Wildlife Drives
Wildlife Drives are mainly enjoyed on the “Northern” bank of the Nile River. An expansive savannah area cumulating in the papyrus-fringed delta, where the river flows into Lake Albert. A short drive over the new Nile river bridge at Paraa transports guests to this area where there are fair chances of spotting; elephant, giraffe, buffalo, lion, leopard, hyena, various species of antelope as well as a variety of bird life. Recently opened safari trails on the “Southern” bank offer up a different, bushier terrain and can be enjoyed by guests from Anyadwe House lodge when also visiting the top of the waterfalls or Budongo Forest area.
Boat Safaris to Murchison Falls
A fleet of water-craft run scheduled and private cruises daily, directly from our private Anyadwe House jetty to the park’s centrepiece – the stunning Murchison Falls in Fajao Gorge. An approximate 3 hours on the water offers excellent safari viewing to and from the falls, the boats offering the opportunity to witness up-close the teeming hippo and crocodile populations on the river as well as a plethora of animals and birdlife on the river banks. The cruise can be combined with a safari drive, a hike up the side of the falls and a bush breakfast or luncheon at the Top of the Falls.
Boat Safaris to the Victoria Nile Delta
The Victoria Nile delta, a 17km voyage downstream from Baker’s Lodge, is home to rare wetland birds including shoebill and papyrus endemic species. Morning cruises offer a visual spectacle of mist rising off the mirror calm-water as our craft navigate the papyrus channels of the delta. Scheduled and private delta cruises depart from our private Anyadwe house jetty with a “breakfast on board” option offered in the mornings (subject to minimum numbers).
Top of Murchison Falls Hiking and Walk
Some of the most powerful moving water in the world, the top of Murchison Falls sees the entirety of the Nile River squeeze itself through a mere 8-meter gap; an epic display of nature’s power. The top of the falls is an open area where guests can view the chasm from multiple angles. A trail down the side of the gorge allows guests to hike down to the bottom, an opportunity to see the main falls from different angles and elevations, as well as the second “Independence” falls. The hike can be done in conjunction with boat cruises to or from the falls (with prior notice).
Sport Fishing
The Nile River at Murchison is famous for its exciting sport fishing. Large, strong Nile Perch living in the turbulent waters below the falls as well as several species of cat fish are fished and a variety of smaller species which are generally used as live bait for the larger fish. Fishing is conducted on a strict “catch-and-release” system and can be done with experienced local fishing guides; from the shore or from boats which are ideally sized and equipped to cope with the conditions and accessing the remote riverside pools.
Chimpanzee Trekking in Budongo Forest
Approximately a 45 minute drive from Anyadwe House is Budongo Forest, home to a community of around 90 wild, yet habituated Chimpanzees whom can be tracked by guests. Tracking is done in the morning or afternoon and generally lasts for half a day. Once located, guests can spend an hour in the presence of the chimpanzees as they go about their daily lives in the forest. Birding walks are also available in addition to Forest walks for children under the minimum trekking age (15 yrs).
Leisure Cruises on The Nile River
In addition to the longer cruises above, shorter “leisure” cruises on The Nile area available, perfect for the end of the day, or to combine with a longer cruise. Options include sunrise and breakfast cruises on the calm water of the morning, as well as sunset, sundowner or wine and cheese cruises in the orange glow of the evening light.