2 Best Sights in Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda

Spanning 70 square km (27 square miles), Ziwa Rhino and Wildlife Ranch (formerly Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary) is the only place in Uganda where wild rhinos roam freely; it's also a popular spot for lunch---en route to Murchison Falls in search of the other Big Five mammals. Rhino tracking is an ideal activity for families with young children. Despite their gargantuan proportions, these gentle vegetarians spend most of their days snoozing in the shade so it's best to track them early in the morning when they are most active. While rhinos are the star attraction, an overnight stay is highly recommended: look out for eight species of antelope, glide through the papyrus swamp in a canoe, or embark on a guided night walk with an armed ranger. Hippos, crocodiles, and leopards are a few of the reasons why you’ll be glad to have the company of an armed ranger courtesy of sanctuary managers, the Uganda Wildlife Authority. Keen-eyed adventurers may be rewarded with a glimpse of a porcupine, honey badger, or even an elusive aardvark. Recent additions---translocated from other national parks---include zebra, giraffe, and the striking-looking Jackson’s hartebeest, courtesy of the joint management with Uganda Wildlife Authority.  Rhino trekking can be arranged upon arrival at the sanctuary, though it is typically secured in advance by tour operators along with tracking permits.

Approximately 43 meters (141 feet) tall, the falls see 80,000 gallons of Nile River water per second exploding through a narrow 7-meter (23-foot) gap, creating the world’s most powerful stretch of water. From the safety of a guardrail, peer into the ferocious waters of the wonderfully named Devil’s Cauldron, at the base of the Falls. Viewpoints can be accessed by vehicle, from both banks of the Nile. The short (but strenuous) hike from the Top of the Falls on the south bank gives dramatic views of both Murchison and Uhuru Falls. (Over recent years, river water levels have been high; if they recede, it may again be possible to catch a boat to the bottom of the Falls for the climb to the top.)