How to get to Murchison falls National park?
How to get to Murchison falls National park, Murchison Falls National Park, located in northwestern Uganda, spans approximately 3,893 square kilometers. Known for its diverse landscapes, including savannah grasslands and woodland forests, the park is famous for the stunning Murchison Falls where the Nile River plunges through a narrow gorge. It hosts a wide array of wildlife, including the “Big Five,” along with giraffes, hippos, crocodiles, and various bird species, including the rare shoebill stork. Visitors can enjoy activities such as game drives, boat safaris, and chimpanzee tracking in the nearby Budongo Forest Reserve.
Here’s how you can get there:
By Air:
The nearest airport to Murchison Falls National Park is the Pakuba Airfield, which is a small airstrip located within the park. You can fly into Pakuba Airfield from Entebbe International Airport or other domestic airports in Uganda. Charter flights are available from Entebbe to Pakuba using Aerolink.
By Road:
If you’re traveling by road, you can either hire a private vehicle or use public transport. From Kampala (the capital city of Uganda), you can drive to the Park. The journey takes approximately 4-5 hours, covering a distance of about 305 kilometers (190 miles). The route typically passes through Masindi town.
However, this Park in Uganda has several gates or entrances, primarily used for accessing different sections of the park.
The main gates include:
Kichumbanyobo Gate (Main Gate):
Located in the southern part of the park.
This gate is accessed via the Masindi-Paraa Road.
It’s the main entrance to the park for visitors coming from Masindi or Kampala.
At Kichumbanyobo Gate, visitors can pay park fees, obtain permits, and get information about the park.
Wankwar Gate:
Located in the northern part of the park.
Accessible via the Karuma-Pakwach Road.
This gate provides entry to the park for visitors coming from the direction of Pakwach or Gulu.
Bugungu Gate:
Also situated in the northern section of the park.
Accessible via the Buliisa-Butiaba-Wanseko Road.
Provides access to the Budongo Forest Reserve, which is part of the Park.
Chobe Gate:
Found in the northeastern part of the park.
Provides access to the Chobe Safari Lodge and Chobe area within the park.
This gate is typically used by visitors staying at Chobe Safari Lodge or exploring the Chobe area.
Regardless of the mode of transportation you choose, it’s recommended to check road conditions and make necessary arrangements in advance, especially if you’re traveling independently. Additionally, it’s advisable to obtain information about park fees and regulations before your visit.
Meanwhile, Here’s a detailed route to Murchison Falls National Park from Kampala:
Start in Kampala, the capital city of Uganda. Continue on the Kampala-Gulu Highway until you reach Kafu Bridge. This bridge is located near the town of Nakitoma.
At Kafu Bridge, turn right onto the Masindi-Paraa Road. There should be signs indicating the direction towards Masindi and Murchison Falls National Park. Follow the Masindi-Paraa Road towards Masindi town. This road will take you through rural landscapes and villages.
Upon reaching Masindi, you’ll enter the town center. Continue straight through Masindi town, following signs for Murchison Falls National Park. After passing through Masindi, you’ll continue on the same road towards Paraa, the main tourism hub of Murchison Falls National Park.
Keep following the road until you reach the entrance gate of the Park. This is where you’ll pay park fees and register before entering the park.