Murchison Falls is located in a remote area, which means access to medical facilities is limited. However, tourists can find hospitals in nearby towns and districts around the park.
Where to Find Medical Care
Medical care is available in case someone needs attention during a visit to the park. The nearest major hospitals are found in Masindi, Hoima, Gulu, Buliisa, and Pakwach, each serving a different side of the park depending on which gate you use to enter or exit.
Masindi General Hospital
Masindi General Hospital is a public health facility in Masindi, one of the closest towns to the southern gates of the park. It provides first aid, basic medical services, and some surgical care, making it a practical stop for travelers entering or leaving through Kichumbanyobo Gate.
Hoima Regional Referral Hospital
Hoima Regional Referral Hospital is located about 150 km south of Murchison Falls in Hoima District. It is the main hospital in the area and offers emergency treatment, along with a wider range of specialist services than the smaller health centers near the park.
Gulu Regional Referral Hospital
Gulu Regional Referral Hospital, found north of the park, is the largest hospital in Northern Uganda. It handles emergencies and also offers specialized care, serving travelers using the northern gates such as Tangi and Wankar.
Smaller Health Centers
Smaller health centers are also found in districts like Buliisa and Pakwach. These centers provide basic medical care to both locals and tourists, and can handle common issues without requiring a longer drive to one of the larger referral hospitals.
Buliisa Health Centre IV is located south of the park and offers first aid and simple treatment. Pakwach Health Centre IV is a small medical facility in Pakwach town. It handles emergencies, and serious cases are later referred to larger hospitals such as Gulu Regional Referral Hospital.
Getting to a Hospital
Poor road conditions can make it hard for travelers to reach hospitals quickly, especially during the rainy season when some routes become harder to pass. The government of Uganda is working to improve the roads in the region, which should shorten travel time to medical facilities over time.
First Aid at Lodges
Some lodges near the park can offer emergency first aid, but serious health issues should be handled in bigger hospitals. While there are no hospitals inside Murchison Falls National Park, tourists can still access medical care in nearby towns and districts within a reasonable drive, so it helps to know which facility is closest to your lodge before heading out on activities.
