4-Day Murchison Fall Safari
Introduction to the 4-Day Murchison Falls Safari
Embark on an unforgettable 4-Day Murchison Falls Safari in Uganda. This guided wildlife tour takes you to Uganda’s largest national park, offering breathtaking views, rich biodiversity, and thrilling activities. From rhino tracking at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary to game drives and the iconic boat cruise to the base of the falls, every moment is magical.
This Uganda safari blends adventure, wildlife, and relaxation. Choose between midrange and luxury lodges, ensuring comfort throughout your journey.
Day 1: Travel from Kampala to Murchison Falls National Park
6:00 AM – Departure from Kampala
- Begin your adventure with an early morning departure from Kampala. The journey to Murchison Falls National Park is approximately a 5-hour drive.
10:30 AM – Stop at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary
- En route, take a break at the Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary. Enjoy a guided walking safari to see the rhinos and learn about the sanctuary’s conservation efforts. This visit is an exciting opportunity to witness these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.
1:00 PM – Lunch at Kabalega Diner
- Relish a hearty lunch at Kabalega Diner, conveniently located on your route to the park. This will provide a perfect respite and fuel you for the journey ahead.
3:00 PM – Enter Murchison Falls National Park
- Continue your journey and arrive at the Murchison Falls National Park entrance. Embark on a scenic drive through the park, heading towards the Top of the Falls.
4:30 PM – Visit the Top of Murchison Falls
- Experience the awe-inspiring power of the Nile as it surges through a narrow gorge, creating the world’s most powerful waterfall. Engage in a guided hike around the falls for spectacular views and photo opportunities.
6:40 PM – Check into Your Lodge
- Settle into your midrange accommodation at either Pakuba Safari Lodge or Paraa Safari Lodge. Unwind and enjoy the serene environment of the park.
7:30 PM – Dinner and Relaxation
- Savor a delightful dinner at your lodge’s restaurant. Spend the evening relaxing, soaking in the sounds of the African wilderness, and preparing for the adventures ahead.
Day 2: Game Drive and Boat Ride
6:00 AM – Morning Game Drive
- Wake up early for a thrilling morning game drive. Witness the park’s diverse wildlife, including lions, elephants, giraffes, buffaloes, and various antelope species. The early morning hours are ideal for spotting predators and other animals.
12:00 PM – Lunch at the Lodge
- Return to your lodge for a sumptuous lunch. Relax and enjoy the lodge’s amenities before your afternoon activities.
2:00 PM – Afternoon Boat Ride on the Nile
- Embark on a captivating boat ride along the Nile River. This cruise will take you to the base of Murchison Falls. Offering a unique perspective of the falls and the chance to see hippos, crocodiles, and a plethora of bird species.
7:00 PM – Dinner and Overnight Stay
- Return to your lodge for dinner. Share stories of the day’s sightings and experiences before retreating to your comfortable room for a restful night.
Day 3: Game Drives and Relaxation
6:00 AM – Morning Game Drive
- Another early start for a morning game drive. Explore different areas of the park and search for any wildlife you may have missed the previous day. The park’s varied landscapes offer new and exciting encounters each day.
12:00 PM – Lunch at the Lodge
- Enjoy a leisurely lunch back at the lodge. Spend the early afternoon relaxing, perhaps taking a dip in the pool or enjoying the scenic views.
4:00 PM – Evening Game Drive into Night Game Drive
- As the day cools down, head out for an early evening game drive, which transitions into a night game drive. This experience provides a chance to spot nocturnal animals and enjoy the park under the starlit sky.
8:00 PM – Dinner and Overnight Stay
- Return to the lodge for dinner. Reflect on the diverse wildlife and unique experiences of the day before turning in for the night.
Day 4: Chimpanzee Tracking and Return to Kampala
5:30 AM – Early Breakfast
- Start your day with an early breakfast, preparing for another exciting adventure.
6:00 AM – Drive to Budongo Forest Reserve
- Depart for Budongo Forest Reserve, located on the southern edge of Murchison Falls National Park. The drive will take about an hour.
7:30 AM – Chimpanzee Tracking
- Engage in an exhilarating chimpanzee tracking experience in Budongo Forest. Guided by expert trackers, follow the trails to observe these fascinating primates in their natural habitat.
12:00 PM – Lunch at Kabalega Diner
- After an adventurous morning, stop for lunch at Kabalega Diner on your way back to Kampala. Enjoy a delicious meal and rest before continuing your journey.
1:30 PM – Return to Kampala
- Continue your drive back to Kampala, reflecting on the incredible experiences and memories made during your safari.
5:30 PM – Arrival in Kampala
- Arrive back in Kampala, marking the end of your unforgettable 4-day Murchison Falls safari.
Safari Summary
- Safari Duration: 4 Days, 3 Nights
- Destination: Murchison Falls National Park
- Activities: Rhino tracking, game drives, boat cruise, top of the falls hike
- Accommodation: Midrange and Luxury Lodges
- Starting/Ending Point: Kampala or Entebbe
Day 1: Travel to Murchison Falls via Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary
Begin your 4-day Murchison Falls safari with a scenic drive from Kampala to Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary. This is the only place in Uganda where you can track rhinos on foot.
