Lodges in Murchison Falls National Park: 2025 Ultimate Guide
Lodges in Murchison Falls National Park: Explore with us the best lodges in Murchison Falls National Park for self-drive travelers, offering comfort, easy access, and unforgettable safari experiences in Uganda’s largest and most iconic park.
Murchison Falls National Park, located in northwestern Uganda, is the country’s largest national park, covering approximately 3,840 square kilometers.
Renowned for its dramatic waterfalls, diverse wildlife, and the mighty Nile River, it’s a prime destination for self-drive travelers seeking an immersive Murchison Falls safari experience.
The park’s relatively well-maintained road network, compared to other parts of Uganda, makes it an excellent choice for those exploring in their own vehicles.
Introduction to Lodges in Murchison Falls National Park
Murchison Falls National Park offers a wide range of accommodation options catering to various budgets and travel styles, from luxury lodges to budget campsites.
Self-drive travelers, in particular, need accommodations that are vehicle-accessible, provide secure parking, and offer amenities that support independent exploration, such as fuel stations, mechanic assistance, or detailed maps.
The park’s lodges are strategically located to provide access to key attractions like the Murchison Falls, the Nile River, and game drive circuits in the northern Buligi area, as well as chimpanzee trekking in the Budongo Forest.
Accommodations vary from high-end lodges with premium amenities to mid-range and budget options that balance affordability with comfort.
Many lodges are situated along the Nile, offering stunning views and proximity to wildlife, which enhances the safari experience for self-drive guests.
The park is accessible via multiple routes, with the main entry points being the Kichumbanyobo Gate via Masind, Bugungu Gate, and northern gates like Chobe, Wankwar, Mubako, and Tangi.
Self-drive travelers can reach the park from Kampala in approximately 5-6 hours, 305 km via Masindi or 260 km via Pakwach.
The park’s road network supports 4×4 safari vehicles, making it feasible to explore game tracks and reach lodges independently.
Most Lodges in Murchison Falls National Park are located either within its premises or just outside its boundaries, ensuring easy access to attractions while providing a base for rest and planning.
Below are the top budget, midrange, and luxurious lodges in Murchison Falls National Park;
Cheap accommodation at Murchison Falls National Park
Red Chilli Rest Camp:
Red Chilli Rest Camp, one of the beautiful budget lodges in Murchison Falls National Park, nestled in the heart of Murchison Falls National Park at Paraa.
It is a premier destination for self-drive travelers, located just 500 meters from the Nile ferry crossing. Easily accessible via a 5-hour drive from Kampala (305 km) through Kichumbanyobo Gate or Pakwach, it offers well-maintained park roads for seamless travel.
The camp features self-contained bandas, safari tents, and a campsite with shared bathrooms boasting solar-heated showers.
Amenities include a restaurant with Nile views, a bar open until midnight, and a communal campfire, perfect for a budget-friendly Murchison Falls National Park safari. Costs range from $30–$50 per person per night, including breakfast.
Boomu Women’s Group Banda.
Boomu Women’s Group Bandas, located near Kichumbanyobo Gate on Murchison Falls National Park’s southern boundary, is a community-driven budget lodge ideal for self-drive travelers.
Accessible via a 4–5-hour drive from Kampala (135 km) through Masindi, it’s close to Budongo Forest for chimpanzee trekking.
The eco-conscious lodge offers simple bandas, dormitories, and a campsite, with shared bathrooms and a restaurant serving local dishes.
Cultural performances enhance the Murchison Falls National Park safari experience. Perfect for backpackers seeking authenticity, costs range from $20–$40 per person per night, including breakfast.
Budongo Eco Lodge.
Budongo Eco Lodge, nestled in Budongo Forest within Murchison Falls National Park, is one of the ideal budget Lodges in Murchison Falls National Park, much sought after by budget consious travelers seeking chimpanzee trekking and birdwatching.
Located near Kichumbanyobo Gate, it’s accessible via a 4-hour drive from Kampala (135 km) through Masindi. The lodge offers five eco-cabins with private verandas, four dormitories, a restaurant, a visitor’s center with wildlife displays, and a craft shop.
Solar-powered electricity enhances its eco-conscious charm. Perfect for a Murchison Falls National Park safari, it costs $25–$45 per person per night, including breakfast.
Shoebill Campsite.
