenuous and offers fantastic views of the falls and the surrounding landscapes.
Standing at the top of the falls, you’ll be able to witness the raw power of the Nile as it crashes down through the narrow gorge, creating a thunderous roar and mist that forms rainbows on sunny days. This is one of the most spectacular natural sights in Uganda.

Hike Duration: 1-2 hours, depending on your pace and stops for photography.
What to Expect: The view of the falls from the top is breathtaking, with water plummeting 43 meters into the gorge below, creating a mist that often forms rainbows on sunny days.

Late Morning: Final Game Drive and Departure

10:00 AM – Final Game Drive
After visiting the falls, you’ll enjoy a brief game drive on your way out of the park. Depending on your departure time, you may spot more wildlife or revisit areas where you saw interesting animals the day before. You can also enjoy a final opportunity to capture some last-minute photos before leaving the park.
11:30 AM – Lunch and Depart for Kampala
After the morning game drive, enjoy lunch at your lodge or a nearby rest stop, and then begin your drive back to Kampala or Entebbe. You will retrace your journey back through the Ugandan countryside, with a chance to stop and buy some souvenirs or simply relax before reaching your destination.
Late Afternoon: Departure
By mid-afternoon, you’ll start your journey back to Kampala or Entebbe, depending on your departure location. The drive takes about 5-6 hours, and you’ll pass through the countryside once again, providing a final chance to take in the beauty of Uganda before concluding your safari.

End of 2 Days Murchison Falls safari

This short but action-packed 2 Days Murchison Falls safari gives you a taste of Uganda’s wildlife, offering memorable boat rides, thrilling game drives, and a chance to witness the majesty of Murchison Falls itself. Whether you’re an avid wildlife enthusiast or just looking for a quick getaway, Murchison Falls National Park offers a unique and unforgettable experience.

Accommodation Options in Murchison Falls National Park

Luxury:

Paraa Safari Lodge: Overlooking the Nile, this luxury lodge offers stunning views, an outdoor pool, and excellent service, making it a perfect choice for those seeking comfort and relaxation.
Bwana Tembo Safari Camp: A mid-range option offering cozy tents with en-suite bathrooms, situated along the Nile River.

Mid-Range:

Murchison River Lodge: An intimate lodge on the banks of the Nile, offering a mix of luxury and affordability with beautiful views of the river.
Red Chili Rest Camp: Budget-friendly accommodation with a relaxed atmosphere, ideal for those looking for a simple and affordable stay.

Budget:

Budongo Eco Lodge: A more affordable, eco-friendly lodge offering basic but comfortable accommodation with great access to the park’s attractions.

Best Time to Visit Murchison Falls National Park

Dry season (June to September): Ideal for game drives and easier access to wildlife.
Wet season (March to May, October to November): A quieter time, perfect for birdwatching and fewer tourists, though rain may affect travel times.

Travel Tips

Health: Bring sunscreen, insect repellent, and a hat.
Camera: Make sure you have extra memory cards and a charged camera.
Clothing: Wear light, comfortable clothes for the game drives and sturdy shoes for the hikes.

Safari Inclusions & Exclusions of the 2 Days Murchison Falls safari

Inclusions:

Pick-up and drop-off from Kampala or Entebbe
All transportation during the safari, including 4×4 vehicle with a professional guide
Accommodation for 1 night
All meals (lunch, dinner, breakfast)
Game drives in Murchison Falls National Park
Boat cruise on the Nile River
Hike to the top of Murchison Falls
Park entrance fees

Exclusions:

International flights
Personal expenses (souvenirs, drinks, etc.)
Travel insurance
Tips for guides and staff
Additional activities not mentioned in the itinerary

Conclusion

A 2 Days Murchison Falls safari offers a great introduction to Uganda’s natural wonders. From thrilling game drives and breathtaking boat safaris to witnessing the raw power of Murchison Falls, this short safari provides an unforgettable wildlife experience.

Whether you’re interested in photographing wildlife, enjoying the landscapes, or simply relaxing by the Nile, this itinerary combines adventure, relaxation, and stunning views to make the most of your time in Uganda’s largest national park.