Overview
The 6-Day Murchison Falls and Kidepo Valley Safari takes you on an extraordinary journey through Uganda’s largest and most remote national parks. Experience the thunderous beauty of Murchison Falls, where the Nile River explodes through a narrow gorge, and explore the raw, untouched wilderness of Kidepo Valley, Uganda’s hidden gem teeming with rare wildlife and dramatic landscapes.
This itinerary is ideal for seasoned travelers, wildlife lovers, and photographers seeking off-the-beaten-path adventure combined with classic game drives, cultural encounters, and breathtaking scenery.
Itinerary
A guide will collect you from your hotel in Kampala and set off towards Murchison Falls National Park. En route, stop at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary in Nakasongola for a nature walk in search of the sanctuary’s wild rhinos. Afterward, enjoy lunch before continuing to Murchison Falls National Park. If your lodge is on the southern side, you will visit the top of the falls upon arrival. Alternatively, this can be combined with the boat trip later in your itinerary. Settle in for your overnight stay.
Overnight:
Luxury: Chobe Safari Lodge, Paraa Safari Lodge, Nile Safari Lodge, or Pakuba Lodge
Mid-range: Fort Murchison, Sambiya River Lodge, Murchison River Lodge
Budget: Red Chilli Rest Camp, Sambiya River Bandas, or Budongo Eco Lodge
Start the morning with a game drive on the northern side of the park, where you can expect to see elephants, giraffes, lions, waterbucks, Uganda kobs, topis, and various antelope species. By mid-morning, return to your lodge for some relaxation and lunch. In the afternoon, take a boat trip upstream along the Victoria Nile, stopping at the base of the dramatic Murchison Falls. For those feeling adventurous, an optional hike to the top of the falls is available for an extra fee. Keep your eyes peeled for hippos, crocodiles, and an array of birdlife. Return to your lodge for dinner and your overnight stay.
Enjoy an early breakfast and head north to Kidepo Valley National Park. After a lunch stop in Kitgum, continue your journey, arriving at the park in the evening. If you’re camping, set up your tent at the park headquarters and savor the excitement of the wilderness. After dinner, join a night game drive for a chance to see nocturnal wildlife, including lions and other predators.
Overnight:
Luxury: Apoka Safari Lodge
Budget: UWA Bandas
Rise early for a game drive in the Narus Valley. The morning hours are ideal for spotting lions, leopards, cheetahs, and the region’s vast herds of buffalo, elephants, and zebras. Kidepo is the only park in Uganda where you can find cheetahs and ostriches, making this drive particularly special. Bird watchers will also find this a paradise. Return to your lodge for lunch before heading out for a visit to the Karamojong community. Learn about their traditional way of life, and browse local crafts as souvenirs of your journey.
After breakfast, explore more of Kidepo Valley with a morning safari and birdwatching session. Around midday, return to the lodge for lunch before beginning your journey to Kitgum, where you will spend the night.
Overnight: The Boma Hotel
After breakfast, begin your journey back to Kampala, passing through Lira or Gulu. Take a break along the way for lunch before arriving in the city, concluding your adventure.
Inclusion
Includes
- All park entrance fees and conservation permits
- Rhino tracking at Ziwa Sanctuary
- Game drives in Murchison and Kidepo
- Boat cruise to the base of Murchison Falls
- Hike to the top of the falls
- Cultural visit to Karimojong community
- Accommodation for 5 nights (mid-range or luxury options)
- All meals as per itinerary
- Transport in a 4x4 safari vehicle with fuel and guide
- Bottled water during travel
Excludes
- International flights
- Uganda visa fees
- Travel insurance
- Alcoholic drinks and personal expenses
- Tips and gratuities
- Optional fly-in transfers from Kidepo to Entebbe
FAQs
Kidepo is Uganda’s most remote park, located in the far northeast, about 700 km from Kampala. It’s pristine and uncrowded — perfect for adventurers.
Yes. The roads are generally safe and pass through beautiful savannah and cultural regions. You can also opt for a scheduled or charter flight to reduce drive time.
Kidepo is the only place in Uganda where you can find cheetahs, ostriches, and greater kudu. It’s also excellent for large herds of buffaloes and elephants.
The dry seasons (December–February and June–September) are best for game viewing and road conditions.
Morning game drives usually last about 3-4 hours, while afternoon drives or boat cruises can be around 2-3 hours.
Comfortable, lightweight clothing in neutral colors, a wide-brimmed hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, sturdy walking shoes, binoculars, and a good camera. Nights and mornings can be chilly, so a warm layer is essential.
