Safari in Murchison Falls National Park

    Safari in Murchison Falls National Park

    13 safari lodges
    Northern Uganda & Murchison Falls, Uganda
    Very Quiet
    Malaria: High

    Uganda's largest national park, Murchison Falls is iconic for its powerful waterfall where the Nile River squeezes through a 7-meter gorge. It offers classic big game viewing with four of the Big Five (lions, leopards, elephants, buffalo), giraffes, and a spectacular boat cruise to the base of the falls, teeming with hippos and crocodiles.

    Best timeJune to September and December to February (dry seasons) for gorilla trekking and wildlife.
    Species
    120
    Big Five
    4/5
    Lodges
    13
    Area
    3.877 km²
    Recommended stay
    1-2 days
    Est.
    1954

    Murchison Falls National Park Map

    Park location and safari lodges

    The African Big 5

    4 of 5 found in Murchison Falls National Park

    Lion
    Elephant
    Buffalo
    Leopard
    Rhino

    Recent sightings at Murchison Falls National Park

    Sign in to report

    120 species recorded in Murchison Falls National Park17 threatened

    Book Safari Experiences in Murchison Falls National Park

    Game drives, guided tours, and unique experiences in Murchison Falls National Park

    Uganda, the Pearl of Africa, truly shines during its dry seasons from June to August and December to February. These periods offer the most predictable weather, with sunny days perfect for tracking...

    January

    Now
    moderate

    Dry Season

    Expect warm, sunny days with minimal rainfall, making it ideal for outdoor activities. Evenings can be cooler, so pack layers.

    This is a fantastic time for game viewing as animals congregate around water sources. Birding is also excellent, though not at its peak.

    We love the clear skies for photography and the ease of tracking gorillas in the drier Bwindi.

    Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
    Queen Elizabeth National Park
    Murchison Falls National Park

    February

    moderate

    Dry Season

    Similar to January, February offers consistently dry and warm weather, perfect for exploring the parks. Humidity starts to increase slightly.

    Wildlife viewing remains superb, with predators often more visible. It's a great month for spotting lions in the northern parks.

    We recommend heading north to Murchison Falls for incredible game drives and boat trips on the Nile.

    Murchison Falls National Park
    Kibale National Park
    Queen Elizabeth National Park

    March

    low

    Short Rains

    The short rains begin, bringing occasional afternoon showers. Temperatures remain pleasant, and the landscape turns a vibrant green.

    The rains bring new life, with potential for baby animals. Birding starts to pick up as migratory birds arrive.

    We find the lush scenery after the first rains incredibly beautiful, and the lower crowds are a bonus for gorilla trekking.

    Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
    Kibale National Park
    Semuliki National Park

    April

    low

    Short Rains

    This is typically the wettest month, with frequent and sometimes heavy downpours. However, showers are often short-lived, and mornings can still be clear.

    The landscape is at its most verdant. While rain can make game drives challenging, it's excellent for birdwatchers and offers a unique, dramatic atmosphere.

    We love the dramatic skies and the feeling of having the parks almost to ourselves during this quieter period.

    Queen Elizabeth National Park
    Murchison Falls National Park
    Kidepo Valley National Park

    May

    low

    Short Rains

    The short rains taper off, with fewer showers and more sunshine. The vegetation is lush, and the air is fresh.

    Migratory birds are still present, and the landscape is stunning. It's a good time for primate tracking as the forest floor is less muddy.

    We think May offers a fantastic balance of good weather, lush scenery, and fewer tourists, especially for chimpanzee tracking.

    Kibale National Park
    Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
    Murchison Falls National Park

    June

    moderate

    Dry Season

    The dry season begins in earnest, with sunny days and cool evenings. Rainfall is minimal, making it ideal for all safari activities.

    Game viewing is excellent as animals concentrate around water. This is a prime time for gorilla trekking with good visibility.

    We love June for its perfect weather and the abundance of wildlife sightings, especially in the western parks.

    Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
    Queen Elizabeth National Park
    Murchison Falls National Park

    July

    high

    Dry Season

    July is one of the driest and coolest months, offering consistently clear skies and pleasant temperatures. Ideal for trekking and game drives.

    Wildlife viewing is at its peak. Animals are easily spotted against the dry landscape, and predator activity is often high.

    We find July to be one of the absolute best months for seeing gorillas and enjoying the vast savannas of Queen Elizabeth.

    Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
    Queen Elizabeth National Park
    Kidepo Valley National Park

    August

    high

    Dry Season

    Similar to July, August is dry and sunny with cool mornings and evenings. It's a prime safari month with excellent visibility.

    This is peak season for wildlife viewing. Expect to see large herds and active predators. Birding is good, but not as spectacular as during migration.

    We recommend August for its superb game viewing conditions and the chance to witness the dramatic landscapes of Kidepo.

    Kidepo Valley National Park
    Murchison Falls National Park
    Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

    September

    moderate

    Dry Season

    The dry season continues with sunny days and comfortable temperatures. Towards the end of the month, the first signs of the short rains may appear.

    Wildlife viewing remains excellent. It's a great time for birding as resident birds are active and the first migratory species start to arrive.

    We love September for the continued dry conditions and the start of the birding season, making it ideal for diverse safari experiences.

    Murchison Falls National Park
    Queen Elizabeth National Park
    Kibale National Park

    October

    moderate

    Short Rains

    The short rains typically begin in earnest, bringing afternoon showers. The landscape becomes greener, and temperatures are warm.

    The rains bring a resurgence of life to the vegetation. Birding is excellent with the arrival of many migratory species.

    We find October offers a beautiful, green landscape and fantastic birding opportunities, especially in the southern parks.

    Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
    Kibale National Park
    Semuliki National Park

    November

    low

    Short Rains

    The short rains continue, with intermittent showers common. The weather can be unpredictable, but there are still plenty of sunny periods.

    The landscape is lush and vibrant. Birding is at its absolute best with the peak of migratory bird activity.

    We recommend November for dedicated birdwatchers who want to experience Uganda's incredible avian diversity in a greener setting.

    Queen Elizabeth National Park
    Murchison Falls National Park
    Kibale National Park

    December

    peak

    Dry Season

    The short rains usually end by early December, leading into a drier period. Expect warm days and pleasant evenings, with increasing sunshine.

    Wildlife viewing improves as animals start to gather around water sources again. It's a popular time for family holidays.

    We love December for the return of dry weather and the festive atmosphere, making it a great time for family safaris.

    Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
    Murchison Falls National Park
    Queen Elizabeth National Park

    January

    Now
    moderate

    Dry Season

    Expect warm, sunny days with minimal rainfall, making it ideal for outdoor activities. Evenings can be cooler, so pack layers.

    This is a fantastic time for game viewing as animals congregate around water sources. Birding is also excellent, though not at its peak.

    We love the clear skies for photography and the ease of tracking gorillas in the drier Bwindi.

    Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
    Queen Elizabeth National Park
    Murchison Falls National Park

    February

    moderate

    Dry Season

    Similar to January, February offers consistently dry and warm weather, perfect for exploring the parks. Humidity starts to increase slightly.

    Wildlife viewing remains superb, with predators often more visible. It's a great month for spotting lions in the northern parks.

    We recommend heading north to Murchison Falls for incredible game drives and boat trips on the Nile.

    Murchison Falls National Park
    Kibale National Park
    Queen Elizabeth National Park

    March

    low

    Short Rains

    The short rains begin, bringing occasional afternoon showers. Temperatures remain pleasant, and the landscape turns a vibrant green.

    The rains bring new life, with potential for baby animals. Birding starts to pick up as migratory birds arrive.

    We find the lush scenery after the first rains incredibly beautiful, and the lower crowds are a bonus for gorilla trekking.

    Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
    Kibale National Park
    Semuliki National Park

    April

    low

    Short Rains

    This is typically the wettest month, with frequent and sometimes heavy downpours. However, showers are often short-lived, and mornings can still be clear.

