Marafiki Safari Lodge vs Sambiya River Lodge

Both offer game drives · Updated 2026

Quick Answer

Marafiki Safari Lodge is a mid-range ($$) in Katunguru. Sambiya River Lodge is a comfort ($$$) in South Bank, well suited for families and first-time safari visitors. Marafiki Safari Lodge is the more affordable option ($$), while Sambiya River Lodge positions itself at the comfort level. They are in different areas: Marafiki Safari Lodge in Katunguru and Sambiya River Lodge in South Bank.

Option A

Marafiki Safari Lodge

Katunguru · Queen Elizabeth National Park

A mid-range lodge in the Katunguru area of Queen Elizabeth National Park. Further details will be added as information becomes available.

$$·Mid-range

Option B

Sambiya River Lodge

South Bank · Murchison Falls National Park

A comfort lodge on the south bank of Murchison Falls National Park, set in natural surroundings near the park entrance.

$$$·Comfort

Side-by-Side Comparison

Marafiki Safari LodgeSambiya River Lodge
CategoryMid-rangeComfort
Price Level$$ Mid-range$$$ Comfort
Sector / AreaKatunguruSouth Bank
National ParkQueen Elizabeth National ParkMurchison Falls National Park
Distance to Park
RoomsFamily Cottage, Standard Room
DiningThe Sambiya Restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Meals draw on Uganda...
Highlights
Self-described #1 hotel in Murchison Falls NPSwimming pools on-site15-20 min drive to Top of the Falls viewpoint25 min to Paraa boat landing
Best For
FamiliesFirst-time safari visitorsAdventure seekers
Activities
Game drivesBoat cruise to Murchison FallsHiking to Top of the FallsNature walks
WebsiteVisit website

Choose Marafiki Safari Lodge if you...

    Choose Sambiya River Lodge if you...

    • are looking for families
    • are looking for first-time safari visitors
    • are looking for adventure seekers
    • value self-described #1 hotel in murchison falls np
    • value swimming pools on-site

    Still not sure?

    Tell us your dates, budget and preferences — we help you choose.

    View full profile: Marafiki Safari LodgeView full profile: Sambiya River Lodge