The Devil’s Cauldron
The Devil’s Cauldron is one of the most fascinating attractions in Murchison Falls National Park, the biggest of the 10 national game parks in Uganda. The spot is where the water of the Nile squeezes it’s way through an approximately 7 meters narrow gorge and bursts with a thunderous roar into the Devils Cauldron, to create an outstanding trademark rainbow.
Experience the sheer strength and power of the Nile River as it gushes through the eight-metre (26-foot) throat of Murchison Falls, tumbling into the chasm below. Marvel at some of the most powerful moving water in the world before setting out on a trail into the depths of the gorge, your ears filled with the roar of the waters and your skin tingling with the spray of the rushing waters. Stop frequently to admire the spectacular views of the main chute as you descend down to the second waterfall, known as the Independence Falls.
The greatest and oldest conservation area in Uganda, the Murchison Falls National Park is named after the mighty Murchison falls where the Nile River is compelled through a contracted crevasse, known as the Devils Cauldron, giving rise to an exquisite rainbow.
Plunging over the remnant rift valley wall, the focal point of the park is the dynamic Murchison Falls. The phenomenal cascade depletes the last of the river’s energy, recreating it into a vast, docile stream that flows quietly across the rift valley floor into Lake Albert. This stunning length of river boasts one of Uganda’s most magnificent wildlife spectacles. Temporary visitors include elephants, giraffes and buffaloes; while hippos, Nile crocodiles and aquatic birds are permanent residents.
Most of our Murchison Falls National Park safaris include a boat cruise activity that will get you about 10 meters close to the Devils Cauldron to have a clear view of the scene. It’s a good place to take lifetime photographs and appreciate the beauty of the longest river in the world, River Nile.
Most tourists see the attraction from down and have no idea of what it looks like from behind. The photograph below should show you a clear view of the 7 meters narrow gorge where the water of the Nile squeezes itself to burst into the Devils Cauldron.
A boat ride to the Devils Cauldron should take approximately 30 – 45 minutes from the starting point. This activity is best done in the afternoon and usually lasts for two to three hours depending on how much time tourists spend at the attraction. Usually tourists travel in groups which make the adventure even more fun.
Getting there involves viewing the aquatic mammals like hippopotamuses, crocodiles, species of birds not forgetting the land mammals like Giraffes, Elephants and more as well. It’s definitely one of the best experiences around Murchison Falls National Park.
