Papa’s Camp
Opulence in the Heart of Murchison
Uganda’s mighty nile
Located deep within the heart of Murchison Falls National Park, Papa’s Camp is nestled among beautiful fig trees on the south bank of the River Nile. Named after Ernest ‘Papa’ Hemingway—who famously survived two plane crashes in this very region—Papa’s Camp is a nod to the golden age of safari travel.
This is wilderness at its purest. Lions are prolific here, including the rare tree-climbing lions of Murchison, and a den of habituated hyenas near camp offers extraordinary viewing. The drive to the top of Murchison Falls is an easy 1.5-hour game drive away—rich with wildlife: lions, buffalo, giraffes, and antelope species like Jackson’s hartebeest, waterbuck, Ugandan kob, oribi, and more. Set in a newly designated low-impact zone of the park, the privacy here is exceptional and the human footprint deliberately minimal. The only other property in this entire area is our very own sister camp, Kulu Ora, opening in early 2026. With just five tents set along the riverbank, Papa’s Camp is everything WildPlaces stands for: wild, intimate, and quietly unforgettable.
Experience Murchison Falls
- Wildlife: Lions, buffalo, giraffes, and diverse antelope species
- Birding: Abundant waterbirds and savanna species along the Nile
- Game Drives: Explore the park's diverse habitats in open vehicles
- Fishing: Several kilometers of prime river for fishing enthusiasts
- Hiking: Walking safaris in select areas with armed guides
- River Activities: Boat trips to the base of Murchison Falls
- Stargazing: Clear night skies perfect for astronomy enthusiasts
Lodge Details
Riverside luxury
5 spacious en-suite tents (36sqm) set along the banks of the mighty Nile
Traditional safari style
Comfortable dining area and lounge celebrating the golden age of safari
Outdoor connection
Safari-style outdoor showers that bring you closer to nature
River Views
Spectacular vistas of the Nile from every tent and common area
Culinary experience
Dining under the stars with fresh ingredients and expert preparation
Exceptional Predator Viewing
Frequent sightings of prolific lions and a rare habituated hyena den near camp
Location
Getting There:
Scenic drive from Kampala (5-6 hours) or flights to Pakuba Airstrip (2hour transfer)
Best Time:
Year-round destination with excellent wildlife, drier from December-March
Combine With
Chimpanzee tracking in Semliki or Gorilla encounters in Bwindi
Hemingway Heritage
Named after Ernest 'Papa' Hemingway, the spirit of classic safari adventure
Riverside Setting
Positioned perfectly along the Nile for wildlife viewing and fishing
Intimate Scale
Just 5 tents ensuring personalized service and an exclusive experience
Wilderness Immersion
True bush camp experience with all the comforts but none of the crowds
“One of my enduring memories will always be Papa’s Camp. It is remote, private and wonderfully situated on a slight curve of the mighty Nile with long views across and into the distance. The river here pulsates with awesome speed, standing waves, power and energy, encased in a valley backdrop of a game filled wilderness. Seeing undisturbed lions, Ugandan kob, chimpanzees, birdlife and mountain gorillas behaving naturally, in numbers, was truly epic. Uganda has so much to offer and we will be back!”
Jennifer & David | Australia
Conservation & Community Impact
Protecting Murchison's Wilderness
Our presence in Murchison Falls National Park supports vital conservation efforts in Uganda’s largest protected area. Through anti-poaching initiatives, community employment, and sustainable tourism practices, Papa’s Camp helps preserve the rich biodiversity of this spectacular ecosystem. By choosing to stay with us, you’re contributing to the protection of this pristine wilderness and the communities that surround it.
Our Lodges & Camps
From forests where gorillas roam to savannas where lions hunt, our lodges invite you into Uganda’s most remarkable wild places.
Our Lodges & Camps
From forests where gorillas roam to savannas where lions hunt, our lodges invite you into Uganda’s most remarkable wild places.