Murchison Falls National Park has a variety of accommodation facilities ranging from budget, mid range, luxury and first class accommodation facilities. These are categorized into classes such as 3 stars, 4 star, and 5 star. The most popular lodges are found in the central Paraa area of the Park where the Victoria Nile joins Lake Albert. These include some the following;
Paraa Safari Lodge
Reconstructed in 1997 out of the shell of the original 1959 lodge, This accommodation in Murchison Falls National Park has decor inspired by a former era of exploration of the Nile. Its tranquil outdoor pool appeared in one of the Hollywood classic, ‘The African Queen’. This lodge is a great option for families or first-time visitors to Uganda who want to experience a safari in luxury, comfort and style.
Paraa Safari Lodge is the largest hotel in the Murchison Falls National Park. with over 54 rooms, and it occupies a prime site on the north bank of the Nile. Each room has an in suite bathroom, a large window, and a private balcony with captivating views of the winding Nile river. Guests enjoy complimentary parking, Wi-Fi, and bed and breakfast at the restaurant.
The Lodge offers a broad range of accommodation that caters for a number of its guests.
Standard Rooms; Choice is among comfortable single, double, and twin rooms. Each room is inspired by a simple safari atmosphere and includes an en-suite bathroom. The balcony is positioned to give you a panoramic view of the meandering Nile.
Suites; The guests who enjoy being in more spacious spaces, Paraa’s Suites include a living room with a couche. After a busy day at Murchison, you find your favourite nightcap in the minibar and drink it while on the balcony listening to the splashing hippos.
Queen’s Cottage; Paraa’s deluxe accommodation offers unparalleled comfort. The grand balcony will provide stunning views of the Nile and Paraa’s lush vegetation. Enjoy a tea and coffee service in your large living room and relax on the cosy king-sized bed.
Safari Tents; Paraa has 3 Safari Tents which are comfortable for an authentic safari camping experience. The interiors are tastefully decorated and the contrast between the modern interiors and linen exteriors gives the tents a unique style and character.
Pakuba Safari Lodge
Pakuba Safari Lodge is one of the best mid-range option in Murchison Falls. The lodges near to the Albert Nile in the northwest provide the greatest choice of budget options. Of these, Pakuba has the best location.
The three-star suburban lodge is situated on the east bank of the Albert Nile. The lodge is a modern incarnation of the former state lodge that was previously visited by Idi Amin, and its ruins can still be seen. Pakuba is a short distance from the Tangi Gate of Murchison Falls National Park.
After a fast-paced day at the Park, you can cool off in its outdoor pool or sip your favourite tipple at the lodge’s fully stocked bar. You may prefer to sit at your window and take in the scenic wilderness views. Fortunate guests may see animals such as a warthog, or even a giraffe from the lodge.
Pakuba Safari Lodge offers a range of exciting excursions. Choose between a morning, afternoon, or nocturnal game drive in Murchison Falls National Park.
A complimentary English breakfast served from 06:30am to 10:00am will fuel you for a day full of activities.
The Pakuba Safari Lodge Conference Room is a great location for team meetings or team-building exercises. Its outdoor pool offers outstanding views of the meandering Nile.
All rooms have a private balcony with excellent views of the Albert Nile and a refreshing evening breeze.
The lodge offers great value for money and its 32 Double/Twin rooms and 4 Family rooms are all spacious and furnished. The Family rooms include two separate rooms which share an interconnecting door, making them perfect for families with children.
All rooms include complimentary Wi-Fi and room service, several charging points, a reading corner, mosquito nets, and a closet.
The swimming pool is the perfect place to cool off in the hotter months. The restaurant is run by experienced chefs and friendly waiters who provide excellent service. Adventurers who wish to sample an authentic dining experience should try the bush lunch or dinner. Our favourite is the bush dinner. Feasting on delicately seasoned meats as you watch the picturesque sunset is an unforgettable experience.
Chobe Safari Lodge
Located on the northern bank of the River Nile, this Five-Star lodge offers sweeping views of the Nile. The lodge offers a wide range of accommodation and guests can choose between 36 charming guest rooms, 21 luxury tents, 4 suites, and a Presidential Cottage.
