Wankar Gate is located in the northwestern part of Uganda. It provides easy access to the northern section of Murchison Falls National Park, a place known for its rich wildlife. The gate is in a good position for travelers coming from West Nile, Gulu, Pakwach, and nearby areas. For those using charter flights, Pakuba Airstrip is located within the park, and from there, Wankar Gate is easy to reach.
Wankar Gate is one of the oldest entry points into Murchison Falls National Park. It was established in 1952 and was named after the nearby Wankar village, home to local communities who have lived peacefully near the forest for years.
The gate is also near a ranger post, which was set up to help protect the area. This part of the park is known for its large African elephants and has been a common target for poachers. The ranger post supports the Uganda Wildlife Authority in protecting wildlife, especially against illegal hunting for ivory.
Wankar Gate is about 300 kilometers from Kampala and takes around 5 to 6 hours to reach by road. The road inside the park leading to Wankar Gate is mostly murram but is kept in good condition. However, it is best to use a 4×4 vehicle for easier travel.
Wankar Gate stands as a sign of Uganda’s efforts to protect its natural areas and promote tourism that helps the environment.
Visitors entering through this gate can see many animals, including the Big Five (lions, elephants, leopards, buffaloes, and rhinos), as well as giraffes, warthogs, chimpanzees, baboons, and many types of birds.
Tourists can also learn about Uganda’s culture by visiting local communities in Wankar village nearby.
Wankar Gate also leads to some of the top lodges in Murchison Falls National Park. These lodges offer comfort and good service while blending well with the natural surroundings. Examples include Pakuba Safari Lodge, Paraa Lodge, Chobe Safari Lodge, Murchison River Lodge, and Wangle Falls Life, among others.
All tourists entering through Wankar Gate must pay park entrance fees. These fees vary depending on nationality and go toward supporting conservation work in the park.
When you pass through Wankar Gate, you are not just entering a protected natural area, you are also supporting Uganda’s efforts to care for its wildlife and environment.
