Pakuba Airfield
Pakuba Airfield serves as the primary airstrip for travelers visiting Murchison Falls National Park in northwestern Uganda. Located in the park’s northern sector, near the Paraa Region, this small but crucial airfield provides a convenient alternative to the long road journey from Kampala. With regular domestic flights, Pakuba Airfield allows visitors to access Uganda’s most popular safari destination quickly and comfortably.
Why Fly to Pakuba Airfield?
Time-Saving Access – A flight to Pakuba Airfield takes about one hour from Entebbe International Airport, compared to a 5-6 hour drive from Kampala.
Scenic Aerial Views – Flying over Murchison Falls National Park provides breathtaking views of the Victoria Nile, savannah plains, and wildlife below.
Proximity to Safari Lodges – Many top lodges, including Pakuba Safari Lodge, Paraa Safari Lodge, and Nile Safari Lodge, are within easy reach of the airfield.
Seamless Safari Transfers – Upon landing, visitors can immediately begin their game drives, boat safaris, or nature walks, maximizing their time in the park.
Airlines and Flights to Pakuba Airfield
Several domestic carriers operate scheduled and chartered flights to Pakuba Airfield, with departures from Entebbe International Airport and Kajjansi Airfield. Major airlines include:
- Aerolink Uganda
- Bar Aviation Uganda
- Eagle Air
Flights typically land at Pakuba, Bugungu, or Chobe Airfields, but Pakuba remains the most commonly used for tourism.
Wildlife and Scenery Around Pakuba Airfield
The airfield itself lies within a wildlife-rich area of Murchison Falls National Park. Visitors often spot giraffes, elephants, buffaloes, and antelopes as soon as they step off the plane.
- Game Drives Start Here – Many safari itineraries begin at Pakuba, where travelers immediately embark on a guided game drive through the northern sector of the park.
- Close to the Nile – The airfield’s location near the Victoria Nile makes it an excellent starting point for boat safaris to Murchison Falls.
- Photographic Opportunities – With sweeping landscapes and abundant wildlife, Pakuba is perfect for photography enthusiasts looking to capture stunning aerial and on-ground shots.
Best Time to Fly to Pakuba Airfield
Flights operate year-round, but the best time for safaris is during the dry seasons (December to February and June to September). These months offer optimal wildlife viewing, as animals congregate near water sources. The rainy seasons (March to May and October to November) bring lush vegetation but can make game drives more challenging.
How to Book a Flight to Pakuba Airfield
Travelers can book flights to Pakuba Airfield through:
Tour Operators – Many safari packages include flights, transfers, and guided tours.
Airline Websites – Airlines like Aerolink and Bar Aviation offer online booking for scheduled flights.
Private Charters – For flexibility, visitors can arrange private flights to fit their itinerary.
Plan Your Trip via Pakuba Airfield
Pakuba Airfield offers the fastest and most scenic way to reach Murchison Falls National Park. Whether embarking on a Big Five safari, a boat cruise to Murchison Falls, or a chimpanzee trek in Budongo Forest, arriving by air ensures a seamless and luxurious start to your adventure.
