3 Days Murchison Falls Safari: Game drives, Chimps, Boat Cruise & Hiking to top of the Falls

Located in northwestern Uganda, Murchison Falls National Park is the country’s largest and oldest conservation area. With its diverse wildlife, stunning landscapes, and the iconic Murchison Falls, this park is a must-visit destination for nature and adventure enthusiasts.

A 3 Days Murchison Falls safari offers an ideal blend of thrilling game drives, a relaxing boat cruise on the Nile, and an awe-inspiring trek to the top of the falls. Here’s a detailed itinerary, essential tips, and everything you need to know to plan this unforgettable trip.

Activity Overview

Trip Summary:

Day 1: Transfer to Murchison Falls National Park and Visit the Top of the Falls

Day 2: Morning Game Drive and Afternoon Boat Cruise

Day 3: Chimpanzee Tracking in Budongo Forest and Return to Kampala

 

---

Detailed Itinerary of the 3 Days Murchison Falls Safari

Day 1: Transfer to Murchison Falls National Park and Visit the Top of the Falls

• Morning Departure from Kampala or Entebbe
  Start your journey early in the morning with a scenic drive to Murchison Falls National Park. The drive, approximately 5–6 hours, takes you through the lush countryside, passing small towns, plantations, and local markets. You can stop at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary for rhino tracking, an exciting opportunity to see these endangered creatures in their natural habitat.
• Arrival and Check-In
  Arrive at your lodge or camp in the park, where you’ll have lunch and relax. Accommodation options include luxury lodges like Paraa Safari Lodge, mid-range options like Pakuba Safari Lodge, and budget-friendly camps such as Red Chilli Rest Camp.
• Afternoon Visit to the Top of the Falls
  In the afternoon, take a guided hike to the top of Murchison Falls. Witness the sheer force of the Nile as it thunders through the narrow gorge, creating a misty spray and rainbows. This is an excellent spot for photography and marveling at nature’s raw power.
• Dinner and Overnight Stay
  Return to your lodge for a relaxing evening, dinner, and rest in preparation for the next day’s adventure.

---

Day 2: Morning Game Drive and Afternoon Boat Cruise

• Early Morning Game Drive
  Start your day with an early morning game drive on the northern bank of the Nile. This is the best time to spot wildlife, as animals are most active during the cooler hours.
  Expect to see:
  • Lions stalking their prey in the savannah.
  • Elephants moving in herds across the plains.
  • Giraffes, zebras, and antelopes like Uganda kobs, hartebeests, and waterbucks.
  • Leopards hiding in trees or bushes, though sightings are rare.

  Your experienced guide will help track and identify the animals, making this an exciting and educational experience.

• Return for Breakfast and Relaxation
  After the game drive, head back to your lodge for breakfast and some downtime before the afternoon activities.
• Afternoon Boat Cruise on the Nile
  In the afternoon, embark on a 2–3 hour boat cruise on the Nile River, one of the highlights of the safari. This relaxing trip takes you close to wildlife along the riverbanks, including hippos, crocodiles, and various bird species like the African fish eagle and the rare shoebill stork. The cruise ends near the base of Murchison Falls, where you can feel the river’s thunderous power up close.
• Optional Hike to the Top of the Falls
  For the adventurous, there’s an option to disembark near the falls and hike to the top. This guided hike offers more incredible views and photo opportunities.
• Dinner and Overnight Stay
  Return to your lodge for dinner and another restful night.

---

Day 3: Chimpanzee Tracking in Budongo Forest and Return to Kampala

• Morning Chimpanzee Tracking in Budongo Forest
  On your final day, explore the Budongo Forest Reserve, located within Murchison Falls National Park. Budongo is home to a large population of chimpanzees, and tracking these intelligent primates is a memorable experience. As you trek through the dense forest, you’ll also encounter other wildlife like monkeys, birds, and butterflies.
• Lunch and Departure
  After the chimpanzee trek, enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant or lodge before starting your journey back to Kampala or Entebbe.
• Arrival in Kampala/Entebbe
  Arrive in the evening, concluding your 3-day adventure.

End of 3 Days Murchison Falls National Park Safari

---

Cost of the Safari

The cost of a 3 Days Murchison Falls safari depends on several factors. These include your choice of accommodation (luxury, mid-range, or budget), the activities included (such as chimpanzee tracking or boat cruises), and the number of travelers in your group. Additional costs may arise from transport options, whether private or shared, and the type of vehicle used. Seasonal variations also impact pricing, with peak seasons being more expensive due to demand. Park entrance fees, meals, and guide services are typically included in package costs but can vary. Customizations and add-ons may also influence the final price.

---

Why Visit Murchison Falls National Park?

Murchison Falls National Park, established in 1952, spans over 3,840 square kilometers. It is named after the magnificent Murchison Falls, where the Nile River squeezes through a narrow 7-meter gorge before plunging 45 meters into a frothy pool below.

The park is home to over 76 mammal species, including the Big Five, and more than 450 bird species. Its varied ecosystems, including savannahs, forests, and wetlands, support this rich biodiversity, making it one of Uganda’s premier safari destinations.

Best Time to Visit Murchison Falls National Park

The park is accessible year-round, but the best time to visit is during the dry seasons (December–February and June–September). During these months, animals are easier to spot near water sources, and the roads are more navigable.

---

How to Book Your Safari

Booking a safari to Murchison Falls is simple. You can:

• Contact a trusted tour operator for a package that includes all logistics.
• Book directly with lodges for accommodation and hire a guide separately.
• Pay online via credit cards, bank transfers, or mobile money platforms.

---

Travel Tips for Murchison Falls Safari

1. What to Pack:
   • Lightweight clothes, sturdy hiking boots, sun protection, and insect repellent.
   • A good camera and binoculars for wildlife spotting.
2. Health Precautions:
   • Ensure you have an updated yellow fever vaccination card.
   • Take malaria prevention medication as recommended by your doctor.
3. Travel Insurance:
   • It’s advisable to have comprehensive travel insurance covering safari activities.

---

Conclusion

A 3-day Murchison Falls National Park safari is an adventure-packed experience that showcases the best of Uganda’s wildlife, landscapes, and natural wonders. From thrilling game drives and serene boat cruises to hiking and chimpanzee tracking, every moment offers something unique. Whether you’re a nature lover, wildlife enthusiast, or adventure seeker, this safari is sure to leave you with lasting memories of the Pearl of Africa.

Plan your trip today and let Murchison Falls National Park take your breath away!