The 10 best activities in Queen Elizabeth National Park include game watching, lion tracking, boat safaris on the Kazinga Channel, chimpanzee tracking in Kyambura Gorge, bird watching, nature walks, visiting crater lakes, seeing tree-climbing lions in Ishasha, cultural experiences, and fishing on the channel.
Some of the best Uganda safari tour packages to Queen Elizabeth national park
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Queen Elizabeth National Park is centrally located within the western circuit parks during your Uganda safari tour. A common Uganda safari itinerary to this park is a 3-day visit to Queen Elizabeth, but it also combines well with packages from Murchison Falls, Kibale Forest, or Bwindi. Tour packages that include Lake Mburo National Park often run along this western route, with one main road cutting through the park. Even while transiting, there's a chance to spot wildlife if you're fortunate.
List of 10 best Activities to Do in Queen Elizabeth National Park on Uganda Safari Tour
1. Game Watching
Game watching is a premier activity in Queen Elizabeth National Park during your Uganda safari tour. This park is home to elephants, buffaloes, antelopes, and predators like lions and leopards. Guided game drives navigate various habitats, increasing your chances of spotting wildlife. Early morning and late afternoon are ideal for viewing, as animals are more active during these times. Bring binoculars and a camera to capture memorable moments. This activity remains a highlight for many visitors, allowing you to experience the diverse wildlife the park has to offer.
2. Lion Tracking (Experiential)
Lion tracking is a unique experience in Queen Elizabeth National Park on your Uganda safari tour. Guided by experienced trackers, you follow clues like footprints and dung to locate these majestic animals. This tracking activity allows for close observation of lions in their natural setting, often resting in trees or on the ground. Encountering other wildlife along the way makes this adventure even more rewarding. Tracking lions not only enhances your understanding of their behavior but also adds an exciting dimension to your safari experience.
3. Taking a Boat Safari on the Kazinga Channel
Taking a boat safari on the Kazinga Channel is a relaxing and rewarding activity during your Uganda safari tour. This waterway connects Lake Edward and Lake George, attracting various wildlife. Glide along the channel to spot hippos, crocodiles, and numerous bird species, including pelicans and kingfishers. Local guides share interesting facts about the flora and fauna, enriching your experience. The boat ride typically lasts two hours, offering unique perspectives of the park’s wildlife and scenery. This activity is an enjoyable way to unwind while appreciating the park's natural beauty.
4. Going for Chimpanzee Tracking in Kyambura Gorge
Chimpanzee tracking in Kyambura Gorge is an incredible experience on your Uganda safari tour. This forested gorge is home to a community of chimpanzees. The tracking process involves a guided hike through lush vegetation, lasting about two to four hours. Along the way, you may encounter other wildlife, such as monkeys and various birds. Spotting chimps swinging through the trees adds excitement to your safari. This activity provides a chance to observe these fascinating primates in their natural habitat, making it a must-do for wildlife enthusiasts.
5. Bird Watching
Bird watching in Queen Elizabeth National Park is a rewarding activity during your Uganda safari tour. The park is home to over 600 bird species, making it ideal for bird enthusiasts. Various habitats, including wetlands and savannahs, attract diverse bird species. Popular sightings include the African fish eagle and shoebill stork. Guided birding tours are available, with expert guides assisting in identifying birds. Early mornings are particularly vibrant, as birds are most active. This activity allows you to appreciate the park’s avian diversity while enjoying the tranquility of the surroundings.
6. Nature Walks
Nature walks in Queen Elizabeth National Park offer opportunities to explore the park during your Uganda safari tour. Guided by experienced rangers, you stroll through various ecosystems, observing local flora and fauna. These walks provide a closer look at details often missed from a vehicle. You may encounter smaller wildlife, such as monkeys and various bird species. Nature walks can last from one to three hours, depending on your interests and fitness level. This activity allows you to connect with the park’s unique ecosystems while enjoying a peaceful outdoor experience.
7. Visit the Crater Lakes
Visiting the crater lakes in Queen Elizabeth National Park is a scenic highlight during your Uganda safari tour. The park features several crater lakes formed by volcanic activity, each offering unique views. Activities include hiking around the lakes or picnicking, allowing for relaxation and photography. The lakes attract diverse birdlife, making them particularly appealing for bird watchers. Guided tours explore the geological history of the area, enriching your understanding of this fascinating landscape. This activity combines relaxation with opportunities for exploration, making it a memorable part of your safari.
