3-Day Wildlife Safari to Queen Elizabeth National Park
A three-day visit to Queen Elizabeth National Park provides an opportunity to witness some of Africa’s well-known wildlife, vast savannahs, and a variety of forested areas. Located in western Uganda, the park was named after Queen Elizabeth II in 1954. Spanning more than 1,900 square kilometers, it features two prominent crater lakes, Edward and George, which are connected by the Kazinga Channel.
Queen Elizabeth National Park ranks as Uganda’s second-largest and most frequented conservation area. Wildlife populations in the park experienced significant decline during the 1979 war that ousted the country’s former leader, Idi Amin. However, the ecosystem has rebounded, now supporting 95 mammal species, including elephants, hippos, buffaloes, warthogs, lions, leopards, hyenas, cave bats, crocodiles, and a variety of antelopes such as the Uganda Kob. The park is widely recognized for its Ishasha tree-climbing lions, boat excursions on the Kazinga Channel, and chimpanzee tracking in the Kyambura Gorge and Maramagambo Forest. Additionally, it boasts over 550 species of birds and a rich variety of butterflies.
While exploring the park, visitors can enjoy scenic views of the Rwenzori Mountains, with their snow-covered peaks visible in the distance. The most favorable period to visit the park is immediately after the rainy season when the lush greenery enhances the scenery. Those looking for extended time observing the tree-climbing lions can consider a 4-day safari package, while a longer 5-day itinerary offers an even more comprehensive experience.
Day 1: Departure to Queen Elizabeth National Park
A guide fluent in English from Braich Safaris will meet you at the agreed location, typically your hotel, at approximately 6 a.m. The journey to the park spans roughly six hours, with captivating views of the countryside along the way. A stopover at the equator provides an opportunity for photography. As you proceed beyond Mbarara, expect to witness rolling landscapes adorned with tea plantations and the iconic long-horned Ankole cattle grazing in the fields. Lunch will be served in Mbarara town before continuing to the park. Upon arrival and check-in at the lodge, an evening visit to Lake Katwe Crater will be arranged, where you will observe traditional salt extraction practices. Accommodation options include Mweya Safari Lodge for a luxurious stay or Bush Lodge for budget-conscious travelers, both offering excellent views of the Kazinga Channel.
Day 2: Wildlife Viewing and Boat Excursion
The day begins with an early morning cup of tea or coffee before heading out for a game drive at the Mweya Peninsula near the Kazinga Channel. This drive, lasting approximately three hours, takes visitors through various trails where they may encounter jackals, forest hogs, warthogs, buffaloes, elephants, lions, leopards, and the Uganda Kob. Afterward, return to the lodge for a late breakfast and some relaxation, possibly by the poolside. The afternoon features a two-hour boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel, offering sightings of various bird species such as pelicans and kingfishers, along with hippos, crocodiles, and elephants by the water’s edge. Dinner and overnight stay will be at either Mweya Safari Lodge (Luxury) or Bush Lodge (Budget).
Day 3: Chimpanzee Trekking and Return Journey
After a hearty breakfast, the adventure continues with a visit to Kyambura Gorge, an underground forest habitat for chimpanzees, baboons, and other primates. The forest is also rich with diverse flora and birdlife. Once the trek concludes, the guide will lead the return to the lodge for lunch and checkout. The journey back to Kampala includes a drive through Maramagambo Forest, offering further chances to observe more wildlife. Arrival in Kampala is expected by evening, either for a flight departure or transfer to your hotel.