3 Day Gorilla Trekking Tour in Uganda
Safari Overview
3 Day Safari To Murchison Falls National Park
This 3-day safari takes you to Murchison Falls National Park, the most wildlife-rich park in Uganda. It is home to many animals, birds, and beautiful landscapes. The River Nile flows through the park and creates one of the most powerful waterfalls in the world — Murchison Falls. This is one of the most amazing sights on the Nile’s long journey from Lake Victoria to the Mediterranean Sea.
On the first day, you will drive from Kampala or Entebbe to the park. You’ll visit the top of the falls and feel the ground shake as the Nile forces itself through a narrow gap and plunges 45 meters into the “Devil’s Cauldron” with great power. You will spend the night in a comfortable lodge or enjoy bush camping in the wild. On day two, you will go for a morning game drive to look for animals like elephants, giraffes, lions, leopards, hyenas, Uganda Kobs, and buffaloes. In the afternoon, you will take a relaxing boat trip along the Nile to see hippos, crocodiles, elephants, and many birds, like the rare shoebill stork.
On the last day, you will visit Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, the only place in Uganda where you can see rhinos in the wild. After this, you’ll return to Kampala or Entebbe. This short safari is full of adventure, nature, and amazing wildlife — perfect for anyone who wants to enjoy the best of Uganda in just three days.
Trip highlights
- Walk at the top of Murchison Falls
- Boat cruise along the Nile to the base of the falls
- Game drives spotting elephants, lions, giraffes, and more
- Rhino tracking walk at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary
- Optional bush camping experience in the wilderness
What's included
- Park entrance fees
- All mentioned activities (unless marked optional)
- Accommodation (as listed in the itinerary)
- Professional English-speaking guide/driver
- Ground transport in a 4x4 safari vehicle
- All taxes and VAT
- Meals as specified in the day-by-day itinerary
3 Days Murchison Falls Safari Itinerary
Day By Day
Day 1: Transfer to Murchison Falls. Top of the falls Visit & Game drive.
After a short briefing about your exciting 3-day Murchison Falls safari, you will set off on a scenic 5 to 6-hour drive northwest to Murchison Falls National Park. Once you arrive, you will immediately embark on a spectacular walk at the top of the falls. Here, you will witness the mighty Nile River — about 50 meters wide — being forced through a narrow gap just seven meters wide. Over 360,000 liters of water crash through every second, making Murchison Falls one of the most powerful waterfalls on Earth. The roar and spray of the falls are truly unforgettable, and you will understand why this is considered one of the greatest natural wonders on the Nile’s long journey from Lake Victoria all the way to the Mediterranean Sea.
After soaking in these breathtaking views, your safari continues with an exciting game drive through the park’s rich savanna plains. Murchison Falls National Park is Uganda’s largest game reserve and is beautifully split by the mighty Nile. The landscape changes from dense, green rainforest in the hilly southwest to wide open savannas in the northwest, making it one of the greenest parks in Africa. On your game drive, keep an eye out for elephants, giraffes, lions, buffaloes, and many other animals that call this diverse park home.
In the late afternoon, you will check into your lodge, where you can relax while enjoying stunning views and the peaceful sounds of wildlife. For those seeking a more adventurous experience, there is the option to stay overnight at a bush camp deep in the wilderness near the Lake Albert delta. This “ultimate bush experience” offers professional camping gear and the chance to sleep under the stars, with an armed ranger, guide, and cook to ensure your safety and comfort. As night falls, listen to the calls of hyenas and watch hippos emerge from the river — a perfect ending to an incredible day in the wild.
Accommodation Options:
Simple: Fort Murchison – Lazy Camping
Middle class: Murchison River Lodge – thatched tents
Semi-luxury: Murchison River Lodge – Cottage
Luxury: Paraa Safari Lodge
Exclusive: Nile Safari Lodge
Day 2: Morning Game Drive and a Boat Cruise along the Nile
Today is all about discovering the rich wildlife and stunning natural beauty of Murchison Falls National Park. Your day starts early with an exciting game drive, followed by a relaxing and scenic boat cruise along the Nile River in the afternoon. Throughout the day, you will have the chance to see a variety of animals and birds in their natural habitat.
Morning Game Drive
After an early breakfast, you’ll head to the delta for your morning safari. The rising sun and cool morning air create the perfect atmosphere for spotting wildlife across the open savanna plains. Along the way, you’ll stop at the Nile River, where hundreds of hippos can often be seen basking in the warm sun. This is also a great opportunity to spot elephants, giraffes, buffaloes, and many other animals that live in the park.
Afternoon Boat Safari on the Nile
In the afternoon, you will embark on a fantastic boat cruise along the mighty Nile. As you slowly glide downstream, keep your eyes peeled for crocodiles, hippos, buffalo, and playful monkeys. Monkeys often warn each other of your approach, while water birds busily fish in the river. It is common to see elephants and other wildlife coming to the riverbanks to drink and cool off. Your journey will take you all the way to the base of the famous 40-meter-high Murchison Falls, where the powerful river squeezes through a narrow gorge before plunging down with incredible force. The boat ride lasts about three hours. For the best views, we recommend sitting on the left side of the boat, as you will be cruising along the left bank.
Optional Private Boat Safari
For a more intimate experience, you can choose to book a private boat safari. This smaller boat allows you to get closer to the wildlife and gives you the freedom to set your own pace. Sharing this special journey exclusively with your group makes the experience even more memorable. At the end of the day, you will be taken back to your accommodation to relax and prepare for the next day’s adventures.
Accommodation Options:
Simple: Fort Murchison – Lazy Camping
Middle class: Murchison River Lodge – thatched tents
Semi-luxury: Murchison River Lodge – Cottage
Luxury: Paraa Safari Lodge
Exclusive: Nile Safari Lodge
Day 3: Visit Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary & Return to Kampala/Entebbe.
After breakfast, you will begin your journey back to Kampala or Entebbe with a morning game drive through the beautiful landscapes of Murchison Falls National Park. Along the way, you will visit Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, Uganda’s only place where you can see rhinos living in the wild.
At Ziwa, you will take part in a special rhino tracking walk on foot, guided by experienced rangers. This is a unique chance to see these rare and endangered white rhinos up close while learning about the important work being done to protect them. The sanctuary plays a vital role in saving rhinos from extinction by providing a safe home and helping to increase their numbers. Your visit and participation in rhino tracking help raise funds that support ongoing conservation efforts, anti-poaching patrols, and community education programs around the sanctuary.
After the rhino walk, enjoy a delicious lunch at the sanctuary’s peaceful rest area, soaking in the beautiful surroundings. Then, continue your drive back to Kampala or Entebbe, arriving in the late afternoon or early evening. This marks the end of your unforgettable 3-day safari, having contributed directly to saving one of Uganda’s most endangered animals.
Accommodation: Not Included
Included Meals
- Breakfast
- Diner
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