How Much Is a Game Drive in Murchison Falls: Prices 2025/6
How Much Is a Game Drive in Murchison Falls: Imagine the sun rising over the vast savannah of Uganda’s largest national park, where the mighty Nile River carves through dramatic landscapes, and herds of elephants trumpet in the distance.
Murchison Falls National Park, spanning 3,840 square kilometers in northwestern Uganda, is a wildlife haven famous for its explosive waterfall where the Nile squeezes through a narrow gorge, creating one of Africa’s most spectacular natural wonders.
Spotting lions on the prowl, graceful giraffes nibbling acacia trees, and pods of hippos lounging in the river adds an electrifying thrill to any Murchison Falls safari.
But before booking your adventure, understanding the Murchison Falls game drive price and overall safari costs is key to budgeting effectively.
In this comprehensive guide, we break down the latest 2025/6 prices for game drives, park entrance fees set by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA), vehicle hire options, and guided tours.
Whether you’re planning a self-drive expedition or a luxury guided experience, these details will help you navigate Murchison Falls safari costs.
We’ll also cover tips for the best wildlife encounters, saving money, and where to stay near the park. Dive in to plan your unforgettable Uganda safari.
Game Drive Prices in Murchison Falls National Park
Game drives are the heartbeat of any Murchison Falls safari, offering close-up views of over 76 mammal species and 450+ birds amid savannah, woodlands, and wetlands.
Costs vary based on whether you self-drive, hire a vehicle, or opt for a guided tour with an experienced ranger. Self-drive options require a 4×4 vehicle and are ideal for independent explorers, but guided drives ensure safety and expert insights into animal behavior. Note that day game drives often incur a per-vehicle fee, while night drives are per person.
Here’s a breakdown of approximate 2025 costs in USD:
|
Type of Drive
|
FNR USD
|
FR USD
|
Rest of Africa
|
EAC UGX
|
Duration
|
Notes
|
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Guided Day Game Drive (Per Guide, Private Vehicle)
|
25
|
20
|
25
|
25,000
|
3–4 hours
|
Up to 6 people per vehicle; expert spotting tips.
|
|
Guided Night Game Drive (Per Person)
|
30
|
20
|
30
|
30,000
|
2 hours
|
Nocturnal focus; mandatory UWA guide.
|
|
Self-Drive Day Game Drive (Per Vehicle)
|
10
|
10
|
10
|
10,000
|
3–4 hours
|
4×4 required; optional ranger for safety.
|
|
UWA Game Drive Vehicle (Day, Per Person)
|
30
|
25
|
30
|
30,000
|
3–4 hours
|
Includes driver (fuel extra); min. 3 pax.
|
|
UWA Game Drive Vehicle (Night, Per Person)
|
40
|
35
|
40
|
40,000
|
2 hours
|
Includes driver; min. 3 pax.
|
|
UWA Game Drive Truck Hire (Per Day, Savannah Parks)
|
N/A
|
N/A
|
N/A
|
800,000
|
Full day
|
Includes driver (fuel extra); up to 20 pax.
|
Vehicle hire from operators (not UWA) typically adds $250–300/day for a 4×4, plus fuel/driver. For full-day options, combine with picnic lunch (self-provided). Always retain receipts for verification.
Murchison Falls National Park Entrance Fees
Foreign non-residents pay $45 per adult per day, with reduced rates for children and residents. Vehicle fees apply: $150 for foreign-registered 4x4s or tour vehicles; UGX 30,000 for local private vehicles under 7 tons.Here’s the breakdown of 2025 UWA rates (valid through June 2026):
|
Category
|
Foreign Non-Resident (USD)
|
Foreign Resident (USD)
|
International Tourist (USD)
|
East African Citizens (UGX)
|
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Adults
|
45
|
35
|
30
|
25,000
|
|
Children
|
25
|
15
|
10
|
10,000
|
|
Ugandan Pupils/Students (Groups)
|
N/A
|
N/A
|
N/A
|
3,000
|
|
Tertiary Institutions/Universities
|
N/A
|
N/A
|
N/A
|
Whats include on the entrance fee:
- General Park Access: Entry via gates (open 7 AM–7 PM) to view landscapes, the Nile River, and wildlife from public roads or viewpoints (e.g., self-drive along established tracks at a max 40 km/h).
- Basic Infrastructure: Use of roads, parking, signage, and rest areas.
- Conservation Benefits: Funds habitat protection for over 76 mammal species (lions, elephants, giraffes) and 450+ birds.
- One-Day Validity: Covers multiple entries within 24 hours; no extra charge for short re-entries.
Not Included (Separate Fees Required):
- Activities: Game drives ($10–40/person or per guide), boat cruises to the falls ($30/person), hiking to the top of the falls ($15/person), birdwatching/nature walks ($25/person), or white-water rafting ($50/person).
- Vehicle Entry: $150 for foreign 4x4s/tour vehicles (+$10 Murchison-specific); UGX 30,000 for local vehicles (+UGX 10,000).
- Accommodation/Camping: Bandas, dorms, or campsites (e.g., UGX 25,000/person/night for dorms).
- Guides/Rangers: Mandatory for night drives or optional for day activities ($20–25/guide).
- Extended Stays: Beyond 24 hours requires a new fee.
Game Drive Options in Murchison Falls
Tailor your experience to your style:
- Self-Drive Game Drives: For adventurers with a 4×4, pay minimal fees ($10/person) but follow park rules and carry a ranger for safety. Ideal for flexibility.
- Guided Game Drives: Book via lodges or operators; rangers share spotting tips. Costs $120+ per vehicle.
- Private vs. Group: Private drives cost more but offer personalized pacing; groups share expenses.
- Balloon Safari: Elevate your view with a hot air balloon ride over the park for $380–400/person, spotting herds from above.
Combine with boat cruises on the Nile for hippos and crocs.
Best Time for Game Drives in Murchison Falls
Early morning (6–10 AM) and late afternoon (4–7 PM) drives yield the best sightings, as cooler temperatures activate wildlife. The dry season (June–September, December–February) is optimal, with animals congregating at water sources and tracks being dustier but passable. Avoid wet seasons for muddy roads, though birding peaks then.
Wildlife You’ll See
Murchison teems with lions (including prides near Buligi), elephants, giraffes, buffaloes, hippos, crocodiles, leopards, antelopes like Uganda kobs, and over 400 bird species including the shoebill stork. It’s one of few Ugandan parks with four Big Five members (rhinos via nearby Ziwa).
Tips to Save Money on Murchison Falls Safari Costs
- Group travel to split vehicle and guide fees.
- Book local operators for competitive rates.
- Visit shoulder seasons (March–May, October–November) for lower crowds and prices.
- Self-drive if experienced; pack snacks for full-day drives.
- Opt for budget camps like Red Chilli.
Where to Stay: Murchison Falls Safari Lodges
Stay inside or near the park for easy access. Popular options:
- Paraa Safari Lodge (Luxury): Riverside views, pools, and guided activities.
- Pakuba Safari Lodge (Mid-range): Modern tents with Nile vistas.
- Red Chilli Rest Camp (Budget): Eco-friendly camping with game drive access.
Search “best places to stay near Murchison Falls” for more on these Murchison Falls safari lodges.
FAQ
How much is a game drive in Murchison Falls? $10–45/person self-drive; $120–300 guided.
What is the best time for a game drive? Early morning or evening in dry season.
How many animals are in Murchison Falls National Park? Over 76 mammals and 450+ birds.
A game drive in Murchison Falls is an unparalleled East African wildlife adventure. From the roar of the falls to lion sightings, it’s priceless.
