Where to stay in Murchison Falls National Park : Of the 10 national parks in Uganda, Murchison Falls National Park is the biggest, most well-liked, and most frequently visited. Situated on the country’s northwest border with the Democratic Republic of the Congo, it spans a vast area of approximately 1,500 square kilometers.
It was founded in 1952 by the British administrators who were in charge of Uganda at the time. The closest settlement, Masindi, is roughly 45 km away from Murchison Falls National Park. Nevertheless, Kampala, which is located roughly 175 miles from Murchison, also offers park visits.
The Murchison Falls, also called the Kabalega Falls, are the park’s most visited features. Unofficially, the name was changed in 1970 while Idi Amin was in control, but it was returned to the original name when the dictator was overthrown.
Situated at the highest point of the well-known Victoria Lake, the falls are a portion of the so-called White Nile. This remarkably magnificent location is the subject of numerous tales, one of which claims that a Roman legion dispatched by Nero “discovered” the falls in 61 AD.
There are lots of other activities and locations to explore once you’ve hiked to the top of Murchison Falls. As we’ve already stated, the park is enormous and home to a diverse array of plants and animals.
For instance, four of the Big Five call it home, and there are numerous safari tours that will allow you to get up close and personal with Africa’s most renowned animals. There is also the stunning Nile, which is home to a variety of inhabitants, like rare birds and crocodiles, as well as a lively, life-giving quality.
While it is possible to drive from Kampala to Murchison Falls National Park, there are many hotels nearby or even within the park’s boundaries. However, the majority of them lack luxury, so you’d better head to the capital if you’re searching for anything more upmarket.
Things to do at Murchison Falls National Park
Game drives are the most popular activity at Murchison Falls National Park. They are divided into three categories: night drives, afternoon drives, and morning drives. They take place in standard safari vehicles. Since most animals hide from the midday sun, the most rewarding trips are typically those in the morning and at night. You can anticipate seeing lions, leopards, warthogs, elephants, waterbucks, and a ton of other animals.
Boat rides down the White Nile are the park’s second-most popular activity (or, for some, its first). Numerous tours are available, with a focus on the Murchison Falls or the area surrounding the Nile. The natural splendor and variety of animals are remarkable, much as on safari vacations. In addition to the abundance of buffalo, crocodiles, and hippos, the birdlife is rather diverse.
Budongo Forest is the best place to undertake chimpanzee trekking; it is located either inside or close to the park, depending on who you ask. Actually, the trekking is a well-planned excursion, typically done in small groups of no more than six, to visit the chimpanzee family. You get anywhere from thirty to four hours to spend time interacting with the monkey families once you arrive there.
With over 450 different kinds and species of birds, Murchison Falls National Park is one of the top places in Africa to go birdwatching. As might be assumed, the park’s woods, savannahs, and riverlands are all home to a variety of birds. Among the most significant species found in the park are several varieties of storks and cranes, as well as the enormous fisher.
Where to Eat at Murchison Falls National Park
In Masandi, a tiny village next to Murchison Falls National Park, there’s a traditional African restaurant and barbecue called Pross’ Residence Restaurant. If you’re searching for a hearty and flavorful serving of beef, this option is ideal. Apart from that, though, it has a good selection of drinks, good coffee, and even some excellent breakfast options.
Your best bet for a delicious lunch or dinner inside the park is most likely the Sambiya River Lodge Restaurant, which is housed in the lovely Sambiya River Lodge hotel in Murchison Falls National Park. With its lovely design and wonderful atmosphere, it provides a genuine and traditional look at some of Uganda’s most popular foods.
Murchison Falls National Park Budget Hotels
The most affordable lodging option inside Murchison Falls National Park is most likely Red Chilli Rest Camp. It still features a restaurant, bar, and lovely garden on the property, making it especially ideal for those looking to cut costs while visiting Uganda.
The reasonably priced, decent two-star Hoima Buffalo Hotel & Business Hub LTD is situated in close proximity to Murchison Falls National Park. Remarkably, the hotel offers a restaurant, bar, and excellent fitness center in addition to a swimming pool. And lastly, breakfast is served in the morning.
Murchison Falls National Park Mid-Range Hotels
Inside the Murchison Falls National Park is a fantastic mid-range hotel called Murchison Giraffe Camp. The lodging features a terrific location, a gorgeous garden, a common lounge space, fully furnished rooms, fireplaces in front of the units, and a fantastic bar where guests can unwind with a drink.
Inside Murchison Falls National Park is another stunning and environmentally friendly place to stay: Murchison Falls Bamboo Village. It has almost everything, including a wonderful garden and outdoor pool, as well as a fantastic restaurant with both meat and vegetarian alternatives.
Murchison Falls National Park Luxury Hotels
Probably the most opulent and costly lodging option in Murchison Falls National Park is Sambiya River Lodge. Each room has a sitting space and a separate shower-only bathroom. In addition, the hotel offers free parking, free Wi-Fi throughout the building, and an outdoor pool.
Within the park, there is also the posh and pricey Twiga Safari Lodge. It’s especially great for couples on a romantic getaway or weekend because it features a great outdoor pool, fully furnished rooms, an on-site restaurant and bar, and a great view of the river.