Chobe’s outdoor pool has 3 tiers, allowing its guests to soak up the scenery from different perspectives. The Karama restaurant offers a delicious menu of local and international cuisines. Its terrace provides a spectacular all fresco dining experience.
The Chobe Health Club and Spa is the perfect place to reflect and revitalize after a day exploring the park.
The 5-star lodge provides a memorable setting for special occasions like birthdays and weddings.
The Nile Conference Centre is perfect for conferences, corporate functions, and smaller board meetings.
Its fully equipped gym overlooks the Nile. It even featured in CNN’s list ‘10 Gyms With The Most Amazing Views’ in 2011. The lodge offers a broad range of accommodation and guests can choose between 36 charming guest rooms, 21 luxury tents, 4 suites, and a Presidential Cottage.
The Presidential Cottage brims with luxury. A private butler is on call 24 hours a day and its balcony and terraces overlook the cottage’s exclusive lagoon, where guests can watch the bathing buffaloes and elephants.
For guests who wish to try a different style of accommodation, Super Deluxe Tents offer a unique experience. Merging canvas with thatched roofs, the Super Deluxe tents combine the intimacy of a camping experience with the grandeur of luxury accommodation. The Chobe Health Club and Spa is the perfect place to relax after a day of activities.
Chobe’s outdoor pool is split into 3 tiers, allowing its guests to appreciate the magnificent view of the Nile from different perspectives.
The Karama restaurant offers a delicious menu of local and international cuisines and its terrace provides a spectacular all fresco dining experience. Performances from traditional dancers at barbecues will make your stay extra special.
The decor of the Karuma Bar reflects a blend of modern and Safari themes and it is stocked with a range of drinks. The Chobe Health Club and Spa is the perfect location to recuperate after a busy day of exploration at Murchison Falls National Park.
Baker’s Lodge
Baker’s Lodge is a popular luxury option in Murchison. The south bank of the Nile has an increasing number of small, high-quality options. Named after English explorer Samuel Baker, the lodge provides luxury yet traditional African accommodation and has direct river access.
Opened in 2015, the rooms are generously proportioned, a charming combination of canvas and thatch built out from a communal dining room. As well as offering complimentary parking, Wi-Fi, and breakfasts, the lodge provides unmissable views of the Nile. For those wishing to explore the local cuisine, you can even request a delicious bush breakfast.
The lodge sits right on the shores of the river Nile which makes it a great base for boat safaris and game drives around the park. The open, airy, and spacious central building and private rooms are great to relax and watch the hippos playing in the river just in front of you.
The team really know what they are doing; the lodge runs seamlessly and excursions organized directly by, or in conjunction with, the lodge never miss a beat. A real traveller favourite.
You can expect to see an impressive range of animal and bird life along the edge of the Nile. Hippos and elephants are often VIP guests on the edge of the lodge’s grounds.
On-site jetty provides access to the lodge’s fleet of watercraft. Excursions include trips to the base of Murchison Falls or The Nile Delta on Lake Albert.
On-site vehicles can be reserved for Chimpanzee trekking in the Budongo Forest, a 60-90-minute drive from the lodge. Its on-site curio shop sells a range of local crafts to commemorate your stay.
Baker’s Lodge is situated on the south bank of the Nile and you can hear the hippos splashing around from your spacious room. The Nile flows through Murchison Falls National Park for a distance of 120km on its journey from Lake Victoria to the Mediterranean Sea.
The lodge is perfectly situated for boat safaris and game drives, and is a popular base for exploring Murchison Falls.
The lodge offers 10 spacious Safari Suites which combine canvas, wood, and thatch. Each generously proportioned cottage has its own deck that overlooks the Nile. All rooms are close to the banks of the Nile and guests often see the lodge’s VIP hippo guests in the shallows.
All cottages all feature en-suite bathrooms with solar-heated showers, and some even have bathtubs with a view of the Nile. Solar lighting is another eco-friendly feature that makes this lodge perfect for the environmentally conscious guests.
