Murchison Falls Gates, Routes & Self-Drive Guide

Murchison Falls gates sit on every side of Uganda's largest park, and choosing the right one shapes your whole trip: it decides how long you drive, which part of the park you see first and, because entry is charged per 24 hours, sometimes how much you pay.

From Kampala: the southern gates

The most direct route from Kampala runs north through Luwero and Nakasongola, usually with a stop at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, then on to Masindi and Kichumbanyobo, the main southern gate. From there the road crosses the forested south of the park to the top of the falls and Paraa.

From Hoima and the west: Bugungu

Bugungu gate, in the south-west near Lake Albert, suits travellers coming from Hoima or combining Murchison with the Albertine Rift. The approach is scenic and quieter.

From the north: Karuma and Pakwach

Travellers coming from Gulu or Kidepo Valley usually cross the Nile at Karuma and enter through one of the northern gates, such as Chobe, Wankwar or Tangi. These lead directly to the northern game-drive country, the park's best area for wildlife.

Driving inside the park

Park tracks are mostly gravel and become slippery after rain, so a 4×4 with good ground clearance is strongly recommended. Keep to the speed limit, which is low to protect wildlife, stay on marked tracks and do not get out of your vehicle except at designated points. Driving after dark is generally not permitted; check gate opening hours and plan to be at your lodge before nightfall.

The Paraa ferry

The Paraa ferry links the south bank, where most lodges and the top of the falls are, with the northern game-drive area. It runs at set times through the day and charges per crossing by vehicle type. Times change, and the ferry occasionally stops for maintenance or very high water, so check the schedule locally and plan drives around it.

Fuel, food and supplies

Fill up in Masindi or Hoima before entering; fuel inside the park is limited. Food is mainly available at lodges, so carry snacks and water for long drives.

Fees and your gate choice

Entry is valid for 24 hours, so entering early and leaving through a convenient gate can save paying for an extra day. See Murchison Falls park fees and getting to Murchison Falls.