Shoebill Campsite, situated in the southern sector of Murchison Falls National Park, offers budget travelers a unique camping experience overlooking the Nile River.
Named after the rare shoebill stork, it’s perfect for self-drive visitors, accessible via a 4-hour drive from Kampala (135 km) through Masindi and Kichumbanyobo Gate.
The campsite features shared bathrooms, a campfire, and ranger security, with access to Nile Safari Lodge’s restaurant and pool nearby. Ideal for an affordable Murchison Falls National Park safari, it costs $15–$30 per person per night
Heritage Safari Lodge.
Heritage Safari Lodge, located 3 km from Tangi Gate in Pakwach, northern Murchison Falls National Park, is perfect for budget-conscious self-drive travelers. Accessible via a 4–5-hour drive from Kampala (260 km) along the Pakwach Road, it offers 10 cottages and tents with Nile views.
The lodge features a restaurant serving local and international cuisine, a bar, frees parking, and laundry services. Its proximity to game tracks and traditional Acholi architecture enhance the Murchison Falls National Park safari experience. Costs range from $30–$50 per person per night, including breakfast.
Mid-range accommodation in Murchison Falls National Park
Murchison River Lodge.
Nestled on the southern bank of the Nile, Murchison River Lodge offers mid-range thatched cottages, safari tents, and en-suite cabins with Nile views.
Accessible via a 4–5-hour drive from Kampala (305 km) through Kichumbanyobo Gate, it’s eco-friendly with solar power, a swimming pool, restaurant, and bar.
Guests enjoy game drives and boat safaris. Costs range from $80–$120 per person per night, including breakfast. Its tranquil setting and wildlife sightings make it perfect for a Murchison Falls National Park safari.
Pakuba Safari Lodge
Located on the eastern bank of the Albert Nile near Tangi Gate, Pakuba Safari Lodge is one of the best Lodges in Murchison Falls National Park, offering 41 en-suite rooms, including family suites, with river views.
Reachable in 4–5 hours from Kampala (260 km) via Pakwach, it features a pool, restaurant, bar, and free Wi-Fi. Guests can spot giraffes and elephants from the lodge.
Costs are $70–$110 per person per night, including breakfast. Its prime location enhances the Murchison Falls National Park safari experience with easy game drive access.
Twiga Safari Lodge.
Twiga Safari Lodge, situated on the Nile’s bank in Mubaako Paraa, is a 5-minute drive from the Paraa ferry crossing. Accessible via a 5-hour drive from Kampala , 305 km, it offers eight thatched cottages blending safari tents with African style, plus a restaurant, bar, and free Wi-Fi.
Costs range from $60–$100 per person per night, including breakfast. Monkeys and birds frequent the grounds, enhancing the Murchison Falls National Park safari with stunning sunrise and sunset views.
Sambiya River Lodge.
Sambiya River Lodge, nestled in the heart of Murchison Falls National Park, is a 15-minute drive from the falls. Reachable in 4–5 hours from Kampala (305 km) via Kichumbanyobo Gate, it offers thatched cottages and safari tents with en-suite facilities, a restaurant, and bar.
Costs are $70–$100 per person per night, including breakfast. Its eco-friendly setup and proximity to game tracks and the Nile make it ideal for a Murchison Falls National Park safari adventure.
Fort Murchison Lodge.
Fort Murchison Lodge, set on the Albert Nile’s eastern bank near the former Aswa-Lolim Game Reserve, is accessible via a 4–5-hour drive from Kampala, 260 km, through Pakwach.
It offers 12 en-suite rooms and thatched tents with shared facilities, a restaurant, bar, pool, and rooftop terrace. Costs range from $60–$90 per person per night, including breakfast.
Its Swahili-style architecture and wildlife views enhance the Murchison Falls National Park safari experience for self-drive travelers.
Kabalega Wilderness Lodge.
Kabalega Wilderness Lodge, located in Murchison Falls National Park, offers stunning Nile views near Paraa. Accessible via a 5-hour drive from Kampala, 305 km, through Kichumbanyobo Gate, it features well-furnished en-suite rooms, a campfire area, restaurant, and bar.
Costs are $80–$110 per person per night, including breakfast. Its proximity to game drives and boat safaris makes it a prime choice for a Murchison Falls National Park safari, blending comfort with immersive wildlife experiences
Luxury accommodation in Murchison Falls National Park
Paraa Safari Lodge.