Activities:
- Morning pickup from your hotel or airport.
- En route stop at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary for rhino tracking.
- Lunch at Kabalega Diner or Ziwa Guesthouse.
- Proceed to Murchison Falls National Park.
- Visit the Top of the Falls – watch the Nile explode through a narrow 7-meter gorge.
Accommodation:
- Midrange: Pakuba Safari Lodge / Murchison River Lodge
- Luxury: Paraa Safari Lodge / Nile Safari Lodge
Day 2: Morning Game Drive and Afternoon Boat Cruise
Wake up early for a game drive through Murchison’s northern sector, renowned for its rich wildlife population. Expect to spot lions, elephants, giraffes, buffalos, and more.
Morning Game Drive:
- Depart by 6:30 AM for a 3–4 hour wildlife drive.
- Explore the Buligi and Albert tracks for lion sightings.
- Look out for hyenas, Jackson’s hartebeest, oribi, and leopards.
Afternoon Boat Cruise:
- Cruise along the Victoria Nile to the base of Murchison Falls.
- Spot hippos, Nile crocodiles, elephants, and aquatic birds.
- Hike to the top of the falls (optional, requires moderate fitness).
Accommodation:
- Return to the lodge for dinner and overnight stay.
Day 3: Delta Boat Ride and Optional Evening Game Drive
Start your day with a unique delta boat cruise towards the Nile Delta, where the river empties into Lake Albert.
Morning Delta Boat:
- Excellent for birders: look for the shoebill stork, African fish eagle, and papyrus gonolek.
- Enjoy peaceful wildlife viewing and photography.
Afternoon Options:
- Relax at the lodge or go for another evening game drive.
- Visit a local community for a cultural experience.
Accommodation:
- Overnight at the same lodge for continuity and comfort.
Day 4: Return to Kampala or Entebbe
After breakfast, check out and begin your return journey. Take in the beautiful countryside as you drive back.
En route Highlights:
- Stop at Masindi or Kabalega Diner for lunch.
- Optional roadside craft shopping.
Arrive in Kampala or Entebbe by late afternoon. Drop-off at your hotel or airport.
Best Time for the 4 Days Murchison Falls Safari
The dry seasons (December–February and June–September) are ideal for wildlife viewing. However, the park remains accessible year-round.
Why Choose Steady Safaris?
- Over 15 years of experience in Uganda safaris
- Customized packages for midrange and luxury travelers
- Expert guides passionate about wildlife
- Commitment to safety and comfort
Accommodation Choices
Midrange Lodges:
- Pakuba Safari Lodge: Great location, wildlife nearby.
- Murchison River Lodge: River views, eco-friendly setup.
Luxury Lodges:
- Paraa Safari Lodge: Historic lodge, pool, Nile views.
- Nile Safari Lodge: Secluded, luxurious, and close to the river.
All lodges offer en-suite bathrooms, great meals, and serene views.
Book Your 4 Days Murchison Falls Safari Today
Ready for an epic Ugandan adventure? Whether you seek wildlife, nature, or luxury, our 4 Days Murchison Falls Safari delivers it all.
Contact us now to reserve your safari dates and receive a personalized quote!
👉 Book Now | 📧 info@steadysafaris.com | 📞 +256-752-643-809
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Final Thoughts
This 4 Day Murchison Falls Safari is perfect for travelers seeking a short yet thrilling adventure in Uganda. From the thunderous falls to abundant wildlife, every day brings a new experience.
Let Steady Safaris take you there — comfortably, safely, and memorably.
Rates per person
Pakuba Safari Lodge Rate per person $1,560
Paraa Safari Lodge Rate Person $1,860
Safari Inclusions
- Transportation: Enjoy travel in a comfortable 4×4 Land Cruiser or tour van.
- Accommodation: Full board accommodation with breakfast, lunch and dinner for 3 nights.
- Expert Guide: Services of a knowledgeable driver/guide with excellent English-speaking skills.
- Meals and Refreshments: Lunch and bottled water, tea, coffee provided during the safari.
- Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary: Entrance fees included.
- Chimpanzee Permits: Permits for chimpanzee trekking for each participant.
- Park Fees: All necessary park fees covered.
- Activities and Accommodation: All activities and accommodations as indicated in the itinerary.
- Government Levy: All government charges included
Safari Exclusions
- Airfare: Flights before and after the trip are not included.
- Uganda Visa: Obtainable online or at the airport for $50.
- Airport Taxes: Any applicable taxes at the airport.
- Insurance: Baggage, medical, and travel insurance are not covered.
- Alcoholic Beverages: Alcoholic drinks or beverages are not included.
- Additional Meals: Meals not specified in the itinerary.
- Tips: Gratuities for the guide, park rangers, and hotel staff.
- Personal Expenses: Items of a personal nature, such as souvenirs and phone bills.
Packing Essentials for Your Murchison Falls Safari
Light Clothing: Pack breathable, light clothing to keep cool, especially during the dry season. Heavy clothes can make you uncomfortable during activities like chimpanzee trekking.