The thatched central lounge, bar and dining area is raised with wooden decks all around, providing panoramic views of the sunrise and sunset. On sunny days, you can indulge in al-fresco dining beside the Nile.
The swimming pool is positioned to offer unmissable views of the Nile. The perfect recovery after a long day at Murchison is to cool off in the pool, refuel in the restaurant, and relax in the bar.
Budongo Eco Lodge
Venturing further south, accommodation is available alongside the main road that runs between Masindi and Paraa. While these lodges do not have Nile frontage, they provide great access to the forests of Budongo, home to a myriad of bird-life and over 600 chimpanzees.
The Budongo Ecolodge, located 8km north of the Kichambanyobo Gate, is the most popular place to stay. Originally the research station for the Jane Goodall Institute, it has been renovated to provide a pleasant and comfortable base for forest exploration.
The lodge is intimate, offering five comfortable cabins and four large dormitory rooms for larger groups. Its on-site visitor centre is very informative about the local area, and it showcases ancient fossils. The lodge’s craft shop sells handmade gifts to commemorate your stay.
Wonderful Location; Tucked away in the Budongo Forest Reserve in Murchison Falls National Park, Budongo Eco Lodge is perfectly situated for some well-earned respite. Secluded cabins underneath the canopy of old mahogany trees make you feel like you are the only ones there, allowing you to unwind completely.
Activities; Don’t mistake quiet for boring though, Budongo Eco Lodge offers many exciting activities. You can trek through the thick forest undergrowth to see the chimpanzees who habituate the forest or head out on a game drive across dry savannah grasslands and even take a cruise down the Nile River.
Low environmental impact; Built with sustainability in mind and local materials, Budongo Eco Lodge easily blends in with its natural forest surroundings, without creating long-lasting damage.
Birdwatchers Haven; Private verandas with exquisite views of the forest are perfect for quietly observing the various bird species present in the woods, so make sure you have your binoculars ready, as you’re unlikely to be disappointed.
Rich History; Budongo Eco Lodge was originally a base for the renowned chimpanzee conservationist, Jane Goodall and her institute. The lodge has many fossils from the forest on display, which provide interesting context on the roots of the forest.
Blending with their natural surroundings, Budongo Eco Lodge offers five cosy cabins with private verandas, en-suite bathrooms, and fully equipped with shower, washbasin and composting toilets.
These cabins are perfect for those who value seclusion and a quiet atmosphere.
For larger groups, there are 4 dormitory-style rooms, with comfortable bunk beds, mosquito nets and shared bathroom facilities are an excellent choice too. These are also great for those looking to stay on a budget, as they are the more affordable option.
Budongo Eco Lodge has an excellent restaurant, serving a variety of international and local dishes.
Guests can sit on the veranda where they will be immersed in the rainforest’s magical sounds, and if they choose, they can also enjoy freshly brewed Ugandan coffee, which the lodge takes pride in serving every day.
Budongo Eco Lodge also has a visitors centre showcasing old fossils, local artefact and old poaching relics. The centre is a great place to learn about the mysterious rain forest’s secrets or relax in the comfortable lounge area. There is also a small curio shop where you can buy local crafts.
Budongo Eco Lodge is the best of both world; you don’t have to choose between experiencing the savannah or forest. It is perfectly situated to enjoy both.
You can either trek through the forest observing the chimpanzees in their natural habitat or head out on a game drive across the vast savannah grasslands in search of the big five, or even feel the pure magnificence of Murchison Falls with a river cruise or hike in the surrounding area.
Twiga Safari Lodge
A unique option for travellers who are seeking a unique style of accommodation. Just up the hill from their neighbours Baker’s Lodge, Twiga Safari Lodge provides a contemporary take on a tented camp, combining canvas with solid construction. The lodge has a great location. It is only a five-minute drive from the Paraa ferry crossing to Murchison Falls National Park. Its on-site African craft shop will fascinate any art lover.
The lodge offers bespoke accommodation. Enjoy a safari camping adventure under the comfort of a thatched roof.
