4 Days Queen Elizabeth Safari

4 Days Queen Elizabeth Safari

Embark on an exciting 4-days safari in Queen Elizabeth National Park, one of Uganda’s most popular and diverse wildlife reserves. Situated in the western part of the country, the park covers an area of approximately 1,978 square kilometers and boasts a variety of ecosystems including savannah, wetlands, forests, and lakes. This diversity supports an incredible array of wildlife, including the famous tree-climbing lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards, and a plethora of bird species. Starting from Entebbe or Kampala, this tour offers a perfect blend of game drives, boat cruises, and cultural experiences, providing an unforgettable adventure in the heart of Uganda.

Highlights

• Game Drives: Enjoy multiple game drives through the park’s diverse landscapes, spotting a wide range of wildlife.
• Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise: Experience a scenic boat ride along the Kazinga Channel, renowned for its high concentration of hippos and birdlife.
• Tree-Climbing Lions: Visit the Ishasha sector to see the unique tree-climbing lions.
• Chimpanzee Tracking: Track chimpanzees in Kyambura Gorge, known as the “Valley of Apes.”
• Cultural Encounters: Engage with local communities and learn about their traditions and ways of life.
• Crater Lakes: Explore the scenic crater lakes and the stunning views they offer.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Journey from Entebbe or Kampala to Queen Elizabeth National Park

Drive to Queen Elizabeth National Park

Begin your adventure with an early morning departure from Entebbe or Kampala. The drive to Queen Elizabeth National Park takes approximately 6-7 hours, depending on traffic and stops along the way. Travel through Uganda’s picturesque countryside, passing through small towns, lush plantations, and scenic landscapes.

Equator Stopover

Make a stop at the Equator Crossing in Kayabwe, where you can take photos and witness the water experiment demonstrating the Coriolis effect. This is also a great spot to purchase souvenirs and enjoy a brief rest.

Arrival and Check-in

Arrive at Queen Elizabeth National Park in the afternoon and check into your lodge or campsite. Choose from a range of accommodations, from luxury lodges to budget-friendly campsites, all offering stunning views of the park’s surroundings.

Evening Game Drive

Embark on an evening game drive to get a first glimpse of the park’s abundant wildlife. As the sun sets, the animals become more active, providing excellent opportunities for spotting elephants, buffaloes, antelopes, and various bird species. Your experienced guide will help you locate and identify the wildlife, enhancing your safari experience.

Dinner and Overnight

Return to your lodge for dinner, where you can savor local and international cuisine. Relax and unwind in the peaceful setting of the park, preparing for the adventures of the next day.

Day 2: Game Drive and Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise

Morning Game Drive

Start your day with an early morning game drive in the Kasenyi Plains, a prime area for wildlife viewing. The plains are home to large herds of Uganda kob, which attract predators like lions and leopards. Keep your camera ready for some spectacular shots of the wildlife against the backdrop of the morning light.

Visit to Katwe Explosion Crater

After the game drive, visit the Katwe Explosion Crater, a series of volcanic craters offering panoramic views of the park. The craters are surrounded by lush vegetation and provide a unique landscape for photography and exploration.

Lunch and Relaxation

Return to your lodge for lunch and a brief rest. Enjoy the serene environment and take some time to relax before the afternoon activities.

Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise

In the afternoon, head to the Mweya Peninsula for a boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel, which connects Lake Edward and Lake George. The channel is famous for its high concentration of hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of water birds. The boat cruise offers a unique perspective of the park and provides excellent opportunities for wildlife photography. Spot elephants, buffaloes, and antelopes drinking along the shores, and marvel at the diversity of birdlife.

Sunset Views and Return to Lodge

Enjoy the stunning sunset over the Kazinga Channel as you return from the boat cruise. The changing colors of the sky and water create a breathtaking scene, perfect for capturing memorable moments.

Dinner and Overnight

Return to your lodge for dinner, where you can share stories of the day’s sightings and relax under the starry night sky.

Day 3: Ishasha Sector and Chimpanzee Tracking

Drive to Ishasha Sector

After breakfast, drive to the Ishasha sector in the southern part of Queen Elizabeth National Park, renowned for its tree-climbing lions. The journey offers scenic views of the park’s diverse landscapes, from open savannahs to dense forests.

Tree-Climbing Lions

Spend the morning searching for the famous tree-climbing lions, often found lounging in the fig trees. This unique behavior is thought to help them escape the heat and avoid insects on the ground. Your guide will help you locate these elusive predators and provide insights into their behavior and ecology.

Lunch and Relaxation

Enjoy a picnic lunch in the Ishasha sector, surrounded by the tranquility of the park. After lunch, take some time to relax and absorb the beauty of your surroundings.

Chimpanzee Tracking in Kyambura Gorge

In the afternoon, drive to Kyambura Gorge, also known as the “Valley of Apes,” for a thrilling chimpanzee tracking experience. The gorge is home to a small population of chimpanzees and offers a unique opportunity to observe these primates in their natural habitat. The trek can be challenging, but the reward of encountering the chimpanzees up close is well worth the effort.

Return to Lodge

After the chimpanzee tracking, return to your lodge for dinner and an evening of relaxation. Reflect on the day’s adventures and prepare for the final day of your safari.

Day 4: Exploration and Return Journey

Early Morning Game Drive

Start your final day with an early morning game drive, focusing on any areas or species you may have missed. This is a great time to capture the morning light and see the park’s wildlife at their most active.

Visit to Lake Katwe Salt Works

After the game drive, visit the Lake Katwe salt works, where you can learn about the traditional methods of salt extraction that have been practiced for centuries. The salt pans create a unique landscape, and the visit provides insights into the local economy and culture.

Lunch and Departure

Return to your lodge for lunch and a brief rest before starting your journey back to Entebbe or Kampala. Take in the last views of Queen Elizabeth National Park as you reflect on your safari experience.

Scenic Drive to Entebbe or Kampala

Enjoy the scenic drive back, making a few stopovers for refreshments and to stretch your legs. The journey offers one last chance to appreciate Uganda’s beautiful landscapes and rural life.

Arrival in Entebbe or Kampala

Arrive in Entebbe or Kampala in the evening, concluding your 4-day Queen Elizabeth Safari. Transfer to your hotel or the airport for your onward journey, taking with you unforgettable memories of Uganda’s wildlife and natural beauty.

Conclusion

A 4-day safari in Queen Elizabeth National Park offers an incredible blend of wildlife encounters, scenic landscapes, and cultural experiences. From the thrilling game drives and boat cruises to the unique opportunity of seeing tree-climbing lions and tracking chimpanzees, this safari provides a comprehensive and immersive experience in one of Uganda’s most diverse national parks. Whether you are a seasoned traveler or a first-time safari-goer, Queen Elizabeth National Park promises an adventure filled with unforgettable moments and a deeper appreciation for the natural world.