Situated in Kiryandongo district in the western side of Uganda is Karuma Wildlife Reserve and stands at an elevation of 902 meters/2959.32 feet above sea level. What makes this spectacular wildlife Reserve stand out is the roaring Karuma waterfalls located on the breathtaking Victoria Nile and makes it a must see attraction on a Ugandan Safari. The fascinating waterfalls are situated not far from Murchison Falls National Park-Uganda’s largest and oldest Protected Area/National Park along the Eastern edge of the National Park and only one hour’s drive from Gulu district. This Wildlife Reserve is located within the Murchison Conservation Area that consists of the Murchison Falls National park, the Budongo Forest Reserve, the Kaniyo-Pabidi Forest and the Bugungu Wildlife Reserve.
A local legend says that a powerful traditional spirit called “Karuma” created the rocks that form these waterfalls, and the waterfalls later took their name from it. When travelling to the districts of Northern Uganda, you will immediately admire the breathtaking appearance and the roaring sounds of these powerful waterfalls. Their appearance becomes even more spectacular during the rainy seasons when the water turns as white as snow.
What is the size of the Reserve
Karuma Wildlife Reserve covers an area of 820 square kilometers (317 square miles) and became a Wildlife Reserve in 1964. Authorities originally created it to serve as a buffer zone between Murchison Falls National Park, the surrounding villages, and other unprotected areas. However, throughout the years the Karuma Wildlife Reserve has slowly lost its significance of protection against wildlife intrusion from the National Park to the surrounding areas and now looks to be a buffer for the Park against human population pressure instead. The outcome has been tremendous encroachments of the local communities into the Wildlife Reserve.
The establishment and existence of a refugee settlement in Kiryandongo, where more than 7,000 people relocated, has greatly impeded the tourism resources of the Wildlife Reserve. Karuma Wildlife Reserve under the Protected Areas predominately lies in Kiryandongo district and was traditionally an extensive area for large animals such as the elephants, buffaloes and hippos in addition to the smaller wildlife species.
Wildlife Species within the Karuma Reserve
Some of the notable Wildlife species to look out for in the Karuma Wildlife Reserve include the Cape Buffaloes, the Elephants, the Uganda Kobs, the Rothschild’s giraffes, the vervet monkeys, the Olive baboons, the Black and white Colobus monkeys, L’Hoest’s monkeys, the Topis, the Hippos, the Oribis, occasionally the Lions and the Leopards among others.
Besides the Wildlife and bird species within the Wildlife Reserve, it is widely known for the roaring Karuma falls on the Victoria Nile and is perfect for sigh seeing. This waterfalls is not very far from the powerful Murchison Falls, hence can enjoy two of the greatest waterfalls in Uganda while on a safari.
Where to stay within Karuma Falls Wildlife Reserve
Unlike other Wildlife Reserves that lack accommodation facilities, tourists visiting the Reserve can stay at Red Chilli Rest Camp, Karuma Falls Campsites, and other campsites that provide ideal settings for camping safaris.
How to get there
The Wildlife Reserve lies along the Masindi–Gulu highway, which crosses the Nile River, about 110 kilometers (68 miles) northwest of Masindi Town and only 70 kilometers (43 miles) south of Gulu Town. Travelers can board public buses to Gulu from Nakivubo Bus Terminal at a cost ranging between Shs 20,000 and Shs 25,000.
In conclusion, the Karuma Reserve is one of the most interesting places you can visit for a safari with Vibrant Holiday Safaris.
