Located just outside Murchison Falls National Park, the shoebill campsite is a low-cost accommodation option that boasts a scenic location right next to the Nile.
The Shoebill Campsite is a low-cost accommodation option that boasts a scenic location on the outskirts of Murchison Falls National Park, right next to the mighty River Nile.
The campsite’s name was inspired by the rare shoebill stork, which may be seen at the Albert delta in Murchison Falls National Park during certain times of the year. The grounds at Shoebill Campsite make for a pleasant place to pitch a tent without breaking the bank.
The Shoebill Campsite is located in the southern area of Murchison Falls National Park near the Nile Safari Lodge, both of which are managed by the same company.
Shoebill Campsite is located close to the entrance to Murchison Falls National Park and is perfect for anyone looking for a remote, wild, and unique camping experience.
The Campsite is the epitome of relaxation and luxury, with its spectacular views of the Nile’s blue waters, the vast open sky, and the park’s animals, including hippos, elephants and giraffes.
You will appreciate the serenity of this location after a day exploring the surrounding area on a game drive as you sit back by the campfire and take in the sights and sounds of night-time wildlife, including the rumbling of hippos and the twinkling of the stars.
Tourists should bring their tents and may choose to cook in, especially if they have brought along their equipment.
Due to the absence of electricity and running water, the campsite is extremely eco-friendly. The campground is favourable to the environment because it does not use any fossil fuels and has no running water or electricity.
Accommodation at Shoebill Campsite
Guests who choose to camp at Shoebill Campsite are recommended to bring their camping equipment. All-inclusive Camping at Shoebill Campsite costs US$ 10.
Meals/Dining at Shoebill Campsite
Guests can prepare their meals if they choose to. However, there is an option of dining at the Nile Safari Lodge’s restaurant, which is only a 2-minute stroll away.
Services offered by Shoebill Campsite
- Campfire: The team at Shoebill Campsite organises and lights a fire in the evening so that their guests can have a spectacular sundowner beneath the starry sky.
- Swimming pool: The swimming pool at the Nile safari lodge is the perfect place to cool off and unwind.
- Access to Nile Safari Lodge’s restaurant and bar
- Communal seating
- 24-hour security
Activities at Shoebill Campsite
Community walk
Take a stroll in the nearby village of Mubako with the help of a local guide. This costs $10 per person.
Cultural Performances
You may immerse yourself in the lively culture of the local people, right down to the native people’s ancient ceremonies.
Members of the Mubako Community Sing and Dance Their Way Through the Night. Around the campfire, members of the Mubako community perform traditional songs and dances.
Game drive
In the comfort of a 4×4 safari vehicle, you may experience the thrill of seeing wildlife in its natural habitat. You will undoubtedly witness the renowned “big four” animals and obtain breathtaking photographs of them.
Visit Murchison Falls
Unquestionably, the highlight of any safari to Murchison Falls National Park is the wildlife drive. The waterfall passes through a 7-meter-deep gorge within the park’s borders.
The launch boat journey upstream is thrilling and offers breathtaking views of the falls and numerous riverbank fauna, including buffaloes, hippos, crocodiles, waterbucks, and birds.
Nile River Cruise
Instead of embarking on a wildlife drive, you might enjoy a thrilling boat ride along the green and lush bends of the enchanted Nile and view the magnificent Murchison Falls. You can also get to see shoebills up close. A boat cruise costs $50.
Brunch at the top of the falls
The most magnificent brunch location imaginable. Imagine this: you’re standing in front of the most spectacular waterfall in Uganda, with a glass of champagne and a warm croissant.
Hiking to the waterfalls
Hiking is the only way to get close to the Falls. Hiking to the top of Murchison Falls, followed by a boat ride down the Nile River, is the pinnacle of tranquilly and raw beauty.
Fishing
You can engage in sport fishing in Murchison Falls National Park to complement your adventure in the African wilderness. Any serious angler who is also excited about Uganda and in love with the country is in for a treat.
Bird watching
Uganda is a birdwatcher’s paradise because it is home to over 1,100 different species of birds. Among them are the modest and lovely Shoebill Stork, Crested Crane, African Fish Eagle, and Abyssinian Ground Hornbill.
Chimpanzee Tracking
It is not far from the Shoebill campsite to Budongo forest, where chimpanzees are tracked. This is the largest Mahogany Forest in East Africa and the largest habitat for chimpanzees in Uganda.
Rhino Trekking
Rhinos are the second-largest terrestrial mammals on earth, averaging between 1.8 and 3 tonnes in height and weight. Close encounters with rhinos in their natural habitat are a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
The Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary is the only location in Uganda where it is possible to observe the “big five” species, thus if you want to complete your “big five” wildlife checklist, you must stop here.
It is situated approximately 180 kilometres from the entrance to Murchison Falls National Park along the Kampala – Gulu highway. Do not miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity at only US$ 20.
How to get there
From Kampala, it is a 5-hour journey of about 305 km to the Shoebill Campsite. Drive from Kampala to Masindi. Then go through Kichumbanyobo Gate and Mubako Gate of Murchison Falls National Park.
Visitors who are feeling very adventurous can also get to the Campsite via the escarpment road from Bulisa and Wanseko.
For air transport, a jet-ranger helicopter for three guests can be arranged at the Nile Safari Lodge for $3900. The lodge is equipped with a helipad where private helicopters can land and take off. Shoebill campsite is only 2 minutes away from Nile Safari lodge.
If you are taking a small chartered flight from Entebbe International Airport, Bugungu Airfield is the closest airstrip and about a 25-minute drive from Shoebill Campsite.
Reservations
To book a spot at the campsite, contact the Shoebill Campsite team through the Geo Lodges African website or by telephone call. You can also reserve a spot for you and your loved ones via email at reservations@geolodgesafrica.com.
For the best Murchison Falls National Park safari experience, check out the following best accommodation nearby: Red Chilli Rest Camp, Pross’ Residence Motel, Kalalo Cottage Inn, Masindi Hotel, Murchison Backpackers Hostel, Heritage Safari Lodge, Twiga Safari Lodge, Nile Safari Lodge, Sambiya River Lodge, Global Village Guest House, Grassroots Cottages and Tours, Parkside Safari Lodge, Kabalega Wilderness Lodge, Pakuba Safari Lodge, Mama Washindi Lodge, and Budongo Eco Lodge.