Paraa Safari Lodge, established in 1954, sits on the north bank of the Nile in Murchison Falls National Park. Accessible via a 5-hour drive from Kampala, through Kichumbanyobo Gate, it offers 54 en-suite rooms with private balconies, a swimming pool, restaurant, bar, and business center.
Guests enjoy game drives and boat safaris. Costs range from $150–$250 per person per night, including meals. Its central Paraa location ensures easy access to wildlife, enhancing the luxurious Murchison Falls National Park safari experience.
Baker’s Lodge.
Located on the Nile’s south bank, Baker’s Lodge offers luxury with 10 canvas-and-thatch rooms, blending traditional African style. Accessible via a 5-hour drive from Kampala, 305 km, through Kichumbanyobo Gate, it features a restaurant, bar, Wi-Fi, and direct river access for boat safaris.
Guests enjoy game drives and bush breakfasts. Costs are $150–$200 per person per night, including breakfast. Wildlife like hippos frequent the grounds, making it ideal for an intimate Murchison Falls National Park safari with stunning Nile views.
Chobe Safari Lodge.
Chobe Safari Lodge, one of the popular Lodges in Murchison Falls National Park, located on the Nile’s northern bank, offering 36 rooms, 21 luxury tents, 4 suites, and a Presidential Cottage.
Reachable in 5 hours from Kampala, 260 km, via Pakwach or a 1-hour flight to Chobe airstrip, it features a three-level pool, Karama restaurant, bar, spa, and Wi-Fi.
Costs range from $200–$400 per person per night, all-inclusive. Its prime location ensures easy game drive and boat safari access, delivering a luxurious Murchison Falls National Park safari with breathtaking river views.
Nile Safari Lodge.
Nile Safari Lodge, an eco-friendly retreat on the Nile’s south bank, offers 8 luxury bandas with private plunge pools. Accessible via a 4–5-hour drive from Kampala, 135 km, through Masindi and Kichumbanyobo Gate, it features a restaurant, infinity pool, Wi-Fi, and solar-powered amenities.
Costs are $150–$250 per person per night, including breakfast. Its natural design and proximity to the Albert Delta enhance the Murchison Falls National Park safari, offering game drives, boat safaris, and serene wildlife views.
Anyadwe House @ Baker’s Lodge.
Anyadwe House, is one of the exclusive Lodges in Murchison Falls National Park, an extension of Baker’s Lodge, sits on the Nile’s south bank. Accessible via a 5-hour drive from Kampala ,305 km, through Kichumbanyobo Gate, it offers a private 3-bedroom villa with a lounge, dining area, plunge pool, and dedicated staff.
Costs range from $200–$350 per person per night, including meals. Ideal for families, it provides direct Nile access for boat safaris and game drives, ensuring a luxurious Murchison Falls National Park safari with unparalleled privacy and wildlife encounters.
Recommended Lodges Accessible by Vehicle
Lodges in Murchison Falls National Park are easily accessible by vehicle for self-drive travelers via well-maintained roads.
From Kampala, take the southern route, 305 km, 4–5 hours, through Kichumbanyobo Gate to reach Paraa Safari Lodge, Baker’s Lodge, Nile Safari Lodge, Anyadwe House, Murchison River Lodge, Twiga Safari Lodge, Kabalega Wilderness Lodge, Red Chilli Rest Camp, Boomu Women’s Group Bandas, Budongo Eco Lodge, and Shoebill Campsite.
Alternatively, the northern route via Pakwach (260 km, 4–5 hours) accesses Chobe Safari Lodge, Pakuba Safari Lodge, Fort Murchison Lodge, and Heritage Safari Lodge. A 4×4 vehicle is recommended for park tracks, ensuring a seamless Murchison Falls National Park safari.
Availability of Safe Parking and Car Rental Facilities Onsite
Most lodges in Murchison Falls National Park offer safe parking for self-drive travelers, with secure, free private parking areas monitored by staff.
Nile Safari Lodge, Paraa Safari Lodge, Murchison River Lodge, Chobe Safari Lodge, Red Chilli Rest Camp, and Fort Murchison provide designated parking, with night escorts due to wildlife like hippos.
Baker’s Lodge ensures vigilant parking near the entrance. Onsite car rental is rare; however, Savannah Murchison Lodge in Kasenyi arranges rentals with advance booking.
