Experience the Wild Heart of Africa: A 3-Day Queen Elizabeth National Park Safari
Prepare for an unforgettable journey into the untamed beauty of Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda’s second-largest and arguably most diverse protected area. This 3-day safari package promises an intimate encounter with Africa’s iconic wildlife and breathtaking landscapes, starting and ending conveniently in Kampala or Entebbe.
Queen Elizabeth National Park: A Jewel of the Pearl of Africa
Spanning an impressive 1978 sq.km, Queen Elizabeth National Park, established in 1952 and named in honor of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, is a mosaic of habitats, each teeming with unique attractions. From sprawling savanna plains to dense woodlands, and from the tranquil shores of crater lakes to the winding Kazinga Channel, this park offers an unparalleled safari experience.
Safari Highlights: Where Adventure Awaits
Day 1: Journey to the Wild Your adventure begins as you depart from Kampala or Entebbe, heading westwards through Uganda’s picturesque countryside. Witness the vibrant green landscapes, dotted with traditional homesteads and the distinctive long-horned Ankole cattle. Enjoy scenic stops along the way before arriving at your chosen lodge on the fringes of Queen Elizabeth National Park in the late afternoon. Settle in, absorb the sounds of the African bush, and prepare for the excitement that lies ahead.
Day 2: Savannah Spectacle and Aquatic Wonders
- Morning Game Drive in the Kasenyi Plains: Wake up to the golden hues of an African sunrise and embark on an early morning game drive. The Kasenyi Plains are renowned for their abundant wildlife, offering prime opportunities to spot a diverse array of savanna dwellers. Keep your eyes peeled for majestic lions on the hunt, the elusive leopards, formidable elephants, herds of lumbering buffaloes, and the cunning hyenas. You’ll also encounter numerous antelope species like the Uganda Kobs, waterbucks, and topi, alongside warthogs and a spectacular variety of birds. This is your chance for incredible photographic moments as the wilderness awakens.
- Afternoon Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise: After a hearty lunch, prepare for a leisurely 2-3 hour boat cruise along the legendary Kazinga Channel. This natural waterway connects Lake Edward and Lake George and is a haven for aquatic life and an astounding array of bird species. Get up close and personal with hundreds of hippos submerged in the cool waters – one of the world’s highest concentrations. Witness prehistoric-looking crocodiles basking on the banks, and marvel at the graceful dance of diverse aquatic birds, including kingfishers, pelicans, and African fish eagles. The channel also attracts other animals, like elephants and buffaloes, coming to drink and bathe at the water’s edge, offering unique perspectives for wildlife viewing.
Day 3: Tree-Climbing Lions and Departure
- Ishasha Sector Game Drive : For a truly unique experience, delve into the southern Ishasha sector of the park, famous for its incredible tree-climbing lions. These enigmatic felines are often found draped lazily across the branches of fig trees, a rare and captivating sight found in only a few places worldwide. Enjoy another captivating game drive through this distinctive landscape before commencing your journey back to Kampala/Entebbe.