Uganda · Safari

3-Day Murchison Falls Safari with Rhino Tracking and Nile Cruise

3 Days Round trip from Uganda Moderate pace

The journey

Trip highlights

01 Track endangered rhinos at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary
02 Spot lions, elephants, giraffes, and leopards on guided game drives
03 Cruise along the Nile River to view hippos, crocodiles, and water birds
04 Visit the base and top of Murchison Falls for breathtaking views
05 Explore diverse birdlife, including the rare shoebill stork

Embark on a 3-day safari through Uganda's iconic Murchison Falls National Park. Begin your journey with rhino tracking at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, then explore the savannah on thrilling game drives where lions, elephants, giraffes, and leopards roam. Cruise along the Nile River to the base of the thunderous Murchison Falls and visit the top of the falls for sweeping views and photo opportunities. Along the way, look out for hippos, crocodiles, and diverse birdlife, including the rare shoebill stork.

Drive to the top of Murchison Falls to witness the Nile exploding through a 7-meter crevice and plunging 43 meters below.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 3 Days

Tour type Private

Activity level Moderate

Accommodation Included · Standard

Transport Included

Wheelchair access No

Cities Entebbe, Murchison Falls National Park, Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

Languages English, French, German

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Transfer to Murchison Falls via Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary

Meet your professional safari driver-guide upon arrival at Entebbe Airport or your hotel.
Begin the journey northwards to Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda's oldest and largest national park.
Stop en route at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary for an exciting one-hour guided rhino tracking experience.
Observe white rhinos in their natural habitat, completing the first of the Big Five encounters.
Continue the drive to the park, enjoying the changing landscapes along the way.
Arrive at the lodge, check in, and relax.
Admire scenic views of the Nile and possibly spot hippos or Nile crocodiles near the riverbanks.

Day 02

Game Drive and Nile Boat Cruise to the Bottom of the Falls

Depart for an early morning game drive after breakfast.
Explore the park's northern circuit in search of wildlife, including elephants, lions, giraffes, leopards, buffaloes, and antelopes.
Spot various bird species such as the shoebill stork, Abyssinian ground hornbill, and the dwarf kingfisher.
Return to the lodge for lunch and a short rest.
Embark on a thrilling afternoon boat cruise along the Nile River to the base of Murchison Falls.
Encounter hippos, crocodiles, and a range of aquatic birds, including kingfishers and fish eagles.
Marvel at the thunderous cascade where the Nile squeezes through a narrow gorge.
Return to the lodge for dinner and an overnight stay.

Day 03

Top of the Falls Visit and Return to Entebbe

Eat breakfast and check out from your lodge.
Drive to the top of Murchison Falls to witness the Nile exploding through a 7-meter crevice and plunging 43 meters below.
Experience the mist, sound, and rainbow often seen in the powerful spray.
Alternatively, choose to do a short transfer game drive to spot any missed wildlife sightings.
Begin the return journey to Entebbe, stopping for lunch en route.
Arrive in Entebbe in the evening, marking the end of your safari adventure.

Where this trip takes you

Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, Murchison Falls National Park savannah, Nile River boat cruise, Murchison Falls

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map — Round trip from Uganda 3 cities · 3 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

All accommodations (unless listed as an upgrade)
All transportation (unless labeled as optional)
Meals (as specified in the day-by-day section)
Drinks (as specified in the day-by-day section)
All activities (unless labeled as optional)
Park fees (for non-residents)
A professional driver/guide
Round-trip airport transfer
All taxes/VAT

What's Not Included

Additional accommodation before and after the tour
Personal items (souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees, etc.)
Government-imposed increases in taxes and/or park fees
Tips (tipping guideline: US$10.00 per person per day)
International flights (from/to home)

What to bring

Carry a valid passport with at least six months of validity and a Ugandan tourist visa, obtainable online or on arrival depending on your nationality.
Bring your Yellow Fever Vaccination Card, as it is mandatory for entry into Uganda.
Secure travel insurance covering medical emergencies and trip cancellations.
Keep printed and digital copies of your flight tickets and itinerary.
Prepare photocopies of all essential documents and store them separately from the originals.
Bring both credit or debit cards and some US dollars or local currency, and notify your bank before travel.
Pack lightweight, neutral-colored clothing, including long-sleeved shirts and trousers for sun and insect protection.
Include warm layers such as a fleece or jacket for chilly mornings and evenings.
Carry a waterproof jacket or poncho to stay dry during the rainy season.
Wear sturdy hiking boots or walking shoes and bring sandals for relaxing at the lodge.
Pack swimwear if your lodge has a swimming pool.
Use insect repellent containing DEET to protect against mosquitoes.
Apply high SPF sunscreen and lip balm for sun protection.
Bring all necessary personal medications, including malaria prophylaxis and prescription drugs.
Include a compact first aid kit with antiseptics, bandages, and anti-diarrheal medicine.
Use hand sanitizer and wet wipes for hygiene when water is unavailable.
Pack basic toiletries such as a toothbrush, toothpaste, soap, and shampoo.
Bring a camera or smartphone to capture wildlife and scenic views.
Carry binoculars for birdwatching and spotting distant animals.
Use a power bank to keep your devices charged during long days.
Pack a travel adapter for UK-style plugs (Type G) used in Uganda.
Bring a flashlight or headlamp for navigating areas with limited lighting.
Carry a daypack to hold your water, snacks, and essentials during excursions.
Use a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the day.
Pack high-energy snacks such as granola bars or trail mix for long outings.
Bring a journal or book for leisure and recording travel memories.
Store electronics or soiled clothes in zip-lock bags for extra protection.

Know before you go

Visit during the dry seasons from December to February or June to September for optimal wildlife viewing and better road conditions.
Travel by road from Kampala via Masindi, taking approximately 5 to 6 hours through the Kichumbanyobo or Mubako Gates.
Opt for charter flights from Entebbe or Kajjansi to Pakuba or Bugungu airstrips to reduce travel time to about 45 minutes.
Stay at Nile Safari Lodge for a luxury eco-friendly experience along the Nile.
Choose Pakuba Safari Lodge for a mid-range stay with comfortable rooms and wildlife views.
Book Red Chilli Rest Camp for budget-friendly accommodation popular among backpackers.
Go on game drives in the northern savannah to spot elephants, giraffes, lions, and other wildlife.
Take boat safaris on the Nile to see hippos, crocodiles, and water birds, ending at the base of the falls.
Hike to the top of Murchison Falls to witness the Nile squeeze through a narrow gorge with panoramic views.
Trek chimpanzees in Budongo Forest and observe them in their natural habitat.
Pack light, breathable clothing for daytime and warm layers for cooler evenings.
Carry insect repellent to protect against mosquitoes and tsetse flies.
Use sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses for protection from the sun.
Wear comfortable walking shoes for hikes and game drives.
Bring binoculars and a camera with extra batteries to capture memorable wildlife moments.
Pack a flashlight or headlamp due to limited lighting in some lodges.
Maintain a safe distance from wildlife and follow all guide instructions.
Drink bottled water and consider taking malaria prophylaxis before traveling.
Expect limited internet and mobile network coverage and inform loved ones in advance.
Respect local customs and traditions, and engage with local guides to enhance your experience.