The lodge is home to an exciting range of wildlife. Monkeys, birds, and even grazing hippos reside around the grounds of the lodge.
Twiga’s mid-range accommodation is a fusion of Safari camping tents and thatched African cottages. Its 8 private cottages are located on the bank of the river Nile in Mubaako Paraa, opposite the Murchison Falls National Park. Monkeys, birds, and even hippos are frequently seen around the grounds of the lodge.
In addition to offering free high-speed Wi-Fi and parking, the lodge has its own restaurant, bar, and gift shop.
Twiga Safari Lodge is perfect for travellers who want to escape the ordinary and try a new style of accommodation. Twiga Safari Lodge provides a contemporary take on a tented Safari camp, combining canvas tents with solid, thatched roofs.
The lodge has 8 private cottages and guests can choose between a single, twin, or triple room. Each cottage is slightly elevated to maximize its view of the Nile’s crystal waters. Guests can drift off to the comforting melody of munching hippos and plodding elephants.
The Twiga Safari Lodge Restaurant serves a range of mouth-watering continental meals that will help you to refuel after a busy day of activities. The bar and restaurant are designed to offer delightful views of the Nile and Murchison Falls National Park. Whether you choose to quench your thirst with a cool beverage or sit back and absorb the view, you will certainly feel more relaxed at the end of your meal.
The lodge has a tranquil ambience which helps to relieve you of unnecessary stress. The lodge also offers free high-speed Wi-Fi and free parking.
Murchison River Lodge
Located on the south bank of the River Nile, Murchison River Lodge is a family-run lodge which offers panoramic views of the Nile and Murchison Falls National Park.
The lodge was established by Chris and Georgie, a couple who wanted to provide quality accommodation for all travellers, regardless of their budget. The staff provides excellent service, including an evening escort from the restaurant to your accommodation since hippos often wander into the grounds at night.
Murchison River Lodge prides itself on its sustainability, and it runs entirely off solar power. The lodge also seeks to empower its local community and the on-site restaurant mainly uses locally sourced ingredients.
Murchison River Lodge prides itself on sustainability and its empowerment of the local community.
The staff provide excellent service, including an evening escort from the restaurant to your accommodation since hippos often wander into the grounds at night.
The lodge is eco-friendly and runs off solar power, this includes solar water pumps for the swimming pool and solar lights.
The restaurant mainly uses locally sourced ingredients, such as buying its meat from a local butchery in Jinja.
The lodge was established by Chris and Georgie, a couple who wanted to create an inclusive environment for travellers, regardless of their budget. The lodge offers a broad range of accommodation.
Thatched Cottages; Open plan, spacious accommodation that is perfect for families or a group of 4 adults. Each cottage has two single beds downstairs and a double bed on a mezzanine floor. Our favourite feature of the cottage is the hammock on the veranda which is a great place to take in the stunning landscape.
Thatched Safari Tents; Nestled between trees, these twin shared tents seamlessly blend into their surroundings. Enjoy a safari camping experience which reconciles comfort with an awareness of your natural surroundings.
River Tents; Situated just metres away from the Nile, these twin shared tents offer a breath-taking view.
Campsite; Suitable for adventurers who have their own camping equipment. There are many excellent spots that allow you to get close to the wildlife that surrounds you.
The restaurant provides a range of delicious food. Partaking in its complimentary afternoon tea from 4-6pm is a great way to wind down after an active day.
The lodge bar is fully stocked, allowing you to end your night with your favourite nightcap. The shallow end of the lodge swimming pool is covered by a roof to give you a reprieve from the sun.
Nile Safari Lodge
Situated on the south bank of the Nile, Nile Safari Lodge is an eco-friendly, family-owned lodge which opened in 2017.
The lodge has a unique aesthetic. The accommodation is designed to blend the boundaries between inside and outside, and it seamlessly integrates with its stunning natural surroundings. The lodge was primarily built by expert local craftsmen who used natural materials.
Water is sourced from the Nile and filtered to drinking quality by a UV filtration system. Luxuries such as private fridges are solar-powered, making the lodge perfect for environmentally conscious travellers.
