Uganda’s Unique Piece of the Nile— Murchison Falls

WATERFALLS have always captured the attention and admiration of people. The therapeutic sound of the waters crashing on the rocks below and the soft, cool mist that often ascends from the falls provide countless visitors with hours of relaxation.

Murchison Falls in Uganda is no exception. The Nile River extends over 4,000 miles (6,400 km), and some call these falls the river’s most spectacular feature. True, they do not have the height of Angel Falls in South America or the water volume of Victoria Falls in Africa or Niagara Falls in North America. Yet the beauty and power of Murchison Falls leave a lasting impression.
A History of Murchison Falls

Murchison Falls is just one feature of the 1,483-square-mile (3,841 sq km) area that makes up Murchison Falls National Park. The park, located in northwestern Uganda, was established in 1952.

Upon rounding the corner, a magnificent sight burst suddenly upon you. . . . The fall of water is snow white, which had a superb effect as it contrasted with the dark cliffs that wall the river, while the graceful palms of the tropics and wild plantains perfect the beauty of the view. This is the greatest waterfall of the Nile.

Ways to View Them

A fine way to view the falls is by boat. The ride originates at the Paraa launch site and provides visitors with the thrilling experience of cruising the Nile while observing wild animals from a comfortable distance. Hippopotamuses are commonly sighted but so are large African elephants, crocodiles, and buffalo. The magnificent Nile wildlife may even cause a visitor temporarily to forget his goal of seeing the falls. But once he reaches the snow-white waters that seemingly explode through the rocks.

Although many visitors thoroughly enjoy the view of the falls from a boat, the view from above has its own special enchantment. Some consider it the best. From there one can see the 160-foot-wide (49 m) Nile forced into an opening approximately 20 feet wide (6 m) and then cascade 130 feet (40 m). This has been described as “one of the most powerful surges of water found anywhere in the world.” Visitors at times feel a slight tremble in the ground as the water gushes through to the other side.


Each year, thousands are thrilled by the breathtaking beauty and power of this spectacular sight. Seeing the force of these waters as they cascade to the depths below is an experience not readily forgotten. Murchison Falls is indeed a unique part of the Nile.