Good Hiking Shoes: This safari includes walking-intensive activities such as rhino tracking, hiking to the top of Murchison Falls, and chimpanzee trekking. Ensure you have sturdy, comfortable shoes suitable for these excursions.
Sunglasses and a Wide-Brimmed Hat: Protect yourself from the sun’s rays during game drives and trekking. A good pair of sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat are essential.
A Good Camera and Binoculars: Capture the breathtaking wildlife, landscapes, and local culture. High-quality photos will help preserve your memories of Uganda and allow you to share your experience with friends and family.
Personal Medication: If you have any medical conditions, consult your doctor before traveling and bring all necessary medications with you. Medical facilities in rural Uganda can be unreliable, so it’s crucial to be prepared.
Lodges that you can choose from
Paraa Safari Lodge
Paraa Safari Lodge: Established in 1954, Paraa Safari Lodge is a premier luxury destination in Murchison Falls National Park, managed by Marasa Africa, part of the Madhvani Group. Nestled on the banks of the Nile River, just downstream of the magnificent Murchison Falls, the lodge seamlessly blends adventure with luxury and comfort. Each of its 30 elegantly decorated rooms is self-contained, featuring private bathrooms and balconies with stunning views of the Nile. Guests can choose from single, double, or twin rooms, as well as special luxury suites and accessible rooms for persons with disabilities.
The lodge’s prime location allows guests to easily participate in a variety of park activities, including boat cruises on the Nile and thrilling game drives. Wildlife often wanders into the lodge’s grounds, providing a unique and intimate experience with nature. For fishing enthusiasts, Paraa Safari Lodge offers equipment and guidance for fishing trips aimed at catching the Nile Perch. After a day of adventure, guests can relax in the large swimming pool, which overlooks the Nile, perfect for unwinding and soaking in the serene environment.
Pakuba Safari Lodge
Pakuba Safari Lodge: Positioned in the northern part of Murchison Falls National Park, Pakuba Safari Lodge is a top mid-range accommodation option, set near the ruins of a lodge once used by the Ugandan dictator Idi Amin. The lodge boasts 46 spacious, grass-thatched rooms, all self-contained with private bathrooms, each offering spectacular views of the Nile. Guests can choose between twin and double rooms, all equipped with modern amenities including clean toilets, bathrooms, and working tables.
The lodge’s location in the African wilderness ensures frequent sightings of park animals such as giraffes, warthogs, and baboons right from your window. Amenities include a large swimming pool, wireless internet, a business center, and a conference hall with a capacity of 50 people. The lodge also features a bar and a restaurant serving both continental and local dishes. The well-stocked bar, offering both Ugandan and international beverages, provides an excellent setting for mingling with fellow guests or enjoying games on the big screens.
Murchison River Lodge
Murchison River Lodge: Ideal for budget-conscious travelers, Murchison River Lodge is located in the southern section of the park, close to the Nile River. The lodge offers a mix of thatched-roof cottages and camping tents for backpackers. Campers should bring their own gear, but the campsite includes self-catering facilities, toilets, showers, and a fireplace for evening relaxation.
This lodge is perfect for those who want affordable yet high-quality accommodations. Its strategic location allows easy access to various park activities, such as sport fishing, boat rides to the Albert Delta, and birding excursions. Proximity to Paraa ensures guests can enjoy game drives in the Paraa sector of the park, while its closeness to Budongo Forest provides excellent opportunities for chimpanzee trekking and nature walks without long travel distances.
Each of these lodges offers unique experiences and amenities to enhance your safari adventure in Murchison Falls National Park, ensuring unforgettable memories of Uganda’s incredible wildlife and landscapes.
Nile Safari Lodge
Nile Safari Lodge: Nestled along the southern bank of the Nile River within Murchison Falls National Park, Nile Safari Lodge epitomizes eco-luxury and tranquility. This upscale lodge offers an intimate and immersive experience in the heart of Uganda’s wilderness, combining sustainable practices with unparalleled comfort.
The lodge features eight lavish bandas (traditional-style huts) designed to blend seamlessly with the natural environment. Each banda is self-contained, offering private bathrooms, outdoor showers, and spacious verandas with breathtaking views of the Nile. The bandas are tastefully decorated with a fusion of contemporary and traditional African design elements, providing a stylish and serene retreat.
Important Tour Information
This 4-Day Murchison Falls Safari is open to everyone, including children of all ages. While children cannot participate in chimpanzee trekking due to age restrictions, they will be well taken care of. They can either stay at the restaurant or join our guide/driver for nature walks and sightseeing while the adults search for the chimpanzees.
Feel free to customize this itinerary to include other activities that interest you. Let us know if there’s anything specific you’d like to add. We can also arrange for activities in other national parks, such as Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Queen Elizabeth National Park, or the Rwenzori Mountains.
Murchison Falls National Park is open all year-round, but the best times to visit are from June to September and January to March. These months constitute the dry season when the park roads are in optimal condition. During the dry season, animals tend to gather around water sources, making it easier for tourists to spot them.