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3 Day Queen Elizabeth National Park Safari

Overview

Experience the untamed beauty of Uganda on this 3 Day Queen Elizabeth National Park Safari, a perfectly balanced wildlife adventure designed for travelers seeking rich safari experiences within a short time. Set in the heart of western Uganda, Queen Elizabeth National Park is one of the country’s most diverse and rewarding safari destinations—famed for its sweeping savannah plains, crater lakes, wetlands and incredible wildlife diversity.

This itinerary combines classic wildlife safari experiences with chimpanzee tracking, offering the chance to spot elephants, buffaloes, lions and hippos, while also exploring lush forest ecosystems. Highlights include game drives in the Kasenyi plains, a scenic boat cruise along the famous Kazinga Channel and an exciting chimpanzee trekking experience in Kalinzu Forest Reserve. Whether you’re a first-time safari traveler or returning to Uganda, this trip delivers unforgettable moments in just three days.

TRIP ITINERARY

Tour Plan

Day 1

Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park & Evening Game Drive

Your safari begins with an early morning pick-up from your hotel in Kampala or Entebbe. After a short briefing, you’ll set off on a scenic drive southwest toward Queen Elizabeth National Park, a journey of approximately 6 to 7 hours.

Along the way, enjoy the changing landscapes—from bustling towns to rolling hills, banana plantations, and open countryside. You’ll pass through the Ankole region, known for its iconic long-horned cattle, and continue past lush tea estates near Ishaka, where the air feels cooler and greener.

Arriving in the park in the early afternoon, you’ll check into your lodge and take some time to relax before heading out for your first wildlife experience—an evening game drive.

As the sun begins to set, the savannah comes alive. This is an excellent time to spot elephants grazing, buffaloes moving in herds, Uganda kobs scattered across the plains, and warthogs darting through the grass. With a bit of luck, you may also encounter predators such as lions or even a leopard preparing for the night.

Return to your lodge in the evening for dinner and a peaceful night surrounded by the sounds of the African wilderness.

🏨 Luxury: Mazike Valley Lodge

🏨 Midrange: Elephant Hab Lodge

🏨 Budget: Pumba Safari Lodge

🍽 Meal Plan: Lunch & Dinner

Day 2

Morning Game Drive in Kasenyi & Boat Cruise on the Kazinga Channel

Wake up early for a sunrise game drive in the Kasenyi Plains, one of the best wildlife viewing areas in Queen Elizabeth National Park. Early mornings are ideal for spotting predators, especially lions, as they are often active during the cooler hours.

As you explore the golden savannah, keep your camera ready for sightings of elephants, buffaloes, waterbucks, hyenas, and large herds of Uganda kobs. The open plains provide excellent visibility, making it easier to track wildlife and observe natural behaviors.

After the game drive, return to your lodge for a late breakfast and some relaxation before lunch.

Afternoon: Kazinga Channel Boat Safari

In the afternoon, head to the famous Kazinga Channel, a natural waterway that connects Lake Edward and Lake George. This boat cruise is one of the highlights of any Uganda wildlife safari.

As you glide along the channel, you’ll witness one of the highest concentrations of hippos in Africa—often seen clustered together in the water. Along the banks, elephants, buffaloes, and antelopes gather to drink, while Nile crocodiles bask in the sun.

Birdlife here is exceptional, with species such as African fish eagles, kingfishers, pelicans, and herons providing incredible photography opportunities.

After the cruise, return to your lodge. If time and energy allow, you may enjoy a short evening game drive on your way back.

🏨 Accommodation: Same as Day 1

🍽 Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 3

Chimpanzee Tracking in Kalinzu Forest Reserve & Return to Kampala/Entebbe

After an early breakfast, transfer to Kalinzu Forest Reserve, located just outside Queen Elizabeth National Park, for an exciting chimpanzee tracking experience.

Morning: Chimpanzee Tracking

Following a detailed briefing by your ranger guide, you’ll enter the forest in search of chimpanzees. The trek typically lasts 2 to 4 hours, depending on the chimps’ location and movement.

Kalinzu Forest is home to a healthy population of chimpanzees, and sightings are highly rewarding. As you move through the forest, listen for their loud calls echoing through the trees—often the first sign that you are getting close.

Once you locate them, you’ll spend one full hour observing the chimpanzees in their natural habitat. Watch them climb, swing between branches, groom one another, and communicate in their lively social groups. Compared to gorilla trekking, chimpanzee tracking is more dynamic and energetic, offering a completely different but equally fascinating primate experience.