Most travelers rent 4×4 vehicles like Toyota Prado or Land Cruiser from Kampala or Entebbe through operators like Car Hire Uganda, with drop-off options or guided drives via Wild Frontiers or UWA.
Lodge Amenities Catering to Self-Drive Guests
Self-drive travelers require specific amenities to support their independent exploration. The following lodges offer tailored services:
Fuel Stations:
Fuel stations are limited within the park, so self-drive travelers should refuel in nearby towns like Masindi, Pakwach, or Wanseko before entering.
Lodges like Paraa Safari Lodge and Chobe Safari Lodge are near park gates where fuel stations may be accessible. Travelers should carry extra fuel in jerry cans for longer game drives.
Murchison River Lodge and Nile Safari Lodge are close to the Bugungu Gate, where fuel can be sourced in nearby Bulisa or Wanseko.
Mechanic Assistance:
Onsite mechanic services are not standard at most Lodges in Murchison Falls National Park, but at Cat Hire Uganda, we assure you 24/7 emergency assistance.
You should always ensure that the rental car is serviced before the trip and remember also carrying basic tools and spare tires.
Fort Murchison and Red Chilli Rest Camp can connect guests with local mechanics in Pakwach or Masindi for minor repairs.
Maps and Navigation:
Murchison River Lodge, Nile Safari Lodge, and Baker’s Lodge provide detailed park maps and activity schedules to guests upon arrival.
Staff can offer route advice for game drives and attractions like the Top of the Falls.
Paraa Safari Lodge and Chobe Safari Lodge have knowledgeable staff who assist with planning self-drive routes, including Buligi game tracks and Nile boat safari starting points.
As a selfdrive traveler who is not familiar with Uganda road networks, you can also obtain maps from the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA), at park gates or through operators like us.
Additional Amenities:
Campsites: Murchison River Lodge and Red Chilli Rest Camp offer shaded campsites with ablution facilities, ideal for self-drive campers with rooftop tents or personal equipment.
Wi-Fi: Available at most lodges such as Paraa, Nile Safari Lodge, and Chobe, but often limited to communal areas and may be unreliable.
Wildlife Safety: Lodges like Murchison River Lodge and Nile Safari Lodge provide evening escorts due to hippos and other wildlife roaming the grounds, ensuring safety for self-drive guests.
Tips for Booking Lodges in Murchison Falls National Park
Best Seasons to Visit:
Dry Seasons, ranging from December-March, and June-July: These are ideal for game drives due to less vegetation and concentrated wildlife near water sources.
Roads are more navigable for self-drive travelers. Lodges charge peak rates during these months.
Wet Seasons (April-May, August-November): These feature lush scenery and fewer crowds. some roads during this season tend to be muddy, requiring a reliable 4×4.
Rates and Advance Bookings:
Lodges in Murchison Falls National Park are booked atleast 1-3 months in advance, especially for peak seasons, to secure preferred lodges and avoid price hikes. Nile Safari Lodge, Paraa Safari Lodge, and Chobe Safari Lodge often require early bookings due to high demand.
Budget Lodges in Murchison Falls National Park, options like Red Chilli Rest Camp and Murchison River Lodge are more flexible but still benefit from advance reservations.
Check for combo deals or discounts when booking multiple nights or combining with other parks. Forexample, Fort Murchison offers discounts for multi-property bookings.
Additional Tips:
- Always confirm Lodges in Murchison Falls National Park inclusions, such as full board, park fees, and activities offered when booking to avoid unexpected costs.
- Request rooms or tents with Nile views for a better experience, especially at Nile Safari Lodge and Baker’s Lodge.
- Check for family-friendly options if traveling with children forexample Murchison River Lodge is noted for family accommodation.
Recommendations for Vehicle Types Based on Lodge Accessibility
Lodges in Murchison Falls National Park require Self-drive travelers to have a reliable vehicle suited to the park’s terrain, which includes paved roads, dirt tracks, and potentially muddy conditions during wet seasons. Recommended vehicle types include:
4×4 SUVs: Some of the popular options include the Toyota Land Cruiser, Toyota Prado, and Land Rover Defender. These are Ideal options for all lodges, especially remote ones like Chobe Safari Lodge and Fort Murchison, due to rugged roads and river crossings.
Their high ground clearance, accompanied with a four-wheel drive systems handles all challenging terrains with ease.
