Where to Stay at Murchison Falls

Where to stay at Murchison Falls depends mainly on which bank of the Nile you choose. The north bank puts you next to the best game-drive country; the south bank, where most lodges sit along the river, is close to the top of the falls and the Paraa ferry.

The north bank

Lodges on the north bank, including Paraa Safari Lodge beside the launch jetty and Pakuba Safari Lodge near the Albert Nile, are minutes from the Buligi game tracks at dawn. They suit travellers who want to maximise game drives.

The south bank

Along the south bank, lodges such as Nile Safari Lodge, Baker's Lodge and Murchison River Lodge overlook the Nile, with hippos and birds below. They are convenient for the top of the falls and reach the north bank via the Paraa ferry.

Choosing by style

There are options from simple bandas and campsites to classic lodges and stylish riverside suites. All are in a wild area, so expect to eat at your lodge and to travel with a guide after dark.

The ferry

The Paraa ferry links the two banks at set times through the day. Your guide will plan drives, boat trips and meals around it, so the choice of bank is less important than it first appears.

Options at every budget

Beyond the lodges featured on this site, Murchison Falls has places to stay at most budgets. Red Chilli Rest Camp at Paraa, on the south bank close to the ferry, is a popular budget choice with simple rooms and tents. Twiga Safari Lodge and Sambiya River Lodge on the south side offer mid-range rooms. On the north side, Fort Murchison sits above the Nile near the delta. Chobe Safari Lodge, on the Nile in the east of the park near Karuma, is a larger lodge useful for travellers arriving from the north or heading to Kidepo.

How to choose

Choose the north bank to be close to the best game-drive country, and the south bank for river views, the top of the falls and easier access from Kampala. Remember that the Paraa ferry links the two banks at set times, so check the timetable when planning game drives and launch trips. For the delta cruise, a lodge close to Paraa or on the north bank near the delta saves time. Book early for the dry seasons, December to February and June to September.