Things to Do at Murchison Falls

The best things to do at Murchison Falls combine water and wildlife: a boat trip up the Nile to the foot of the falls, a hike to the top where the whole river forces through a seven-metre gap, game drives for lions and giraffes, and a morning in the papyrus delta looking for the shoebill.

Take the launch trip to the falls

The three-hour boat trip from Paraa up the Victoria Nile passes some of the densest concentrations of hippos and crocodiles in Africa, with elephants and buffaloes at the water's edge, before holding position below the falls.

Hike to the top of the falls

Ask to be dropped at the base of the trail on the launch trip and climb for about 45 minutes to an hour to the top, where the noise and force of the water are overwhelming. Vehicles can also drive to the top viewpoint on the south bank.

Game drives on the north bank

Cross the river on the Paraa ferry for morning and afternoon drives on the Buligi plains, between the Victoria Nile and Lake Albert. Look for Rothschild's giraffes, elephants, buffaloes, Uganda kob, Jackson's hartebeest, lions and leopards. North-bank lodges such as Pakuba Safari Lodge are closest to the tracks.

Cruise to the delta for shoebills

A morning boat trip downstream to the Nile delta on Lake Albert is one of the best chances in Africa to see the shoebill, along with a long list of waterbirds. See our shoebill story.

Track rhinos at Ziwa

On the way from Kampala, Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary offers guided walks to see white rhinos on foot. It is the only place in Uganda to see rhinos and breaks the drive neatly.

Track chimpanzees in Budongo Forest

The Budongo Forest at the southern edge of the conservation area has habituated chimpanzees and excellent forest birding, making a good half-day addition.

Fish the Nile

The river below the falls is known for sport fishing, especially for Nile perch. Fishing requires a permit and is done with licensed guides.

Watch birds along the river

From goliath herons and African fish eagles to bee-eater colonies in the riverbanks, birding is excellent from the boat and on game drives throughout the year.