Weather and climate of Murchison Falls National Park : Murchison Falls National Park largest national park in Uganda, covering approximately 3,893 square kilometers. Established in 1926 as a game reserve, believed to be the oldest national park in Uganda for a Uganda Safari. Its is located in the northwestern park os the country. The Park is named after the world’s powerful waterfalls on the river at a narrow cleft in the Rift Valley Escarpment, then it is transformed into a froth of thunderous white water, with no comparison to any other site in East Africa. This remarkable park is characterized by savannah, riverine forest and woodland.
The park is blessed with variety of animals such as the African elephant that may even come to your lodge, buffaloes, the Rothschild giraffes, hippopotamuses, the Nile crocodiles, hartebeests, waterbucks, the Ugandan Kob, warthogs and all the different types of antelopes. The park is also the home of 450 species of birds that are commonly seen in the park, from aquatic birds such as the giant kingfisher to land birds such as weaver birds and sandpipers. Murchison falls national park is the ideal destination to find almost all the animals you desire to see.
The climate in Murchison Falls National Park is tropical and hot. Temperatures are quite uniform throughout the year. Daytime temperatures typically peak at around 30 Degree Celsius /86 Degree Fahrenheit, cooling down at night to about 19 Degree Celsius /66 Degree Fahrenheit. The Wet season runs from March to November, with a drier period from June to July. There is little rain during the Dry season (December to February).
Dry Season–December to February
- December, January and February
Murchison Falls National Park experiences a dry and hot climate, especially during the months of December, January, and February. During this time, the sun shines brightly, and the skies are mostly clear. It’s the hottest period of the year, with daytime temperatures reaching around 31 Degree Celsius (88 Degree Fahrenheit. However, when the night falls, it feels much cooler, dropping to about 20 Degree Celsius (68 Degree Fahrenheit).
Wet Season–March to November
Murchison Falls National Park experiences a climate that is somewhat drier compared to other areas in Uganda, even during the wet season. However, it’s not uncommon for the park to encounter sudden, heavy rainstorms from time to time. These downpours can bring a refreshing change to the usually warm and dry conditions, offering a different glimpse of the park’s natural beauty.
- March, April and May
In Murchison Falls National Park, the weather takes a noticeable turn in March. The rainy season begins, and you’ll see more clouds filling the sky. Both April and May continue this trend, with each month receiving over 130 millimetres (about 5 inches) of rain on average. During the day, temperatures hover around 30 Degree Celsius (86 Degree Fahrenheit), giving you warm, sunny afternoons. When night falls, it cools down to a comfortable 20 Degree Celsius (68 Degree Fahrenheit), making the evenings quite pleasant.
- June and July
In June and July, Murchison Falls National Park experiences a period where it doesn’t rain as much, although you might still see some showers. During the day, the weather is warm, with temperatures sitting around 29 Degree Celsius, which feels quite pleasant at 84 Degree Fahrenheit.
- August, September, October and November
Murchison Falls National Park experiences its heaviest rainfall during August, September, October, and November, with October being the wettest month of all. While it doesn’t rain every day, when it does rain, it often pours down in intense storms. By November, you’ll notice that the temperatures gradually begin to rise.
Frequently asked questions about weather and climate of Murchison Falls National Park alongside its safaris.
What is the weather like in Murchison Falls National Park?
Murchison Falls National Park has a tropical climate, characterized by a wet and dry season. The wet season mainly runs from August to November, with October receiving the most rain. During this time, you can expect heavy showers, often in the form of storms. The dry season, from December to February, offers warmer and drier conditions, making it a great time for wildlife viewing. Regardless of the season, temperatures usually stay comfortable, making it a perfect destination for nature enthusiasts and adventurers alike.
What should I pack for a safari in Murchison Falls?
When heading out for a Uganda safari in Murchison Falls, it’s essential to pack wisely. Some of the most important items to pack for a safari here includes Binoculars and camera, Sunglasses and Contact lenses, Insect Repellent to protect you against flees, mosquitoes and even tsetse flies in the wilderness, waterproof boots, sandals and warm stockings, Cash and Credit, Travel and health Insurance, Immunization card for yellow fever, Visa, First-Aid Kit. Other essentials include shampoos, deodorant, cleansers, brush/combs, lip balm, toothbrush/toothpaste, a small towel and toilet paper.
Can I see wildlife during the wet season?
Yes, you can definitely see wildlife during the wet season in Murchison Falls National Park. While some animals may be harder to spot as they seek shelter during heavy rain, the lush landscapes attract many species, making this a unique time for wildlife viewing. Animals like chimpanzees, giraffes, elephants, lions, leopards, spotted hyenas, Kobs, bushbucks, waterbucks, oribi, and jackals. The park is also the home of 450 species of birds that are commonly seen in the park. some of these birds include ark Chanting-Goshawk, Martial Eagle, Hugli’s Francolin, Denham’s Bustard, Spotted Thick-knee, Senegal Thick-knee, Rock Pratincole, Black-headed Plover, Pennant-winged Nightjar, Blue-naped Moosebird, Giant Kingfisher, Pied Kingfisher, Malachite Kingfisher, Swallow-tailed Bee-eater, African Darter among others. The wet season also means there’s a higher likelihood of seeing newborn animals. Just be prepared for sudden rain showers and stay alert, as the wildlife remains active even in the wet conditions.
Are there guided tours available in Murchison Falls National Park?
Yes, Murchison Falls National Park offers various guided tours, which are highly recommended for the best experience. Guided Uganda tours provide knowledgeable guides who can lead you through the forest, pointing out unique flora and fauna that you might miss on your own. These Uganda tours often focus on Game drives North of river Nile and at Lake Albert Delta, Sportfishing on the river Nile above and below you can also embark chimpanzee tracking, birdwatching and also exploring the hidden gems of Kanyinyo Pabidi Forest Reserve among others.
What are the accommodation facilities available here?
Murchison Falls National Park has various accommodation options available within and outside the park, catering to different budgets. These accommodation ranges from luxury, mid-range and budget. Some of these accommodations available here includes Akuba safari lodge, Paraa safari lodge, Chobe safari lodge, Kabalega wilderness lodge, Sambiya River Lodge, Murchison falls bamboo village, Twiga safari lodge, Baker’s lodge, Murchison River lodge, Fort Murchison, Red chili rest camp, Murchinson tree house, Nile safari lodge, Heritage safari lodge and Budongo eco-lodge. Accommodation at Murchison falls national park makes you feel at home.
