Paraa Safari Lodge

Paraa Safari Lodge, Murchison Falls National Park

Introduction

Nestled on the north bank of the Nile River, Paraa Safari Lodge offers an extraordinary blend of history, luxury, and wildlife adventure. Originally built in 1959 and beautifully reconstructed in 1997, this iconic lodge captures the romance and nostalgia of a bygone era of African exploration.

With panoramic views of the Nile and easy access to Murchison Falls National Park, Paraa Safari Lodge is the perfect choice for families, couples, and first-time visitors looking to enjoy a safari adventure from the comfort of a stylish and historic base.

Location

Situated within Murchison Falls National Park, Paraa Safari Lodge provides:

  • Proximity to Murchison Falls: A short drive or boat ride to the park’s most famous attraction, where the Nile plunges dramatically through a narrow gorge.
  • Access to Game Drives: Located near key safari routes, offering opportunities to spot the Big Five and other wildlife.
  • Spectacular Nile Views: Positioned on a rise overlooking the river, guests enjoy uninterrupted vistas of the winding Nile and surrounding savannah.

Accommodation

Paraa Safari Lodge boasts 54 elegantly designed rooms, each offering comfort, charm, and breathtaking views.

  • En-Suite Bathrooms: All rooms feature modern en-suite bathrooms with hot showers and quality amenities.
  • Private Balconies: Each room includes a balcony, perfect for soaking in views of the river and surrounding landscape.
  • Classic Design: The decor reflects the lodge’s heritage, with an emphasis on colonial-style elegance and natural materials.
  • Room Options:
    • Standard Rooms: Comfortable and well-equipped for couples or solo travelers.
    • Suites: More spacious, ideal for families or those seeking additional luxury.
    • Safari Tents: A unique glamping experience that brings guests closer to nature without sacrificing comfort.

Dining & Culinary Experience

Paraa Safari Lodge offers an exceptional culinary experience in its main restaurant and outdoor dining areas:

  • Riverside Dining: Enjoy meals with a view of the Nile, complemented by the sounds of the river and wildlife.
  • International and Local Cuisine: The lodge’s chefs prepare a variety of dishes, from international favorites to Ugandan specialties.
  • Poolside Snacks & Drinks: The poolside bar serves refreshing cocktails, snacks, and beverages throughout the day.
  • Bush Dining: For a truly unforgettable experience, the lodge offers bush breakfasts and private dining under the stars.

Key Features & Amenities

  1. Infinity Pool:
    • Overlooking the Nile, the pool offers a serene place to relax and cool off between safari adventures.
    • Fun Fact: The pool appeared in the 1951 Hollywood classic, ‘The African Queen’, starring Katharine Hepburn and Humphrey Bogart.
  2. Historic Ambiance:
    • The lodge’s design and decor evoke the charm of the mid-20th century, paying homage to the golden age of African exploration.
  3. Safari Lounge & Bar:
    • Relax in the lounge, sip a cocktail, and enjoy the stunning sunset views over the Nile.
  4. Gift Shop:
    • A boutique offering souvenirs, safari essentials, and locally made crafts.
  5. Conference Facilities:
    • For groups or corporate retreats, the lodge offers modern meeting facilities in an inspiring setting.

Experiences at Paraa Safari Lodge

  1. Boat Safaris:
    • Cruise along the Nile to the base of Murchison Falls, passing pods of hippos, crocodiles, and diverse bird species.
    • Sundowner cruises are available for a more relaxed experience.
  2. Game Drives:
    • Explore the park’s rich savannahs, home to lions, elephants, buffalo, giraffes, and the elusive leopard.
  3. Nature Walks:
    • Guided walks near the lodge offer a closer look at the local flora and fauna, perfect for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts.
  4. Cultural Visits:
    • Engage with nearby communities to learn about the local traditions and way of life.
  5. Fishing Excursions:
    • Try fishing for Nile perch, one of the world’s largest freshwater fish, in the calm waters of the Nile.
  6. Visit Murchison Falls:
    • Witness the sheer power of the Nile as it forces its way through a narrow gorge, creating one of the world’s most powerful waterfalls.

Why Choose Paraa Safari Lodge?

  1. Historic Charm: A lodge with a rich history and ties to the golden era of African safaris.
  2. Prime Location: Close to Murchison Falls, the ferry crossing, and prime wildlife viewing areas.
  3. Family-Friendly: Spacious rooms, a pool, and varied activities make it ideal for families.
  4. Luxury Meets Adventure: A perfect balance of comfort and wilderness exploration.
  5. Iconic Pool: Swim in a pool that’s part of cinematic history, with unparalleled views of the Nile.

Sustainability & Community Engagement

Paraa Safari Lodge is committed to eco-friendly practices and supporting local communities:

  • Solar Power: Utilized for much of the lodge’s operations to reduce its environmental footprint.
  • Local Employment: The lodge employs staff from nearby communities, providing jobs and training opportunities.
  • Conservation Efforts: The lodge supports conservation programs within Murchison Falls National Park.

Practical Information

  • Getting There:
    • By Road: A 5-6 hour drive from Kampala through scenic Ugandan countryside.
    • By Air: Charter flights are available to Pakuba Airstrip, followed by a short drive to the lodge.
  • Best Time to Visit:
    • The dry seasons (June–September and December–February) are ideal for game viewing and exploring the park.
  • What to Pack: Comfortable clothing, binoculars, sun protection, sturdy walking shoes, and a camera.

Contact & Booking

For a luxurious safari experience in the heart of Murchison Falls National Park, book your stay at Paraa Safari Lodge: