Uganda Murchison Falls National Park Travel Magnet

Murchison Falls National Park is Uganda’s largest protected area, covering approximately 3,893 square kilometres (1,503 square miles) in the northwestern region of the country . Established in 1952, the park is renowned for its dramatic namesake, Murchison Falls, where the Victoria Nile forces its way through a narrow gorge just 7 metres wide, plunging 43 metres into the river below . The park's diverse landscapes include savannahs, woodlands, and riverine forests, providing habitats for a rich array of wildlife. Wildlife enthusiasts can encounter over 70 mammal species and more than 450 bird species within the park . The park is home to four of Africa's "Big Five"—lions, elephants, buffaloes, and leopards—though leopards are rarely spotted . Additionally, Murchison Falls National Park is a sanctuary for the endangered Rothschild's giraffe, with approximately half of the world's population residing within the park . Birdwatchers can look forward to sightings of species such as the shoebill stork, Goliath heron, and the red-throated bee-eater . Visitors to the park can engage in various activities, including game drives, boat cruises on the Nile, and chimpanzee trekking in the nearby Budongo Forest . The park's rich biodiversity and stunning landscapes make it a premier destination for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.