Kampala, September 19, 2024 – Following the temporary closure of Karuma Bridge for all vehicles over the next three months, the management of Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) would like to provide the following guidelines for motorists transiting through the alternative route via Murchison Falls National Park. These guidelines are meant to ensure the safety of persons, protect wildlife, and preserve the park’s natural environment.

As stewards of Uganda’s wildlife heritage, we emphasize the need for compliance with these guidelines.

1. Entrance Fees: There will be no entry fees charged for vehicles transiting through Tangi – Bugungu gates via Bulisa Town Council for the period of three months up to December 31, 2024 when repairs on Karuma bridge are expected to be completed. Note that Kichumbanyobo gate is dedicated to tourists visiting Murchison Falls National Park and therefore all vehicles transiting this gate will be required to pay park entrance fees as per the UWA tariff. Motorists are also encouraged to use Masindi port ferry and the other ferries through Luwero – Nakasongora – Kafu – Rwenkunye.
2. Operating Hours: The park is open from 7:00 am to 7:00 pm. Therefore, motorists must plan their journeys to strictly adhere to these hours. Transit visitors will only be allowed into the park not later than 6.00 pm to enable exit by 7.00 pm. Entry outside of these times is prohibited, and no exceptions will be made.
3. Parking at night: No transit vehicle will be permitted to park at any of the gates at night. You are advised to plan your night parking accordingly.
4. Speed Limits: The speed limit within the park is 40 km/h and is strictly enforced. Non-compliance will result in immediate fines or penalties. This measure is crucial for both visitor and wildlife safety. Over speeding attracts a fine of UGX 100,000, while accidental animal kill (Road kill) attracts a fine of $500 per animal.
5. No Littering: Littering is strictly prohibited. All transit vehicles and especially bus operators must ensure their passengers are informed of the importance of keeping the park clean. Failure to prevent littering will lead to penalties to the operator/driver. Littering in the park attracts a fine of UGX 100,000 per incident.
6. No Unnecessary Stops: Stopping within the park is prohibited except in emergencies. This rule is in place to protect both visitors and wildlife from potential risks.
7. Restricted Areas: Vehicles, except for authorized tourist vehicles, must remain on the designated Tangi – Bugungu route. Any unauthorized deviations from this route will be treated as illegal entry and a penalty of USD 150 per person in the vehicle will be charged.
8. No Hooting or Feeding Wildlife: Visitors are reminded that hooting and feeding animals are strictly forbidden. These actions disturb the wildlife and can create dangerous situations. Any motorist found hooting in the park will pay a fine of UGX 100,000 per incident.
9.  No Motorcycles: For safety reasons, motorcycles are strictly prohibited in the park.

UWA remains committed to the protection of Murchison Falls National Park’s unique biodiversity while ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors. We ask for the cooperation of all motorists in adhering to these guidelines for the good of Uganda’s natural heritage, the safety of people transiting through the park, and the convenience to tourists who visit the park.

ENDS