The forest is also rich in biodiversity, with sightings of olive baboons, colobus monkeys, and numerous bird species adding to the experience.

Return Journey

After the trek, begin your journey back to Kampala or Entebbe, with a lunch stop along the way. The return drive takes approximately 6 to 7 hours, offering one last chance to enjoy Uganda’s scenic countryside.

You’ll arrive in the late afternoon or evening, where your guide will drop you off at your hotel or at Entebbe International Airport, marking the end of your memorable 3 Day Uganda wildlife safari.

🍽 Meal Plan: Breakfast & Lunch

INCLUDES & EXCLUDES

Includes

Airport transfers on the first and last day
Transport in a 4×4 safari vehicle
Services of an English-speaking driver/guide
Fuel for the entire trip
Accommodation and meal plan as per the itinerary
All Park entrance fees
Drinking water while in the vehicle

Excludes

Pre and post tour accommodation in Entebbe or Kampala
International airfares
Uganda Visa (USD50.00 which can be paid on arrival at the Airport

TOUR MAP

GENERAL FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the safari price?

Our safari prices typically include accommodation, transportation, park entrance fees, guide services, meals as specified in the itinerary and activities listed in the program. Please refer to the itinerary for the exact inclusions.

What is excluded from the safari price?

International flights, visas, travel insurance, tips, personal expenses, laundry services, alcoholic beverages and optional activities are generally not included unless stated otherwise.

How do I book this safari?

Booking is simple. Contact us with your preferred travel dates and number of travelers. Once availability is confirmed, a deposit is required to secure your reservation. The remaining balance is payable before the safari begins.

Can this itinerary be customized?

Yes. All our safaris can be tailored to suit your travel preferences, budget, accommodation standards and available travel dates. Additional destinations and activities can also be added upon request.

What type of accommodation is provided?

Accommodation varies depending on the safari package selected. We offer budget, mid-range and luxury options, all carefully chosen for comfort, service quality and convenient access to safari attractions.

What is the best time to take this safari?

Most of our safaris can be enjoyed throughout the year. Wildlife viewing, trekking conditions and weather patterns may vary depending on the season and destination. We can advise on the best travel period for your interests.

How physically demanding is this safari?

The level of physical activity depends on the itinerary. Wildlife safaris generally require minimal physical effort while activities such as gorilla trekking, chimpanzee tracking and hiking may require a moderate level of fitness.

Do I need a visa for this safari?

Visa requirements vary depending on your nationality and the countries included in your itinerary. Our team will provide guidance on entry requirements and visa application procedures before your trip.

Is travel insurance required?

We strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, trip interruptions, baggage loss and other unforeseen circumstances.

How far in advance should I book?

We recommend booking several months in advance, especially during peak travel seasons. Certain accommodations, permits and safari activities may have limited availability.

Are airport transfers included?

Airport transfers are included where specified in the itinerary. If transfers are not included, we can arrange them for an additional cost.

What safari vehicle will be used?

Depending on the destination, transportation is provided in comfortable and well-maintained 4×4 safari vehicles designed for wildlife viewing and photography.

Can children join this safari?

Many of our safaris are suitable for families with children. However, some activities have minimum age requirements. Please contact us for family-friendly safari recommendations.

Are meals included during the safari?

Meals are included according to the itinerary. Dietary requirements such as vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free and other special meal requests can usually be accommodated with advance notice.

What should I pack for the safari?

We recommend packing comfortable clothing, sturdy walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, a camera, binoculars and any personal medications you may require.

Will I have a professional guide?

Yes. All our safaris are led by experienced professional guides with extensive knowledge of wildlife, local culture and the destinations visited during your journey.

What happens if I need to cancel my booking?

Cancellation policies vary depending on the safari and services booked. Please review our booking terms and conditions or contact us for detailed cancellation information.

Is Wi-Fi available during the safari?

Many lodges and camps offer Wi-Fi access. However, internet connectivity may be limited or unavailable in some remote safari locations.

Can solo travelers book this safari?

Yes. Solo travelers are welcome on our safaris. Single room supplements may apply depending on the accommodation selected.

Is this safari suitable for first-time visitors to Africa?

Absolutely. Our safaris are designed for both first-time visitors and experienced travelers. Our team will assist you with all travel arrangements to ensure a smooth and memorable safari experience.

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