Visiting Murchison Falls National Park
Getting Sort Of Lost, Safari Game Drives & Murchison Falls & Our Stay at Red Chili Rest Camp
Our trip to Murchison Falls National Park in Uganda started with what can only be described as a very wrong turn.
Wrong Turn or New Adventure?
We absolutely knew better but still, we followed Google Maps straight toward what we thought was the main entrance gate. Instead, we ended up at Wangkwar Gate, a less developed and less commonly used southern entry point to Murchison Falls National Park. The road leading up to the Wangkwar Gate was less maintained, bushy, and extremely muddy. Our vehicle even got stuck in the mud about a mile from the gate and we had to spend about 30 minutes pushing it out of the mud.
Not exactly the smooth start we expected — but also, very Uganda.
Thankfully, once we finally reached Wangkwar Gate, the staff were incredibly kind and helpful. We were able to pay our park entrance fees there and quickly use the bathroom facilities before being warmly welcomed into Murchison Falls National Park.
For up-to-date information on entrance fees and permits for visiting Murchison Falls National Park, you can check the official Uganda Wildlife Authority website here.
Once inside Murchison Falls National Park, we essentially had our own unofficial safari. Entering through a less-used gate meant the roads were rougher and more overgrown than the main routes, but it also made the drive feel more adventurous and less touristy. We slowly made our way through the bushy tracks until we reached the main road, and eventually our accommodation for the night.
Watch our family adventure in Murchison Falls National Park here on our YouTube channel.
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Our Visit to Murchison Falls National Park
We stayed at Red Chili Rest Camp (not sponsored) and absolutely loved it.
Red Chili has a relaxed, social atmosphere that makes it feel very connected to nature.
Meals are ordered in the morning so everything is freshly prepared, and each evening there are three dinner options, including a vegetarian choice. They also provide packed breakfasts and lunches for game drives, which is incredibly helpful for early starts.
The communal dining and bar area also makes it easy to meet other travelers, with everyone sharing stories while overlooking the beautiful surroundings.
We were traveling as a family group — three of David’s brothers, a sister-in-law, and his uncle — and our immediate family of five stayed in a family unit called “The Tilapia.”
It was perfect for us, with a cozy sitting area, two bedrooms, and a private bathroom with a shower.
After a full travel day, it felt comfortable, simple, and exactly what we needed.
And then there’s the wildlife right at camp.
Warthogs wandered freely through the grounds like they lived there (because, honestly, they probably do), and at one point a hippo even passed near our room at night.
It’s one of those places where you constantly pause and think, is this real life?
Red Chili organized a 4-hour early morning game drive safari, which required a 5:00 a.m. wake-up— and it was absolutely worth it.
In the cool early morning light, we saw giraffes, elephants, buffalo, kob, and monkeys moving through the park before the heat of the day set in. Safari game drives in Murchison Falls National Park are especially magical in the morning when animals are most active and the landscape feels quiet and untouched.
It was one of the highlights of the entire trip.
You can view our safari packing list here.
We joined a guided tour with a representative from the Uganda Wildlife Authority, who was incredibly knowledgeable and so kind with our kids.
There is quite a bit of walking involved to reach the falls, so comfortable shoes and clothing are essential.
While the paths are well maintained, some viewing areas near the falls have limited or open guardrails, so extra care is important when visiting with young or adventurous children.
But then you finally reach it — and it’s unforgettable. At Murchison Falls, the Nile River forces its way through a narrow gorge before crashing down with incredible power.
Known as the world’s strongest waterfall, the sound, force, and sheer energy of the water is something that stays with you long after you leave.
Planning a Trip?
These travel resources can help.
Planning a visit to Murchison Falls National Park?
Find things to do there:
Whether you’re exploring the falls, going on safari, or both – it’s worth booking accommodations in advance—especially during busy travel periods.
Trip Planning Resources
These are the companies we’ve personally found the most helpful while traveling.
Popular Travel Guides
Some of our most-read guides.
• Jinja Guide
• Zanzibar Guide
• Mbale Guide
• Long-Haul Travel Tips
Final Thoughts
Our family trip to Murchison Falls National Park in Uganda was everything we hoped for and more — a mix of adventure, wildlife, unexpected moments, and breathtaking scenery.
From getting stuck in the mud on the way in, to early morning safari drives, to standing in front of Murchison Falls itself, every part of the journey felt memorable in its own way.
We left tired, a little dusty, me slightly sunburned… and all of us completely happy.
We already know we’ll be back someday.
Looking for a place to belong?
Save Me a Seat at Our Table
We’re so glad you’re here.
Life is a little more meaningful when it’s shared.
About once a month, I sit down with a cup of tea and write a letter about what we’ve been noticing, learning, cooking, exploring, and celebrating in our little corner of Uganda.
It’s less like a newsletter…
and more like catching up with a neighbor.
If this sounds like your kind of place, go ahead and save yourself a seat.
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