Bugungu Gate forms the southern boundary access point for Murchison Falls National Park.
The route through Buliisa and the escarpment descending into the park has been fully tarmacked under the national oil‑road upgrade programme.
Travellers can now use sealed bitumen from the main junctions to the gate entrance, enhancing reliability year-round.
Gate Infrastructure and Entry Process
The checkpoint has undergone complete renovation, featuring paved access lanes, covered ranger booths, upgraded signage, and modern payment kiosks.
Uganda Wildlife Authority staff verify permits and vehicle categories before clearance. Mobile money and card payments are accepted; bringing cash remains prudent in very remote areas.
Vehicle Suitability and Travel Considerations
With the sealed road leading to the gate, a standard 4×4 or high‑clearance SUV will suffice up to the gate.
Inside the park, internal tracks may still require higher clearance. The sealed corridor removes the previous constraint of steep gradients on unsealed surfaces.
Drivers should remain alert for dust or wet‑season spray on the escarpment descent.
Strategic Relevance for Safari Logistics
Bugungu Gate serves safari and research operations targeting the Nile Delta wetlands, bird survey zones, and the Lake Albert ecosystems.
It is the preferred entry for visitors coming via Hoima or the western corridor rather than from Kampala or Masindi. The sealed road supports faster logistics and reduced delays.