Embark on a 2-day safari adventure in Queen Elizabeth National Park. Explore diverse landscapes, from savannahs to volcanic craters. Encounter iconic wildlife, including tree-climbing lions, elephants, and buffaloes. Enjoy thrilling game drives, scenic vistas, and cultural interactions. Experience Uganda’s natural beauty and biodiversity in just two days.
Highlights
- Game Drives: Experience thrilling game drives through diverse habitats teeming with wildlife.
- Boat Cruise on the Kazinga Channel: Enjoy a scenic boat ride with close-up views of hippos, crocodiles, and numerous bird species.
- Tree-Climbing Lions: Spot the unique tree-climbing lions in the Ishasha sector.
- Crater Lakes and Scenic Views: Explore the stunning volcanic crater lakes and enjoy panoramic views of the Rift Valley.
- Cultural Encounters: Engage with local communities and learn about their traditional lifestyles.
Day 1: Kampala/Entebbe to Queen Elizabeth National Park
Your journey begins with an early morning pick-up from Kampala or Entebbe. Your guide will brief you on the safari itinerary as you set off on a picturesque drive towards Queen Elizabeth National Park. The drive takes approximately 6-7 hours, allowing for several stops along the way to stretch and take in the stunning Ugandan countryside.
As you head west, you will pass through traditional Ugandan villages and rolling hills. A stop at the Equator line is a must, where you can take photos and learn about the geographical significance of this imaginary line that divides the earth into northern and southern hemispheres.
Arriving at Queen Elizabeth National Park in the early afternoon, you will check into your lodge and enjoy a hearty lunch. The lodges in and around the park offer comfortable accommodations with spectacular views of the surrounding landscapes.
Afternoon Game Drive
After lunch, embark on your first game drive. The park’s northern sector, known as Kasenyi Plains, is ideal for spotting large herds of elephants, buffaloes, antelopes, and predators like lions and leopards. The open savannahs make for excellent game viewing and photography.
Return to your lodge as the sun sets over the park, painting the sky with hues of orange and pink. Enjoy dinner and relax by the campfire, sharing stories and experiences from the day with fellow travelers.
Day 2: Queen Elizabeth National Park and Return to Kampala/Entebbe
Start your day with an early morning game drive to maximize your chances of spotting wildlife, as animals are most active during the cooler hours. Venture into different areas of the park, such as the Mweya Peninsula, known for its rich biodiversity and scenic beauty.
One of the highlights of your safari is the boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel, a natural waterway connecting Lake Edward and Lake George. This two-hour cruise offers close-up views of hippos basking in the water, crocodiles sunning on the banks, and a plethora of bird species, including African fish eagles, kingfishers, and pelicans. The channel is a haven for wildlife, and the cruise provides excellent photo opportunities.
Visit to the Ishasha Sector
If time permits, a visit to the Ishasha sector in the southern part of the park is highly recommended. This area is famous for its tree-climbing lions, a rare behavior exhibited by these big cats. Seeing lions perched in the branches of large fig trees is a unique and thrilling sight.
After the morning activities, return to your lodge for a delicious lunch. Post-lunch, you may have the opportunity to visit a nearby community and engage in a cultural encounter. Learn about the traditional ways of life, participate in local dances, and gain insights into the customs and practices of the people living around the park.
Return to Kampala/Entebbe
In the late afternoon, begin your journey back to Kampala or Entebbe. Reflect on the incredible experiences and wildlife encounters as you drive through the scenic landscapes. Your guide will ensure a smooth and comfortable journey, with stops for refreshments along the way.
You will arrive in Kampala or Entebbe in the evening, marking the end of your 2-day safari adventure. Whether you’re heading back to your hotel or catching a flight, you’ll leave with memories of an unforgettable wildlife experience in one of Uganda’s most cherished national parks.