    The landscape is at its most verdant. While rain can make game drives challenging, it's excellent for birdwatchers and offers a unique, dramatic atmosphere.

    We love the dramatic skies and the feeling of having the parks almost to ourselves during this quieter period.

    Queen Elizabeth National Park
    Murchison Falls National Park
    Kidepo Valley National Park

    May

    low

    Short Rains

    The short rains taper off, with fewer showers and more sunshine. The vegetation is lush, and the air is fresh.

    Migratory birds are still present, and the landscape is stunning. It's a good time for primate tracking as the forest floor is less muddy.

    We think May offers a fantastic balance of good weather, lush scenery, and fewer tourists, especially for chimpanzee tracking.

    Kibale National Park
    Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
    Murchison Falls National Park

    June

    moderate

    Dry Season

    The dry season begins in earnest, with sunny days and cool evenings. Rainfall is minimal, making it ideal for all safari activities.

    Game viewing is excellent as animals concentrate around water. This is a prime time for gorilla trekking with good visibility.

    We love June for its perfect weather and the abundance of wildlife sightings, especially in the western parks.

    Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
    Queen Elizabeth National Park
    Murchison Falls National Park

    July

    high

    Dry Season

    July is one of the driest and coolest months, offering consistently clear skies and pleasant temperatures. Ideal for trekking and game drives.

    Wildlife viewing is at its peak. Animals are easily spotted against the dry landscape, and predator activity is often high.

    We find July to be one of the absolute best months for seeing gorillas and enjoying the vast savannas of Queen Elizabeth.

    Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
    Queen Elizabeth National Park
    Kidepo Valley National Park

    August

    high

    Dry Season

    Similar to July, August is dry and sunny with cool mornings and evenings. It's a prime safari month with excellent visibility.

    This is peak season for wildlife viewing. Expect to see large herds and active predators. Birding is good, but not as spectacular as during migration.

    We recommend August for its superb game viewing conditions and the chance to witness the dramatic landscapes of Kidepo.

    Kidepo Valley National Park
    Murchison Falls National Park
    Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

    September

    moderate

    Dry Season

    The dry season continues with sunny days and comfortable temperatures. Towards the end of the month, the first signs of the short rains may appear.

    Wildlife viewing remains excellent. It's a great time for birding as resident birds are active and the first migratory species start to arrive.

    We love September for the continued dry conditions and the start of the birding season, making it ideal for diverse safari experiences.

    Murchison Falls National Park
    Queen Elizabeth National Park
    Kibale National Park

    October

    moderate

    Short Rains

    The short rains typically begin in earnest, bringing afternoon showers. The landscape becomes greener, and temperatures are warm.

    The rains bring a resurgence of life to the vegetation. Birding is excellent with the arrival of many migratory species.

    We find October offers a beautiful, green landscape and fantastic birding opportunities, especially in the southern parks.

    Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
    Kibale National Park
    Semuliki National Park

    November

    low

    Short Rains

    The short rains continue, with intermittent showers common. The weather can be unpredictable, but there are still plenty of sunny periods.

    The landscape is lush and vibrant. Birding is at its absolute best with the peak of migratory bird activity.

    We recommend November for dedicated birdwatchers who want to experience Uganda's incredible avian diversity in a greener setting.

    Queen Elizabeth National Park
    Murchison Falls National Park
    Kibale National Park

    December

    peak

    Dry Season

    The short rains usually end by early December, leading into a drier period. Expect warm days and pleasant evenings, with increasing sunshine.

    Wildlife viewing improves as animals start to gather around water sources again. It's a popular time for family holidays.

    We love December for the return of dry weather and the festive atmosphere, making it a great time for family safaris.

    Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
    Murchison Falls National Park
    Queen Elizabeth National Park

    January

    Now
    moderate

    Dry Season

    Expect warm, sunny days with minimal rainfall, making it ideal for outdoor activities. Evenings can be cooler, so pack layers.

    This is a fantastic time for game viewing as animals congregate around water sources. Birding is also excellent, though not at its peak.

