Day 1 – Kampala to Murchison Falls National Park: Journey to the Heart of the Nile

Your journey begins early in the morning as you depart Kampala (or Entebbe) and drive northwest towards Murchison Falls. The scenic drive, roughly 5–6 hours, reveals Uganda’s changing countryside — lush green fields, roadside villages, and the occasional herd of long-horned Ankole cattle. On arrival at the park, you’ll enter through the southern gate and head straight to the top of the falls.

Here, you’ll stand in awe as the Nile forces its way through a narrow gorge, exploding into a thunderous cascade before plunging into the Devil’s Cauldron below. The mist rises, rainbows shimmer, and the power of nature is felt in every vibration of the ground beneath your feet. After taking in the views and capturing breathtaking photos, you’ll continue to your lodge for check-in, relaxation, and lunch.

In the late afternoon, you’ll embark on your first game drive across the northern savannah plains. This is the best time to see elephants, giraffes, buffaloes, and antelopes grazing in golden light. Lions are often spotted lurking near the herds, while leopards occasionally make their stealthy appearance. As the sun sets over the Nile, you’ll return to the lodge for dinner and a restful night surrounded by the sounds of the African wild.

Recommended Lodges:

• Luxury: Paraa Safari Lodge or Nile Safari Lodge

• Mid-range: Pakuba Safari Lodge or Fort Murchison Lodge

• Budget: Red Chilli Rest Camp or Heritage Safari Lodge

Day 2 – Morning Game Drive & Nile Launch Cruise: Nature in Motion

Rise early for a morning game drive as dawn paints the savannah in warm hues. This is the golden hour for wildlife — lions on the hunt, hyenas returning to their dens, and elephants crossing the open plains. The drive takes you deeper into the park’s ecosystem, offering superb opportunities for photography and an authentic feel of the African bush.

After breakfast, head to Paraa for one of the most scenic experiences in Uganda — the Nile launch cruise to the base of Murchison Falls. This slow boat ride along the river reveals a stunning concentration of wildlife. Hippos wallow in the shallows, crocodiles bask lazily on the riverbanks, and elephants gather for a drink. You’ll also spot countless bird species, including kingfishers, herons, and the iconic shoebill stork if you’re lucky.

The boat stops just a few meters from the thundering base of the falls, where the Nile rumbles and foams as it squeezes through the rock cleft above. It’s a perfect moment for photography and quiet reflection — nature’s beauty at its most powerful. After the cruise, you’ll have lunch before starting the scenic drive back to Kampala, arriving in the evening.