Nile Safari Lodge makes good use of its natural surroundings. Water from the Nile River is filtered into drinking water. Safari luxuries like private fridges are solar-powered, and the lodge was built using local wood and craftsmanship.
Minimally intrusive design: elegantly crafted with local stones, eucalyptus wood, grass-thatched roofs and an open-plan layout, this lodge seamlessly blends in with the scenery, without compromising comfort or aesthetics. Situated within floating distance of Murchison Falls, Nile Safari Lodge is the perfect luxury base to explore the park. In case you are looking for accommodation with a personal touch and great attention to the little details, you don’t need to look much further than Nile Safari Lodge. Scattered between tall trees and thick shrub, Nile Safari Lodge offers guests a secluded sanctuary. Eight en-suite thatched-roof bandas – each with a spacious seating area, day bed, and indoor and outdoor showers – provides guests with complete privacy and comfort, so all you need to do is relax and enjoy the exquisite view of the Nile from your private viewing deck.
Ideal for families and larger groups, the family villa accommodates eight people with a living room, private swimming pool, lunch service and spectacular views of the Shoebill Peninsula.
Enjoy a romantic evening under the stars. If you opt for an exclusive bandas, you can enjoy the private plunge pool the perfect choice for honeymooners and couples.
Guests have the choice of dining in the restaurant, on the terrace or underneath the shaded pergola.
For those wanting a more intimate experience, a candlelit dinner on your private deck can be arranged for you. The lodge restaurant provides delicious international dishes with a safari twist, and fresh-baked bread and pastries every day.
Spend the hot afternoons unwinding with a cooling swim in the infinity pool, or lounge on the sunbeds with an ice-cold cocktail from the bar. Wi-Fi and hot water are all powered by solar. Nile River Lodge is superbly located to explore everything Murchison Falls National Park has to offer.
Starting with an early morning wake-up call, head out on to a game drive before enjoying a picnic under the shade of an acacia tree – safaris in Murchison are the quintessential Africa experience.
For nature lovers, a short hike to the top of Murchison Falls, and a river cruise down the Nile is a fantastic way to experience the serenity and untamed beauty of the park.
Next, head into the Budongo Forest Reserve and trek through the thick forest undergrowth in search of chimps in their natural habitat.
Sambiya River Lodge
Sambiya River Lodge is a newly renovated mid-range lodge situated only 15 minutes from the top of the magnificent Murchison Falls. It is the perfect location for those who want to experience the tranquility of unspoiled Africa, untouched by mass tourism. Sambiya River Lodge’s unique charm is in the atmosphere of intimacy provided to the guests, surrounded by a vast number of beautiful trees. Guests stay in any of the 24 cottages designed as individual and family cottages which have en suite bathrooms, fans, screened doors & windows and a veranda to relax and enjoy the commanding views of quintessential Africa.
Accommodation in Sambiya River Lodge
The Sambiya River Lodge offers superb lodging in the 20 thatched cottages with:
1 or 2 bedrooms
Twin or double beds
Each bedroom with own private bathroom facilities
A veranda from which guests can relax and enjoy some peace & tranquility
10 thatched Bandas with shared bathroom facility
All rooms providing Mosquito Nets
All rooms are self contained
Sambiya River Lodge Facilities:
The lodge is founded on eco-friendly principles.
Solar Water Heaters provide warm showers
A generator to provide electricity
Re-chargeable emergency lights
Sambiya lodge is also equipped with:
Lodge Dining Area
Swimming Pool
Lodge Telescope for Stargazing
Sambiya lodge is also equipped with Lodge Dining Area, Swimming Pool, Lodge Telescope for Stargazing
Recreational Activities at Sambiya
Bird Walks, Fishing at the Sambiya River, Game viewing, Fishing at the Sambiya River, Game viewing
Children
Children under 4 yrs sharing with parents pay only for food ordered from al-a-carte menu
Children 4-7 sharing with parents are charged at 50% of adult rate
Children 8-12 sharing with parents are charged 75% of adult rate
Teenagers 13 + pay full rate