    We love the clear skies for photography and the ease of tracking gorillas in the drier Bwindi.

    Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
    Queen Elizabeth National Park
    Murchison Falls National Park

    February

    moderate

    Dry Season

    Similar to January, February offers consistently dry and warm weather, perfect for exploring the parks. Humidity starts to increase slightly.

    Wildlife viewing remains superb, with predators often more visible. It's a great month for spotting lions in the northern parks.

    We recommend heading north to Murchison Falls for incredible game drives and boat trips on the Nile.

    Murchison Falls National Park
    Kibale National Park
    Queen Elizabeth National Park

    March

    low

    Short Rains

    The short rains begin, bringing occasional afternoon showers. Temperatures remain pleasant, and the landscape turns a vibrant green.

    The rains bring new life, with potential for baby animals. Birding starts to pick up as migratory birds arrive.

    We find the lush scenery after the first rains incredibly beautiful, and the lower crowds are a bonus for gorilla trekking.

    Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
    Kibale National Park
    Semuliki National Park

    April

    low

    Short Rains

    This is typically the wettest month, with frequent and sometimes heavy downpours. However, showers are often short-lived, and mornings can still be clear.

    The landscape is at its most verdant. While rain can make game drives challenging, it's excellent for birdwatchers and offers a unique, dramatic atmosphere.

    We love the dramatic skies and the feeling of having the parks almost to ourselves during this quieter period.

    Queen Elizabeth National Park
    Murchison Falls National Park
    Kidepo Valley National Park

    May

    low

    Short Rains

    The short rains taper off, with fewer showers and more sunshine. The vegetation is lush, and the air is fresh.

    Migratory birds are still present, and the landscape is stunning. It's a good time for primate tracking as the forest floor is less muddy.

    We think May offers a fantastic balance of good weather, lush scenery, and fewer tourists, especially for chimpanzee tracking.

    Kibale National Park
    Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
    Murchison Falls National Park

    June

    moderate

    Dry Season

    The dry season begins in earnest, with sunny days and cool evenings. Rainfall is minimal, making it ideal for all safari activities.

    Game viewing is excellent as animals concentrate around water. This is a prime time for gorilla trekking with good visibility.

    We love June for its perfect weather and the abundance of wildlife sightings, especially in the western parks.

    Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
    Queen Elizabeth National Park
    Murchison Falls National Park

    July

    high

    Dry Season

    July is one of the driest and coolest months, offering consistently clear skies and pleasant temperatures. Ideal for trekking and game drives.

    Wildlife viewing is at its peak. Animals are easily spotted against the dry landscape, and predator activity is often high.

    We find July to be one of the absolute best months for seeing gorillas and enjoying the vast savannas of Queen Elizabeth.

    Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
    Queen Elizabeth National Park
    Kidepo Valley National Park

    August

    high

    Dry Season

    Similar to July, August is dry and sunny with cool mornings and evenings. It's a prime safari month with excellent visibility.

    This is peak season for wildlife viewing. Expect to see large herds and active predators. Birding is good, but not as spectacular as during migration.

    We recommend August for its superb game viewing conditions and the chance to witness the dramatic landscapes of Kidepo.

    Kidepo Valley National Park
    Murchison Falls National Park
    Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

    September

    moderate

    Dry Season

    The dry season continues with sunny days and comfortable temperatures. Towards the end of the month, the first signs of the short rains may appear.

    Wildlife viewing remains excellent. It's a great time for birding as resident birds are active and the first migratory species start to arrive.

    We love September for the continued dry conditions and the start of the birding season, making it ideal for diverse safari experiences.

    Murchison Falls National Park
    Queen Elizabeth National Park
    Kibale National Park

    October

    moderate

    Short Rains

    The short rains typically begin in earnest, bringing afternoon showers. The landscape becomes greener, and temperatures are warm.

    The rains bring a resurgence of life to the vegetation. Birding is excellent with the arrival of many migratory species.

    We find October offers a beautiful, green landscape and fantastic birding opportunities, especially in the southern parks.

    Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
    Kibale National Park
    Semuliki National Park

    November

    low

    Short Rains

    The short rains continue, with intermittent showers common. The weather can be unpredictable, but there are still plenty of sunny periods.

    The landscape is lush and vibrant. Birding is at its absolute best with the peak of migratory bird activity.

    We recommend November for dedicated birdwatchers who want to experience Uganda's incredible avian diversity in a greener setting.

    Queen Elizabeth National Park
    Murchison Falls National Park
    Kibale National Park

    December

    peak

    Dry Season

    The short rains usually end by early December, leading into a drier period. Expect warm days and pleasant evenings, with increasing sunshine.

    Wildlife viewing improves as animals start to gather around water sources again. It's a popular time for family holidays.

    We love December for the return of dry weather and the festive atmosphere, making it a great time for family safaris.

    Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
    Murchison Falls National Park
    Queen Elizabeth National Park
    Planning & reference

    Murchison Falls is truly spectacular, where the mighty Nile explodes through a narrow gorge, creating an astonishing display of nature's power. We particularly love the boat trip to the base of the falls, offering unparalleled views and incredible wildlife sightings along the riverbanks, making it an unforgettable experience.

    Gate Times

    We find that Murchison Falls National Park generally operates from 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM daily. Entry permits are mandatory and we always recommend pre-booking these through a reputable tour operator to ensure a smooth entry. While gate times are consistent year-round, road conditions can vary seasonally, particularly during the wet months, so plan your travel accordingly.

    Tipping

    Tipping is customary and a thoughtful way to show appreciation for excellent service. For your dedicated safari guide, we recommend $15-25 per person per day. For general lodge or camp staff, a communal tip box is often available, and we suggest $5-10 per person per day. If you engage a park ranger for a specific activity like a guided walk, $5-10 per person per activity is appropriate. We advise tipping in US Dollars or Ugandan Shillings, preferably directly to the individual or into a clearly marked communal box.

    Dress Code

    For game drives and walks, we always recommend neutral colours like khaki, olive, brown, or grey to blend into the environment and avoid attracting unwanted attention from insects. Bright colours and camouflage patterns should be avoided. Layers are essential; mornings and evenings can be cool, while midday is often hot. Lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and trousers offer protection from the sun and insect bites. Comfortable, closed-toe walking shoes are a must, along with a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses.

    Photography

    Photography for personal use is generally permitted, and the opportunities here are sensational. We advise against using flash photography, especially at night or when photographing sensitive wildlife. Drone usage is strictly prohibited within the park without prior, difficult-to-obtain permits from the Uganda Wildlife Authority and the Civil Aviation Authority, so we do not recommend planning to use one. For incredible shots, bring a telephoto lens (300mm or more), plenty of spare batteries, and a beanbag for stability in the vehicle. Always protect your equipment from dust.

    Etiquette

    To ensure a respectful and rewarding safari experience, we adhere to a few key etiquette rules. Keep noise levels to a minimum on game drives; turn off phone ringers and speak softly. Always remain inside your safari vehicle unless your guide explicitly instructs you to disembark in a designated safe area. Never feed or attempt to attract the attention of wildlife; maintain a respectful distance. In camp, be mindful of other guests, especially during quiet hours, and conserve water and electricity.

    What to Bring

    High-quality binoculars
    Broad-spectrum sunscreen
    High-DEET insect repellent
    Wide-brimmed hat
    UV-protective sunglasses
    Lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and trousers
    Comfortable, closed-toe walking shoes
    Small daypack for daily essentials
    Camera with a telephoto lens and spare batteries
    Portable power bank/charger
    Personal first-aid kit (including anti-malarials)
    Copy of passport and visa

    Temperature

    25.96°C

    79°F · Range: 19.8–33.3°C

    Rainfall

    14.7 mm

    Dry season · 2 rainy days

    Humidity

    53.3%

    Sunshine

    11 hrs/day

    Wind Speed

    3.55 m/s

    12.8 km/h

    Based on 5 years of weather data · Data source: Open-Meteo Archive API

    Murchison Falls National Park Reviews