Murchison Falls National Park is one of the most popular national parks in Uganda. It is visited by many tourists mainly for wildlife viewing, boat trips, and chimpanzee tracking. The park has many accommodation options ranging from budget, mid-range to luxury. This gives tourists a wide choice of where to stay. However, not every lodge will give you the comfort you need, no matter your budget.
Some lodges may look good online, but their location, facilities, and views may not be worth the money. Even budget travelers deserve good value. You can still stay in a nice place if you make the right choices. This can be hard if you don’t know the best lodges in Murchison Falls National Park.
This guide shows you the best lodges to stay in, no matter your budget. I have personally visited all of them, and I am sure you will get good service at each one.
Paraa Safari Lodge (Luxury)
Paraa Safari Lodge is one of the best lodges in Murchison Falls National Park. It was built in 1954 and is located in the north-west of Uganda, facing River Nile. It is owned by Marasa Africa Group.
The lodge offers comfort, relaxation, and a little adventure. Every room has a balcony, private bathroom, and is designed with style. Paraa only offers luxury accommodation.
Chobe Safari Lodge (Luxury)
Chobe Safari Lodge has 30 guest rooms, 20 luxury tents, 4 suites, and a Presidential Cottage. It is located in the north-east of the park near River Nile and close to Karuma Falls.
All rooms have balconies with river views. The lodge is far from the main wildlife area, which is why some people still prefer Paraa. But Chobe is still a top choice.
Nile Safari Lodge (Luxury)
This lodge has excellent services. It is built in a traditional style on the Nile River Bank. From here, you can see elephants, hippos, and birds like the Shoebill.
The lodge has wooden chalets and tents close to the river for good views. It is one of the most comfortable lodges in the park.
Fort Murchison Lodge (Mid-Range)
Fort Murchison is on the eastern bank of the Albert Nile. It has a tower and Swahili-style buildings. It is owned by a Dutch-Ugandan couple. It offers mid-range and budget accommodation and is built on land that was part of Aswa Lolim Game Reserve.
Sambiya River Lodge (Budget to Mid-Range)
This lodge is 15 minutes from the top of the falls. It is good for relaxing after activities like game drives or chimp tracking. It is also good for bird watchers. Many animals move around the lodge at night, so guests should not move alone.
Pakuba Safari Lodge (Mid-Range)
Pakuba Safari Lodge is on the northern bank of the park, near the Albert Nile. Many animals visit the area around the lodge. At night, you may see elephants, kobs, buffaloes, and lions. Guests should always move with a guard at night.
Murchison River Lodge (Mid-Range)
This lodge is on the southern bank of River Nile. It has cottages, tents, and a camping area. Guests can bring their own tents or use the lodge’s camping gear. The lodge has a good restaurant and comfortable facilities.
Kabalega Wilderness Lodge (Mid-Range to Luxury)
This lodge sits on the southern bank of the Nile. It is named after King Kabalega of the Bunyoro Kingdom. The cabins are built with wood and mud, and the roofs are thatched. The lodge has a traditional design and good views of the wild.
Red Chilli Rest Camp (Budget)
This camp is next to River Nile and close to the Paraa ferry. It has bandas and tents. It is a good place for budget travelers. The bandas have bathrooms and toilets. Campers can cook or eat at the lodge’s restaurant.
Bwana Tembo Safari Camp (Mid-Range/Budget)
This camp is near Tangi Gate, owned by an Italian family. It started in 2012. The camp offers both tents and cottages.
All rooms have private verandas and solar-heated water. Meals follow Italian style.
Budongo Eco Lodge (Budget)
This lodge is in Budongo Forest, within the park. It offers simple budget accommodation for group travelers.
It is one of the best budget lodges in the park and second to Red Chilli.
Shoebill Campsite (Budget)
This campsite is near the park entrance and offers peaceful views of the Nile. At night, you can hear hippos and see stars. Bring your own tent.
You can also buy meals from nearby Nile Safari Lodge and use its swimming pool.
Masindi Hotel (Budget)
This is the oldest hotel in Uganda, built in 1923. It is 2 hours from the park. Famous people like Ernest Hemingway and Katherine Hepburn once stayed here. It is a good option for those staying in Masindi Town.
All the lodges listed above offer good service. I will update this list if any changes occur. Luxury travelers should choose Chobe or Paraa. Budget travelers should consider Red Chilli or Shoebill Campsite. If you are staying in Masindi, choose Masindi Hotel.
Avoid very cheap places that charge around $30–$40. They may have broken beds, dirty sheets, or even bedbugs. Budget travelers should plan for at least $100 per night.
If you book through a tour operator, ask if they own any lodges or get special rates. This could help you save money. You can also check TripAdvisor reviews for each lodge.
Caution: Never walk alone at night. Wild animals may roam near the lodges. Also, the Nile has many hippos and crocodiles. Follow all safety rules during your stay.
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