Camping in Murchison Falls National Park | Where to Camp in Murchison Falls National Park |  What to Expect When Camping in the Park.

There’s something truly special about sleeping outdoors, where the sounds of nature become your lullaby, like the distant rumble of elephants and the calls of various birds at night. If you’re looking for a travel experience that goes beyond the usual safari lodge, camping in Murchison Falls National Park offers a wonderful chance to connect with Uganda’s stunning natural beauty.

Murchison Falls National Park is Uganda’s largest and oldest wildlife area, featuring a beautiful mix of grasslands, riverside forests, and the impressive Nile River. While going on game drives and boat trips are must-do activities here, camping adds an extra element of adventure, putting you right in the middle of this incredible landscape.

Whether you’re a backpacker on a road trip, a nature lover craving some peace, or a traveler on a budget hoping to make your visit longer, camping in Murchison Falls National Park provides an amazing experience filled with unforgettable moments, breathtaking views, and a close-up encounter with the wild rhythms of nature.

Why Choose Camping in Murchison Falls?

Camping in Murchison Falls National Park isn’t just about saving money; it’s about experience. Unlike traditional lodges, camping places you right in the midst of nature. You’ll hear lions roar in the distance, hippos grunt in the night, and birds welcome the sunrise with song.

It’s an entirely different way to experience the park. There’s a certain simplicity to it, no walls, no glass, just you, your tent, and the wild. For photographers, birdwatchers, solo travelers, or backpackers, it’s also a fantastic way to stay longer in the park without blowing your budget.

And yet, even though it’s rustic, it doesn’t mean sacrificing safety or comfort. There are well-managed campsites, basic facilities, and opportunities to rent gear or join guided trips. It’s wild but not reckless.

Where to Camp in Murchison Falls National Park

There are several designated campsites in and around the park, each offering its own unique advantages depending on your travel style and safari route.

Red Chilli Rest Camp

One of the most popular options for camping in Murchison Falls National Park is Red Chili Rest Camp. Located just a few minutes from the Paraa ferry crossing, this well-established site caters to both budget travelers and overlanders. They offer: Shaded, secure areas for pitching your own tent, Clean shared showers and toilets, A bar and restaurant serving cold drinks and hot meals, Campfire area to relax after a long day.y

You can also rent tents and basic bedding here if you’re not traveling with your own gear. Red Chili is a great base for game drives in the northern sector, boat cruises, or visiting the top of the falls.

UWA Campsites

The Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) manages several basic but scenic campsites within the park. These are ideal for true bush lovers who want to get off the beaten track. Some options include:

• Delta Campsite (near the Nile Delta area, great for birding)
• Sambiya River Lodge Campsite (near the top of the falls)
• Chobe Campsite (northern sector, near Chobe Safari Lodge)

These sites usually have pit latrines, basic water access, and require you to bring your own gear and food. Rangers are typically nearby for safety, and UWA can arrange an armed escort if you’re in a remote spot.

Camping in these areas truly brings you closer to the wi;d, expect to wake up to giraffes passing nearby or monkeys peeking at your tent.

What to Expect When Camping in the Park

Wildlife Encounters

When you camp in Murchison Falls, you’re not separated from nature; you’re part of it. While campsites are generally safe, you may have curious visitors like Warthogs and baboons wandering by your camp, Hippos grazing nearby at night, or the distant calls of lions or hyenas.s

Always follow ranger instructions and never leave food outside your tent. At night, stay inside your shelter and use a flashlight when walking to facilities.

Best Time for Camping in Murchison Falls National Park

The best time to camp is during the dry seasons from December to February and June to September. These months offer cooler nights, manageable heat, and better wildlife viewing conditions as animals gather near water sources.

Camping is possible in the wet season too (March–May and October–November), but expect heavy rains, muddy roads, and increased insects. Be sure to pack waterproof gear and choose elevated, well-drained campsites.

What to Pack for a Camping Safari

• Sturdy tent and groundsheet (or rent one from Red Chilli)
• Sleeping bag and mat
• Cooking equipment (if going self-catering)
• Headlamp, matches, and portable stove
• Snacks and plenty of water
• Power bank or solar charger
• Binoculars and d camera
• Lightweight clothing and warm layers for night
• Insect repellent and mosquito netting
• First-aid kit and personal hygiene items

In conclusion, camping in Murchison Falls National Park is one of those rare travel experiences that truly changes how you see the world. It’s raw, grounding, and deeply rewarding. Whether you’re sharing stories around a campfire, watching giraffes stroll by at sunrise, or listening to the distant crash of the falls, every moment becomes a memory.