The Roar of Murchison Falls in Murchison Falls National Park

The Roar of Murchison Falls: Among the breathtaking adventure activities that contribute to Murchison Falls National Park’s fame is a trek to the top of the waterfalls. Visitors from all over the world are drawn to this place for this enchanted experience to see the strongest waterfalls on the planet. In Murchison Falls National Park, this activity is always combined with wildlife tours and gives guests an excellent opportunity to see the world’s most magnificent and potent waterfalls.

These unusual falls are located in the Nywoya district of Murchison Falls National Park, which covers the districts of Nywoya, Kiryandongo, Masindi, and Buliisa in northwestern Uganda. As a reference to Sir Roderick Murchison, who was then the president of their Royal Geographical Society, the name Murchison Falls was given to these beautiful falls by the first explorers under the leadership of Sir Samuel Baker.

Hiking to the top of Murchison Falls

After the boat ride from Paraa, the hiking trek from the base of the falls to the summit takes roughly 45 minutes, especially for those who want to explore the base of the falls and its aquatic and wildlife species. The boat ride from Paraa to the base of the falls takes roughly 2 to 3 hours. During this time, visitors can see hippos, crocodiles, monitor lizards, and varied bird species, including the African Darter, Pied Kingfisher, African Fish Eagle, Saddle-billed Stork, Malachite Kingfisher, Goliath Heron, African Jacana, and Cormorants.

Visitors can see a variety of animals along the riverbanks, particularly in the afternoons when these animals have come to drink water. This is very common, especially during the dry season. Species to see include waterbucks, topis, elephants, Uganda Kobs, buffaloes, and many other animals as they surface to quench their thirst.  The cost for the boat cruise stands at a cost of $30, and for citizens of East Africa, UGX 30,000.

Following the roar of Murchison Falls, travellers can still explore the falls’ bottom as they capture captivating photos and videos while admiring the tumbling, forceful waterfalls. Another alternative trail to ascend the falls is available from this location for those who would want to start their journey at the bottom. As they hike through the dense jungle, they will encounter a variety of mammals, including several monkey species and bird species.

This hike varies from 45 minutes to almost an hour, depending on the trekker’s pace and the nature of the terrain. You can pose for photos and videos beside the fence or enjoy a clear view from the rocky surfaces once you reach the top of the falls. Your site ranger guide will give you all the facts you need to understand how these amazing waters formed and where they came from.  You will be able to see the amazing speed of these waterfalls as they produce a roaring sound as they plunge 43 metres down into a tiny 7-meter granite valley. A rainbow will be seen over the hazy waters of the Nile River, revealing the splendour of the natural world to visitors.

It can be a bit costly to hike to the top of the falls from the boat cruise along the bottom, but there is another way to see the top of the falls by using a safari vehicle. From there, visitors can follow the trail or take the road to the top of the falls to see these amazing water views. In particular, visitors should wear waterproof shoes, long-sleeved shirts and pants, a trimmed hat, a rain jacket, a pair of binoculars, waterproof hiking shoes, drinking water, a camera, energy-boosting snacks, a waterproof backpack, and insect repellent.

What is the cost of hiking to the top of the falls in Murchison Falls National falls?

Following the roar of Murchison Falls, it costs $15 for foreign visitors, $10 for foreign residents, and UGX10,000 for East African citizens to hike to the top of the park’s falls. This price covers the cost of hiring armed ranger guides to protect tourists from potentially dangerous wild animals and to provide information on the expansive Murchison Falls National Park and spectacular waterfalls.

Other things to do in the Park?

Since hiking is always an alternative in Murchison Falls National Park, most visitors expect to spend more time on wildlife safaris than hiking. But your tour operator also incorporates it with wildlife adventure activities like game drives, where a variety of animals can be seen, mostly in the park’s northern region. Chimpanzee trekking, Sportfishing, boat cruises, nature hikes, birdwatching, and cultural exchanges are among other activities.

Accommodation in Murchison Falls National Park

Accommodation to use while in the park includes Murchison Tree House, Fort Murchison Safari Lodge, Nile Safari Lodge, Paraa Safari Lodge, Twiga Safari Lodge, Amuka Safari Lodge, Sambiya River Lodge, Murchison River Lodge, Chobe Safari Lodge, Kabalega Wilderness, Red Chill Rest Camp, Budongo Eco Lodge, Heritage Safari Lodge, Pakuba Safari Lodge, Nile Safari Lodge, and others. These facilities also offer luxury, mid-range, and affordable options.

Best time to visit the Park

Although there are many reasons to visit the park all year long, some months seem to be better than others. During the dry months of June through September and December through February, Murchison Falls National Park is at its best.  During the dry season, the roads are always dry due to the scanty rains that lead to sparse vegetation and clear views of wildlife species. The park’s roads are consistently dry and in good shape during this dry season, making access simple.

Following the roar of Murchison Falls, the park can still be accessed during the rainy season, which is characterised by heavy rains and fewer crowds. Most Lodges during this period offer discounts to travellers as a way of attracting them, hence making it a favourable season for budget travellers.

More still, the rainy season is also good for birdwatchers since this is the time when birds are more active, especially during the nesting season, which is characterised by plenty of food and green vegetation cover. However, the roads are always muddy, slick, and slippery, making it hard to access some of the trekking trails, and wildlife viewing becomes hard due to the thick and tall vegetation.