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3 Days Murchison Falls National Park Safari
3 Days Murchison Falls Safari: Big 5 & Chimpanzee Trekking Adventure
This 3-day safari showcases the best of Uganda’s iconic wildlife and landscapes, centered around the spectacular Murchison Falls National Park — the country’s largest and one of its most diverse protected areas. Your adventure begins with a transfer from Kampala or Entebbe, stopping at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary for a unique walking safari with rhinos, a rare and thrilling opportunity to see these endangered creatures up close.
At Murchison Falls, you’ll explore a variety of habitats, from lush savannahs to riverine forests. Early morning game drives reveal sightings of Cape buffaloes, lions, leopards, elephants, and the endangered Rothschild’s giraffe. The afternoon boat cruise along the Victoria Nile offers a relaxing perspective on the falls and its abundant wildlife, including hippos, crocodiles, and numerous bird species like the African fish eagle and kingfishers.
On the final day, the journey continues to Budongo Forest, a lesser-known but biologically rich rainforest. Guided chimpanzee trekking offers up to three hours to observe these fascinating primates interacting in their natural environment. The trek is challenging but rewarding, providing an intimate wildlife encounter and photographic opportunities.
Throughout the safari, you’ll stay at comfortable lodges with options ranging from luxury to mid-range, all designed to immerse you in the wild beauty surrounding you. With expert guides, well-planned logistics, and included permits and park fees, this itinerary is perfect for travelers who want to experience Uganda’s top wildlife attractions efficiently and memorably.
Overview
Discover Uganda’s stunning wilderness and wildlife highlights in just three days on this thrilling safari to Murchison Falls National Park and Budongo Forest. Witness the awe-inspiring power of the Nile plunging through a narrow gorge at Murchison Falls, embark on exhilarating game drives in search of the Big 5 and rare species like Rothschild’s giraffe, and enjoy a serene boat cruise spotting hippos, crocodiles, and abundant birdlife. Complementing your Murchison experience is a chimpanzee trekking adventure in Budongo Forest, where you’ll track and observe wild chimpanzees in their natural rainforest habitat. This perfectly balanced itinerary blends adventure, wildlife, and culture, offering travelers a compact but unforgettable taste of Uganda’s natural beauty and biodiversity. Ideal for travelers with limited time, this safari combines luxury or mid-range accommodations with expert guides to ensure a seamless and memorable experience.
Tour Highlights
- Game drives with chances to spot the Big 5 and rare species
- Scenic boat cruise to the base of Murchison Falls
- Walking safari with rhinos at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary
- Chimpanzee trekking in Budongo Forest
- Comfortable accommodation options inside Murchison Falls NP
- Expert guides and all-inclusive park fees and permits
Day by Day Itinerary
Day 1: Transfer to Murchison Falls NP via Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary
Get ready for an unforgettable adventure as you’re picked up from your hotel in Kampala/Entebbe and transferred to Murchison Falls National Park. Along the way, stop at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary for a guided rhino walking safari, where you’ll get up close to these magnificent creatures. Then, head to the top of the mighty Murchison Falls, where the Nile forces its way through a narrow 7-meter gorge, plunging 45 meters below in a thunderous cascade. After taking in this awe-inspiring view, check in to your lodge inside the park for a relaxing evening.
Accommodation:
Luxury: Paraa Safari Lodge
Mid-range: Pakuba Safari Lodge
Meal plan: Lunch & Dinner
Day 2: Morning Game Viewing & Afternoon Boat Cruise
Start your day with an early breakfast before heading out for an exciting morning game drive in Murchison Falls National Park. Keep your eyes peeled for Cape buffaloes, Rothschild’s giraffes, Jackson’s hartebeests, and a variety of antelope like oribi and bushbuck. The park’s predators, including lions, leopards, and spotted hyenas, may also make an appearance. After an exhilarating drive, return to your lodge for some relaxation. In the afternoon, embark on a scenic boat trip along the Victoria Nile to the base of Murchison Falls. Along the way, marvel at hippos and crocodiles lounging on the shores, and enjoy spotting a variety of vibrant bird species. The views at the falls are simply breathtaking!
Accommodation:
Luxury: Paraa Safari Lodge
Mid-range: Pakuba Safari Lodge
Meal plan: Full board
Day 3: Chimpanzee Trekking & Transfer - Entebbe or Kampala
After a delicious breakfast, check out and embark on a memorable journey to Budongo Forest for an exhilarating chimpanzee trekking experience. Spend up to 3 hours trekking through the forest, encountering these playful primates in their natural habitat. As your adventure at Murchison Falls National Park comes to an end, depart with unforgettable memories. Enjoy a lunch stop en route before being dropped off at your chosen destination, whether it's the airport, your hotel, or home.
Accommodation: N/A
Meal plan: Half board
Price Includes
- Park fees (For non-residents)
- Chimp permits (One per person, non-resident)
- All activities (Unless labeled as optional)
- All accommodation (Unless listed as upgrade)
- A professional driver/guide
- All transportation (Unless labeled as optional)
- All Taxes/VAT
- Roundtrip airport transfer
- Meals (As specified in the day-by-day section)
- Drinking water (On all days)
- Emergency Evacuation Cover
Price Excludes
- International flights (From/to home)
- Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour
- Tips (Tipping guideline US$10.00 pp per day)
- Personal items (Souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees, etc.)
- Government imposed increase of taxes and/or park fees
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Tour: 3 Days Murchison Falls National Park Safari
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