Toyota Rav4: A budget-friendly 4×4 option for less challenging routes, such as those to Nile Safari Lodge, Murchison River Lodge, and Red Chilli Rest Camp. It is adequate for dry season travel but may struggle in heavy mud.
Land Cruiser Hardtop: Recommended for campers heading to Murchison River Lodge or Red Chilli Rest Camp, as it supports rooftop tents and has ample storage.
General Tips:
- Ensure that your rental car comes with a spare tire, jack, and basic tools to help you during emergencies. Carry extra fuel (20-liter jerry cans) for long game drives, as fuel stations are sparse.
- A GPS or offline map app is essential, as some routes are unmarked. Some lodges can provide paper maps upon arrival.
Nearby Attractions Easily Reachable by Car from Each Lodge
The following attractions are accessible by car from the recommended lodges, enhancing your self-drive experience:
Murchison Falls:
This is the world’s most powerful waterfall, where the Nile squeezes through a 7-meter gap, creating a dramatic cascade.
From Lodges:
- Paraa Safari Lodge: 5-10 minutes to the ferry crossing, then a 30-minute drive to the Top of the Falls or a boat safari to the base.
- Nile Safari Lodge and Baker’s Lodge: 20-30 minutes to the Paraa ferry, then a short drive or boat trip.
- Murchison River Lodge and Red Chilli Rest Camp: 20-30 minutes to the ferry or boat launch.
- Chobe Safari Lodge: 1-hour drive to the falls via northern game tracks.
- Fort Murchison: 30-40 minutes to the falls via the Tangi Gate.
Accessibility: Murchison Falls are reachable by 4×4 vehicles; the Top of the Falls has a parking area for self-drive visitors.
Buligi Game Tracks (Northern Section):
This is one of the best area for self-drive game drives, with sightings of lions, elephants, giraffes, buffaloes, and leopards. It features well-maintained tracks that are suitable fo a 4×4 car.
From Lodges:
- Paraa Safari Lodge: Directly adjacent to Buligi tracks (10-15 minutes).
- Chobe Safari Lodge: 30-40 minutes via northern gates.
- Nile Safari Lodge, Baker’s Lodge, Murchison River Lodge, Red Chilli: 20-40 minutes via the Paraa ferry.
- Fort Murchison: 15-20 minutes to Buligi via the Tangi Gate.
Budongo Forest (Chimpanzee Trekking):
This is a pristine forest found south of the park, home to over 600 chimpanzees making it one of the beautiful places in Uganda to track these fascinating primates.
From Lodges:
- Nile Safari Lodge, Baker’s Lodge, Murchison River Lodge: 20-30 minutes to the Kaniyo Pabidi entrance.
- Red Chilli Rest Camp: 25-35 minutes.
- Paraa Safari Lodge: 40-50 minutes via the ferry.
- Chobe Safari Lodge and Fort Murchison: 1-1.5 hours via southern routes.
Budongo Forest is conveniently accessed by a 4×4 car via the Kichumbanyobo Gate. Note that guided chimpanzee treks require advance booking with a legit tour operator or with UWA.
Nile River Boat Safari:
This is a 3-hour boat trip offering sightings of hippos, crocodiles, elephants, and shoebill storks.
From Lodges:
- Paraa Safari Lodge: Direct access to the boat launch (5 minutes).
- Nile Safari Lodge, Baker’s Lodge, Murchison River Lodge: 20-30 minutes to the Paraa boat launch.
- Red Chilli Rest Camp: 10-15 minutes to the launch.
- Chobe Safari Lodge: 40-60 minutes to the Paraa launch.
- Fort Murchison: 30-40 minutes via the Tangi Gate.
Parking is available at the Paraa boat launch for self-drive guests. Book boat trips through tour operators, lodges or UWA.
Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary:
This is a 70 sq km sanctuary en route to Murchison Falls, home to 36 white rhinos. It offers thrilling guided nature walks and conservation insights.
From Lodges:
- Nile Safari Lodge, Baker’s Lodge, Murchison River Lodge, Red Chilli: 1.5-2 hours via Masindi.
- Paraa Safari Lodge: 2-2.5 hours.
- Chobe Safari Lodge and Fort Murchison: 2.5-3 hours.
It is located along the Kampala-Masindi route and easily reachable by 4×4 or 2WD vehicles.