Domestic Flights To Murchison Falls National Park

Domestic Flights To Murchison Falls National Park,  Are you planning a trip to Murchison Falls National Park and considering flying to save time and enjoy a scenic view from the sky? Flying to this popular safari destination is not only possible but also convenient. Several airline companies offer scheduled flights to Murchison Falls National Park, making air travel a fast and comfortable option for visitors who prefer to skip the long road journey.

Murchison Falls National Park lies in the northwestern region of Uganda. It is the country’s largest national park and is home to the mighty Murchison Falls, where the River Nile squeezes through a narrow gorge and drops with great force. The park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including over 76 mammal species, 13 types of primates, and more than 460 bird species.

Airstrips Inside Murchison Falls National Park

There are three main airstrips that serve Murchison Falls National Park. These are:

• Pakuba Airstrip – located in the northern section of the park
• Chobe Airstrip – located close to Chobe Safari Lodge on the park’s eastern side.
• Bugungu Airstrip – located in the southern section of the park

These airstrips provide access to different parts of the park, making it easier for travelers to reach their lodges or start their safari activities without long transfers by road.

Domestic Flights to Murchison Falls National Park

Flights to Murchison Falls are operated by local airline companies such as Bar Aviation Uganda, Aerolink Uganda, and Fly Uganda. These carriers offer scheduled flights once a day from either Entebbe International Airport or Kajjansi Airstrip. The flight usually departs around 12:00 PM and lands at one of the park’s airstrips by 1:00 PM.

The flight takes about one hour, which is a much shorter journey compared to the 5–6 hours it takes by road. Once you land, a driver guide from your tour company or lodge will pick you up and transfer you to your accommodation or straight into the park for your first activity.

Booking a Domestic Flights to Murchison Falls National Park

If you would like to travel by air, it is important to make your booking early. Contact your tour operator or the airline company with your travel dates. Tour operators usually have access to better rates and can help you organize your entire trip, including transfers and accommodation.

When booking directly, provide the airline with your travel dates and preferred departure location (either Entebbe or Kajjansi). After your seat is confirmed, you will be provided with the payment information. After payment is made and confirmed, your seat will be officially reserved. Always book in advance, especially during the high travel season, to secure a spot.

You can fly to Murchison Falls at any time of the year, but the dry seasons are generally the best for air travel and safari activities. These occur from June to September and December to February. During this time, flights are rarely delayed, roads in the park are dry and passable, and animals gather around water sources, making them easier to see.

The rainy seasons from March to May and October to November can still be a good time for a safari, especially for birdwatchers, as the park is green and filled with life. However, during these months, heavy rains can delay flights, make some park roads muddy, and reduce the chances of spotting certain animals.

Where to Stay on a Flying Safari

Murchison Falls National Park provides a variety of accommodation options suitable for every type of traveler. Whether you are on a budget or seeking a luxury safari experience, you’ll find suitable places to stay. Popular lodges include:

• Paraa Safari Lodge
• Nile Safari Lodge
• Murchison River Lodge
• Baker’s Lodge
• Budongo Eco Lodge

These lodges are located close to the airstrips or offer pick-up services for travelers arriving by flight.

Nile Safari Lodge Luxury Accommodation in Murchison Falls National Park

Activities to Enjoy After Flying to Murchison Falls

After reaching Murchison Falls National Park, you can enjoy a wide range of exciting safari experiences. Below are the top activities to consider:

1. Game Drives

Game drives are the most popular activity in the park. They usually happen in the northern sector, where wildlife sightings are more frequent. On these guided drives, you’ll have a chance to see animals like elephants, lions, leopards, giraffes, buffaloes, waterbucks, bushbucks, hippos, hyenas, and several types of monkeys.

Early morning and late afternoon game drives offer the best chances to see animals at their most active.

2. Boat Cruises on the River Nile

A boat cruise along the River Nile is a highlight of any visit to the park. You can take a boat cruise either to the base of Murchison Falls, where the Nile rushes between the rocks, or to the Victoria Nile delta, where the river flows into Lake Albert.

On the cruise, you’ll spot hippos, crocodiles, and many birds such as kingfishers, herons, and the well-known shoebill stork. During the dry season, animals often come to the riverbanks to drink water, giving you great wildlife viewing opportunities.

3. Chimpanzee Trekking in Budongo Forest

For those interested in primates, chimpanzee trekking is a must. Budongo Forest, located in the southern part of the park, is home to over 700 chimpanzees. With the help of expert guides, you’ll hike into the forest and spend an hour observing chimpanzees in their natural environment. You’ll watch them feed, play, and move through the trees.

4. Sport Fishing

Sport fishing on the River Nile is a thrilling activity for anglers. It is done on a catch-and-release basis, and the river is home to fish species like Nile perch, catfish, and tilapia. Fishing is allowed in designated areas with a permit and guide.

5. Bird Watching

Murchison Falls National Park is a haven for bird lovers, home to more than 460 bird species. You can enjoy birdwatching during game drives, boat cruises, and guided nature walks. Some of the remarkable birds you may see include

• Shoebill stork
• Giant kingfisher
• African fish eagle
• Yellow-billed oxpecker
• Rock pratincole
• Denham’s bustard
• White-bellied night heron
• Senegal thick-knee

Birding is especially rewarding during the rainy season when migratory birds are present.