Hiking Top of the Falls-Murchison Falls National Park Safari

Hiking Top of the Falls-Murchison Falls National Park Safari

Hiking the top of the falls trail in Murchison Falls National Park is one of the most adventurous and great activities. Visitors in Uganda need to do this to have a complete Safari adventure. The top of the falls hike offers you breathtaking views of the Murchison Falls from above. This happens as you watch the Nile waters force through a small 7-meter gorge with a lot of force. This event leads to the creation of Murchison Falls.

You also get to see the sister falls to Murchison Falls known as Uhuru Falls.  They formed after water broke away from the origin of Murchison Falls around 1962 when Uganda gained independence. Therefore its name is Uhuru a Swahili dialect to means independence and the nature of the park.

You find Murchison Falls in Murchison Falls National Park. It is the largest and oldest park in Uganda, famous for having the African big five animals. It is also home to over 75 mammals and over 450 bird species. You can see some of these during the hike.

The Albertine Nile divides the park into two; the Northern and Southern Sectors. You can access the top of the falls by car. However, it’s more rewarding for visitors to take a hike to the falls after a boat trip that brings you to the start point. Most times we combine the top of the falls hike with a boat cruise to the bottom of the falls. This gives you double experience on the boat and during the hike.

Length and difficulty of the hike

Hiking to the top of the falls takes about 45 minutes and needs one to be physically fit. However, everyone can hike it though the time taken may vary. People with an interest in hiking set off at 2 pm on a boat cruise where you can see several wildlife. The wildlife you can see includes elephants, antelopes, hippos, and crocodiles. You can also see many bird species like the shoebill, pelicans, and pied kingfishers. You can also see red-throated bee-eaters, and take nice photographs as much as you want.

On arrival at the bottom of the falls by boat, a professional ranger guide meets you. Then, he briefs you before starting the hike. He still hikes with you to provide all the necessary information and history about the place. He also provides answers to all the questions that visitors may ask.

Hiking through the footsteps of the early explorers such as Sir Samuel Baker, enables you to know the history and also have panoramic views of the falls, River Nile, and Murchison Falls National Park.

Once on top of the falls, you will be amazed at how the nature around is. You’ll have a full view of the park and the river Nile as it transforms from Victoria Nile to Albert Nile. The sound of water gushing out the gorge will amaze you, and how the water falls over a 43m cliff to the rocks and bounces back forming a rainbow and whitish snow. Partake in this hike, booked on your safari Itinerary by a trusted tour operator. It costs a small fee which you pay either before or after the hike.