Murchison Falls Boat Trip

The Murchison Falls boat trip is the classic way to see Uganda's most powerful waterfall: a three-hour launch cruise up the Victoria Nile from Paraa to the foot of the falls, past some of the densest concentrations of hippos and Nile crocodiles in Africa. A second trip, downstream to the papyrus delta on Lake Albert, is one of the best chances anywhere to see the shoebill.

The launch trip to the falls

Launches leave Paraa in the morning and afternoon. The river is broad and slow, and the banks are busy: hippo pods, elephants drinking at the water's edge, buffaloes, waterbuck and crocodiles hauled out on sandbanks. Birdlife is outstanding, with goliath herons, African fish eagles and colonies of carmine bee-eaters in season. As the river narrows, the boat holds position below the falls while the spray rises ahead.

Hiking to the top of the falls

Ask to be dropped at the base of the trail on the way upstream. The walk to the top takes about 45 minutes to an hour on a steep, sometimes slippery path, and ends beside the seven-metre gap where the whole Nile forces through the rock. A vehicle meets you at the top. Read Seven Metres of Nile for what to expect.

The delta trip for shoebills

The delta cruise heads downstream to where the Nile enters Lake Albert. It takes about four hours and is best in the early morning. Shoebills are seen on many trips but never guaranteed; you will also see papyrus birds, herons and often elephants. See The Shoebill at the Edge of the Delta.

How to include it

Both trips are part of our three-day Murchison Falls safari and the ten-day Uganda waterfalls and gorillas route. Stay at Paraa Safari Lodge, next to the jetty, or across the river at Baker's Lodge.

Read our Murchison Falls guide and check the month-by-month water levels before you book.

Seasons, age limits and operating days are set by the operators and can change; check them when you book.