Queen Elizabeth vs. Murchison Falls: Which National Park Is Better for a Safari?

Queen Elizabeth National Park vs Murchison Falls National Park are two of Uganda’s most popular and frequently visited parks. Both offer exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities and a variety of safari activities, including game drives, bird watching, boat rides, and cultural experiences. In this article, as Alpha rent a car experienced Uganda safari company, we aim to help you decide which park best suits your interests. Ideally, visiting both parks will provide the most comprehensive experience.

Activities in Queen Elizabeth vs. Murchison (Comparison)

Here’s a detailed comparison of Queen Elizabeth and Murchison Falls National Parks.

Boat Cruises

Both parks offer unique boat cruises that allow you to spot wildlife along the rivers. In Murchison Falls National Park, the boat cruise along the Nile lasts about three hours, with the highlight being the stunning Murchison Falls. You can also combine this with a hike to the top of the falls. In contrast, the two-hour boat ride on Kazinga Channel in Queen Elizabeth National Park offers views of hippos, crocodiles, buffalo, elephants, and various bird species.

Game Drives

Game drives are a primary activity in both parks, with Murchison Falls often considered superior due to its longer tracks and higher wildlife concentrations. Drives last about four hours, particularly in the northern section, which is rich in savannah grasslands. Queen Elizabeth’s game drives last approximately three hours and are conducted mainly in the Kasenyi plains, where wildlife is abundant.

Chimpanzee Trekking

Chimpanzee trekking is a highlight in both parks. Queen Elizabeth has a small population of habituated chimps in Kyambura Gorge, while Murchison offers more opportunities in Budongo Forest, where about 100 chimps can be found. For those looking for a more immersive experience, chimp habituation is available in Murchison.

Bird Watching

Murchison Falls boasts over 350 bird species, making it a great spot for bird watching year-round. Queen Elizabeth, however, is the best birding destination in Uganda, with 612 species. Birders can explore various areas, including Katwe and Maragambo forests, with the best times being March to May and October to November.

Extra Activities

Murchison Falls offers a wider range of activities, including rhino tracking at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, sport fishing, and hiking. Queen Elizabeth is known for community activities and scenic hikes.

Scenery: Queen Elizabeth vs. Murchison

While Murchison has more wildlife, Queen Elizabeth is renowned for its breathtaking scenery, characterized by rolling hills, valleys, and crater lakes along the Albertine Rift Valley. If you’re seeking landscape adventures beyond wildlife viewing, Queen Elizabeth is the better choice. Murchison offers beautiful views of the Nile and the impressive Murchison Falls.

Accommodation

Murchison Falls has a range of accommodations from budget to luxury, including Chobe Safari Lodge and Nile Safari Lodge. Queen Elizabeth also offers diverse options, such as Kazinga Wilderness Safari Camp and Eshama Game Lodge.

Accessibility: Murchison vs. Queen Elizabeth

Murchison Falls is about 307 kilometers from Kampala, taking around four hours by road. Alternatively, flights from Kajjansi or Entebbe to Bugungu or Pakuba Airstrip are available. Queen Elizabeth, however, is an eight-hour drive and may involve stopovers along the way. Flights from Entebbe to nearby airstrips also exist.

Key Facts

Murchison Falls National Park

• Established in 1952, it is Uganda’s first and largest national park.
• Home to two significant forests: Kaniyo Pabidi and Budongo.
• Renowned for the filming of “The African Queen.”

Queen Elizabeth National Park

• Home to over 600 bird species and large populations of buffalo, elephants, and hippos.
• Famous for the tree-climbing lions in the Ishasha sector, which are believed to climb trees to rest and hunt.

Booking a safari in Uganda to both Queen Elizabeth national park and Murchison falls 

Booking with Alpha Rent a Car makes your travel in Uganda a breeze. Our friendly team is here to help you choose from a wide range of vehicles, perfect for your self-drive adventures or guided tours. With flexible rental options and great rates, you’ll have the freedom to explore stunning places like Queen Elizabeth and Murchison Falls National Parks at your own pace. Let’s get you on the road—reserve your vehicle today!