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Murchison Falls National Park: The World’s Most Powerful Waterfall

Location: Masindi, Uganda
Size: 3,840 km²
Altitude: 127 m

Entry Fees:

  • Foreign Non-Residents (FNR): USD $45
  • Foreign Residents (FR): USD $35
  • East African Citizens (EAC): UGX 25,000

About the Park

Overview
Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda’s largest and oldest protected area, was established as a game reserve in 1926 and became a national park in 1952. Located at the northern end of the Albertine Rift Valley, the park is renowned for its dramatic landscapes and diverse ecosystems.

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The Mighty Murchison Falls
The park’s centerpiece is the spectacular Murchison Falls, where the Nile River forces its way through an 8-meter-wide gorge and plunges 45 meters into the “Devil’s Cauldron.” This thunderous cascade creates a powerful display of water and mist, often adorned with a radiant rainbow. The river’s final stretch transforms into a tranquil flow that meanders across the rift valley floor into Lake Albert.

Diverse Ecosystems

  • Northern Sector: Characterized by savanna dotted with Borassus palms, acacia trees, and riverine woodland.
  • Southern Sector: Dominated by woodland and forest patches.

Wildlife and Birdwatching

  • Mammals: Home to over 144 mammal species, including large populations of African elephants (with more than 1,300 individuals), giraffes (primarily in the northern sector), buffaloes (over 10,000), and Uganda kobs (over 35,000).
  • Birds: Hosts 556 bird species, with the shoebill being a notable resident along the river stretch near the Albert Delta. Other notable species include the white-crested turaco and the red-winged grey warbler.
  • Reptiles and Amphibians: Contains 51 species each of reptiles and amphibians, including Nile crocodiles.

Cultural and Historical Significance
Murchison Falls has attracted many notable visitors, including Winston Churchill, Theodore Roosevelt, Ernest Hemingway, and several British royals. The park’s dramatic landscapes and rich wildlife have made it a beloved destination for nature enthusiasts and adventurers alike.

Filming Location
The park gained international fame as the filming location for the 1951 classic film “The African Queen,” starring Humphrey Bogart.

Conservation and Sustainability
Murchison Falls National Park exemplifies Uganda’s commitment to environmental stewardship. The park adheres to sustainable management practices that protect its biodiversity and natural habitats, ensuring that its landscapes remain pristine and resilient against climate change.

Green Parks Initiative
Uganda’s national parks and reserves, including Murchison Falls, are dedicated to preserving natural environments and promoting climate-friendly practices. Our goal is to maintain the beauty and health of these landscapes for future generations.

Murchison Falls National Park is a true natural wonder, offering unparalleled experiences amidst some of Africa’s most breathtaking landscapes and wildlife.