8. Visit Ishasha Sector for Tree-Climbing Lions
Visiting the Ishasha sector to see tree-climbing lions is an exciting experience during your Uganda safari tour. This area is famous for lions that rest in the branches of fig trees, providing a unique viewing opportunity. Guided game drives in Ishasha increase your chances of spotting these lions in their unusual resting spots. The scenic setting enhances wildlife viewing, making it a standout activity for visitors. This experience adds an exciting dimension to your safari, allowing you to see these remarkable animals in a distinctive context.
9. Cultural Experiences with Local Communities
Cultural experiences with local communities add a meaningful element to your Uganda safari tour. Visitors can interact with the Bakonzo and other local tribes, participating in traditional dance performances and cooking demonstrations. These experiences provide insights into local culture and lifestyles, enriching your understanding of the region. Engaging with community members allows for a deeper connection to the area, making your safari tour more memorable. This activity fosters appreciation for the diverse cultures that coexist with the park's wildlife.
10. Fishing on the Kazinga Channel
Fishing on the Kazinga Channel offers a relaxing activity during your Uganda safari tour. The channel is rich in fish species, including Nile perch and tilapia. Guided fishing trips provide all necessary equipment, ensuring a hassle-free experience. While fishing, you can enjoy the scenic beauty of the channel and observe wildlife along the banks, such as hippos and various birds. This activity serves as a peaceful retreat from more active pursuits, allowing you to unwind and connect with the natural surroundings while enjoying a day on the water.
Distance from Kampala to Queen Elizabeth National Park
The distance from Kampala to Queen Elizabeth National Park is approximately 400 kilometers (about 250 miles). The journey typically takes around 6 to 7 hours by road, depending on traffic and road conditions. Travelers can enjoy scenic views along the way, making the trip more enjoyable as they head toward this iconic park.
Distance from Kampala to Bwindi Impenetrable Park
The distance from Kampala to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is about 500 kilometers (approximately 310 miles). The drive usually takes around 8 to 10 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. Travelers can expect a mix of terrain, offering glimpses of rural Uganda on their way to this renowned destination for gorilla tracking.
Distance from Queen Elizabeth to Kibale Forest Park
The distance from Queen Elizabeth National Park to Kibale Forest Park is around 60 kilometers (about 37 miles). The drive typically takes about 2 hours, allowing travelers to enjoy a short journey through the varied landscapes of Uganda. This proximity makes it convenient to explore both parks during a safari tour.
Distance from Queen Elizabeth to Lake Mburo National Park
The distance from Queen Elizabeth National Park to Lake Mburo National Park is approximately 170 kilometers (about 105 miles). The journey usually takes around 3 to 4 hours by road. This makes it feasible for visitors to explore both parks in a single Uganda safari tour, experiencing diverse wildlife and ecosystems along the way.
How to Get to Queen Elizabeth National Park on a Uganda Safari Tour
Travelers can reach Queen Elizabeth National Park by road from Kampala or other major cities. Most choose to hire a private vehicle or join a guided tour. The drive offers scenic views, making the journey enjoyable. Alternatively, some opt for domestic flights to nearby airstrips, followed by a short drive to the park entrance.
Accommodation Options in Queen Elizabeth National Park
Queen Elizabeth National Park has various accommodation options catering to different budgets. Choices range from luxury lodges and mid-range hotels to budget-friendly campsites. Many lodges provide stunning views of the park and its wildlife. Visitors can select accommodations based on their preferences, ensuring a comfortable stay during their Uganda safari tour.
Best Time to Visit Queen Elizabeth National Park
The best time to visit Queen Elizabeth National Park is during the dry seasons, which typically run from June to September and December to February. During these months, wildlife is more easily spotted, and road conditions are generally better. This makes it an ideal time for safari activities, enhancing the overall experience for visitors.
Booking Activities in Queen Elizabeth with Roads of Adventure Safaris
To book activities in Queen Elizabeth National Park with Roads of Adventure Safaris, travelers can visit their website or contact their team directly. We provide a range of activities, including game drives and boat safaris. Early booking is recommended to secure preferred dates and ensure a well-organized Uganda safari tour experience.
