Top Activities in Murchison Falls National Park with us

Day and Night Game Drives: Game drives in Murchison Falls are the perfect way to witness Uganda’s most iconic wildlife in their natural habitat. Our day game drives offer spectacular opportunities to spot elephants, lions, giraffes, buffalo, Uganda kobs, and many more species across the savannah plains. Our night game drives are an exciting adventure for those looking to experience the park after dark. With specialized spotlights and expert ranger guides, you’ll have the chance to spot elusive nocturnal animals like: Leopards, Hyenas, Bush babies, Genets, Porcupines Both drives are led by experienced Pamoja Safaris guides who share fascinating insights into animal behavior and the park's ecosystem.

Game Drives in Murchison Falls National Park – The Ultimate Wildlife Safari Experience in Uganda

Game drives in Murchison Falls National Park are among the most thrilling safari activities in Uganda. This vast savannah park offers unmatched opportunities to encounter iconic African wildlife in their natural habitat. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, a safari drive through Murchison Falls promises unforgettable sightings and serene landscapes.

Why Choose Murchison Falls for Game Drives?

Murchison Falls National Park is Uganda’s largest and oldest conservation area, renowned for its diverse wildlife and scenic beauty. The park’s northern sector, with expansive savannah grasslands and acacia woodlands, boasts the highest concentration of game. This makes it ideal for spotting Elephants, Lions, Leopards, Giraffes, Buffaloes, Uganda Kobs, Warthogs, and other magnificent animals.

The southern sector, often referred to as the “Heart of Murchison,” is more forested and home to primates, antelopes, and recently reintroduced Giraffes.

Types of Game Drives in Murchison Falls National Park

Visitors can enjoy two main types of game drives:

1. Guided Safari Game Drives

Led by professional rangers or driver-guides, guided game drives offer the most comprehensive experience. These experts understand animal behavior and know the best spots for sightings.

Benefits:

• No driving—just relax and enjoy.
• Guides communicate via walkie-talkies to share rare sightings.
• Rich insight into wildlife and local culture.
• Ideal for families, groups, or solo travelers.

You can also request private game drives for a more intimate wildlife experience.

2. Self-Game Drives

For the adventurous traveler, self-drive safaris offer freedom and flexibility. Tourists use rented vehicles to explore the park at their own pace.

Pros:

• Set your own schedule.
• Tailor the drive to your interests—whether it's birding or big game.
• Great for photographers who want extended time with specific species.

Challenges:

• Difficult to locate animals without expert guidance.
• Risk of getting stuck on rough trails.
• Limited access during bad weather or night hours.
• An armed ranger escort is required for safety.

Where to Go for Game Drives in Murchison Falls National Park

Game drives take place in both the Northern and Southern sectors, with several game-viewing tracks to explore:

1. Buligi Peninsula & Delta Game Viewing Circuit

• Located between the Victoria Nile and Albert Nile.
• Best-known track for wildlife enthusiasts.
• Common sightings: Elephants, Buffaloes, Lions, Giraffes, Uganda Kobs, and Warthogs.
• Bird species: Secretary Birds, Denham’s Bustards, Nubian Woodpeckers, and Palm-nut Vultures.
• The Delta Circuit often reveals Hippos and large Giraffe herds—sometimes 50+ individuals.

2. Victoria Nile Track (17km)

• Connects Buligi and Queen’s Tracks.
• Excellent for spotting lionesses and cubs, especially during calving season.
• Also good for viewing Elephants, Hartebeests, and Uganda Kobs.

3. Queen’s Track (10km)

• Short but highly productive.
• Ideal for sighting Lions, Giraffes, Buffaloes, and Hartebeests.
• Notable birds: Swallow-tailed, Carmine, and Red-throated Bee-eaters.

4. Pakuba Track

• Connects to the Albert Nile and Tangi Gate.
• Common area for Leopards and tree-climbing Lions near Pakuba Safari Lodge.
• Convenient access for guests staying outside the park or flying in via Pakuba Airstrip.

5. Tebito Track

• Links the Wankar Gate and Chobe Track.
• Less crowded but still rewarding.
• Notable bird sightings: African Quail Finch, Blue-headed Coucal, Black-billed Barbet.

6. Chobe Track (67km)

• Connects Chobe Safari Lodge to Karuma Falls.
• Frequent sightings: Olive Baboons, Buffaloes, and Elephants.
• Scenic drive along the Nile with occasional rare wildlife.

What to Carry for Game Drives

Whether on a guided or self-drive safari, remember to pack:

• Binoculars and a good camera
• A GPS or updated map (especially for self-drives)
• A working mobile phone with a local SIM
• Light snacks and plenty of drinking water
• Insect repellent and sun protection

When to Go for Game Drives in Murchison Falls

Game drives are best conducted:

• Early morning (6:00 am – 10:00 am): For predators and grazers.
• Late afternoon (4:00 pm – 7:00 pm): For big cats and cooler weather.

Night game drives are only allowed with UWA rangers and not open to self-drivers

Sport Fishing (Half & Full Day Excursions):

For fishing enthusiasts, Murchison Falls National Park is a dream destination. The Nile River is home to some of Africa’s largest freshwater fish, including:

• Nile perch (weighing up to 100 kg!)
• Catfish
• Tiger fish
• Tilapia

At Pamoja Safaris, we offer both half-day and full-day sport fishing experiences, complete with quality fishing gear, safety equipment, and professional guides. Whether you're a seasoned angler or trying it for the first time, the thrill of battling a giant Nile perch below the falls is unbeatable.

Chimpanzee Tracking in Budongo Forest Reserve:

Located on the southern fringe of Murchison Falls National Park, Budongo Forest is a biodiversity hotspot and home to one of the largest populations of chimpanzees in Uganda. With Pamoja Safaris, you can embark on a thrilling chimpanzee tracking experience, guided by expert rangers and trackers through lush tropical forest.

Along the way, you'll also spot other primates, birds, and fascinating plant species. It’s an inspiring, educational, and humbling experience to observe our closest relatives in the wild

Waterfall Boat Cruise to the Base of Murchison Falls:

No visit to Murchison Falls is complete without the iconic boat cruise to the base of the falls. This leisurely cruise up the Nile reveals stunning scenery and abundant wildlife, including:

• Hippos and crocodiles
• Waterbucks and buffaloes
• Numerous bird species

As you approach the base of the falls, the thunderous roar and rising mist offer a spectacular conclusion to the trip. The boats are spacious, safe, and guided by knowledgeable naturalists who make the journey both educational and entertaining.