Tangi River

The Tangi River, a tributary of the Nile, is situated in northwestern Uganda, specifically in the districts of Olwiyo and Pakwach. It crosses the Pakwach highway, linking West Nile to Gulu and Kampala. This river is infamous for flooding, especially in the West Nile region, with a recent incident on November 27th, 2024, causing extensive damage to hundreds of houses. This inundation also impeded access to the regions next to the river. When visiting this river, it is essential to comprehend its conditions. The Tangi River traverses Murchison Falls National Park.

Murchison Falls National Park is the largest and most renowned national park in Uganda. Initially designated as Kabalega National Park, it was subsequently renamed Murchison Falls due to the falls’ presence within the park. To cross the river, it is imperative to pass via the Tangi gate, located in the northeastern area of the park near Purongo. The Borassus palm trees predominate the area surrounding the Tangi River in the south. Adjacent to the river, one can see acacia, savannah-type flora, and diminutive palm tree species. This river hosts animals frequently observed on safaris, such as elephants, buffalo, warthogs, hippos, Nile crocodiles, and others.

What activities are available on safaris along the Tangi River?

While organizing a safari to the Tangi River, you may partake in several activities, including;

Game viewing

A primary activity of Murchison Falls National Park, especially adjacent to the Tangi River, is wildlife observation. This adventure takes place on the park’s several designated routes in a 4×4 safari vehicle including a pop-up for improved wildlife observation. This game drive offers the opportunity to observe a variety of creatures, including lions, leopards, buffalo, warthogs, giraffes, and hippos. Game viewing occurs in multiple hours throughout the park, including morning, afternoon, evening, full-day, and night sessions.

Boat cruise

The Nile River cruise provides an opportunity to observe the local fauna and picturesque landscapes. The trip, usually conducted in the afternoon, enables observation of several species, including buffalo, elephants, hippos, crocodiles, and a multitude of water birds, in the park’s vicinity. You will receive a front-row perspective of the falls.

Chimpanzee trekking

Chimpanzee trekking is a primate activity conducted in the Budongo Forest, which is located within the park boundary. This experience facilitates interactions with diverse chimpanzee species residing in the wild. Chimpanzees possess around 98% of their DNA in common with humans. Chimpanzees in this woodland undergo a two-year habituation process to prepare for human interaction. Tracking chimpanzees generally requires between 4 to 6 hours, resulting in an encounter with them. Participation in this activity necessitates the acquisition of a chimpanzee trekking permit. The costs for chimpanzee trekking are 120 USD for foreign non-residents, 110 USD for international residents, and 80 USD for East African citizens.

Hiking to the top of the falls

Ascending to the summit of the falls leads to the observation of Murchison Falls, the world’s most significant waterfalls, cascading into a 13-meter valley. This climb provides stunning vistas of the park and the Nile River.

Nature walks

Nature walks are pedestrian activities in the park adjacent to the Tangi River, enabling people to observe diverse species. These excursions are conducted by a ranger guide who fosters wildlife interactions. These observations occur in the early morning and late evening to monitor wildlife, including buffalo, aquatic birds, hippopotamuses, elephants, giraffes, and others.

Lodging adjacent to Tangi River

While on safaris in Uganda to investigate the Tangi River, you may encounter many lodging alternatives around Murchison Falls National Park. Prominent establishments comprise Pakuba Safari Lodge, Savannah Lodge, Hornbill Lodge, Tangi Safari Lodge, Fort Murchison, Heritage Safari Lodge, Paraa Safari Lodge, Nile Safari Lodge, among others.

What is the route to the Tangi River?

The Tangi River is reachable via both road and air transportation. To access the northern section of the park where the river is situated, travel by road from Kampala via the Kampala-Luwero-Karuma route, which will require approximately 7 to 8 hours. For air transport, domestic chartered flights are available from Entebbe International Airport or Kajjansi Airstrip to Pakuba Airstrip within the park. You will be transported by vehicle to the river from that location.