This 6-day wildlife safari in Queen Elizabeth National Park offers a rich and immersive experience in one of Uganda’s most diverse and scenic savannah parks. Designed for travelers who want more than just game drives, this itinerary combines wildlife viewing with conservation experiences, cultural encounters, and guided nature activities. From chimpanzee tracking in Kyambura Gorge to lion tracking with researchers and exploring the famous tree-climbing lions of Ishasha, this safari provides a well-rounded journey through Uganda’s natural and cultural landscapes.

Safari Highlights

• Scenic transfer from Kampala to Queen Elizabeth National Park
• Game drives in Kasenyi Plains and Ishasha Sector
• Chimpanzee tracking in Kyambura Gorge
• Lion tracking experience with researchers
• Kazinga Channel boat cruise
• Visit to Kikorongo Cultural Centre
• Guided nature walks and birdwatching
• Visit to Katwe Salt Lake and Lake Munyenyange
• Community agro-tour experience
• Tree-climbing lions in Ishasha

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park & Evening Game Drive

After breakfast, depart Kampala and drive southwest toward Queen Elizabeth National Park, passing through scenic countryside and local towns. You will have a lunch stop along the way before continuing to the park. Upon arrival in the afternoon, check in at your lodge and relax briefly before heading out for an evening game drive on the Kasenyi Plains. This area is known for its rich wildlife, including elephants, buffaloes, antelopes, and lions. Return to your lodge for dinner and overnight stay.

Accommodation Options:
Luxury: Mweya Safari Lodge
Mid-range: Kyambura Game Lodge
Budget: Simba Safari Camp

Day 2: Chimpanzee Tracking in Kyambura Gorge & Cultural Experience

Start your day with an early breakfast before heading to Kyambura Gorge for chimpanzee tracking. This unique forested gorge offers a chance to observe chimpanzees in their natural habitat as they move through the trees and interact socially. After the trek, return to your lodge for lunch. In the afternoon, visit Kikorongo Cultural Centre, where you will engage with local women and learn traditional crafts such as basket weaving and bead-making. Enjoy cultural performances before ending the day with an evening game drive. Dinner and overnight at your lodge.

Day 3: Lion Tracking & Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise

After breakfast, join a lion tracking experience led by researchers, offering insight into conservation efforts and lion behavior in the park. This hands-on activity allows you to follow radio-collared lions and learn how they are monitored. Return to the lodge for lunch, then head out for an afternoon boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel. This waterway is famous for its high concentration of hippos, crocodiles, elephants, and numerous bird species along the shores. Later, you may opt for a scenic crater drive to Baboon Cliffs for panoramic views before returning to your lodge for dinner and overnight.

Day 4: Nature Walk, Katwe Salt Lake & Evening Game Drive

Begin the day with a guided nature walk around Lake Kikorongo, a great opportunity for birdwatching and spotting smaller wildlife. After lunch, visit Katwe Salt Lake to learn about traditional salt mining methods that have supported local communities for generations. Continue to Lake Munyenyange, where you may spot flamingos (seasonal) and other birdlife. In the evening, enjoy another game drive along the Channel Track before returning to your lodge for dinner and overnight.

Day 5: Community Agro Tour & Ishasha Tree-Climbing Lions

After breakfast, take part in a community agro-tour where you will learn about local farming practices, beekeeping, and traditional uses of plants. Later, transfer to the Ishasha Sector, enjoying a picnic lunch en route. In the afternoon, explore the Ishasha Plains in search of the famous tree-climbing lions, often seen resting in fig trees. You will also enjoy a guided nature walk along the Ishasha River, offering a closer look at the ecosystem. Dinner and overnight at your lodge.

Day 6: Morning Game Drive & Return to Kampala

On your final day, enjoy an early morning game drive in the Ishasha Sector, with chances to see elephants, buffaloes, Uganda kobs, and possibly tree-climbing lions. After breakfast or lunch, begin your return journey to Kampala, passing through scenic landscapes. You will arrive in the evening and be dropped off at your hotel or Entebbe International Airport, marking the end of your safari.

Inclusions

• Private safari vehicle and professional driver-guide
• Accommodation and meals as per itinerary
• Park entry fees
• Chimpanzee tracking in Kyambura Gorge
• Lion tracking experience
• Kazinga Channel boat cruise
• Guided nature walks and community visits
• Bottled drinking water during the safari

Exclusions

• International flights
• Uganda visa fees
• Travel insurance
• Personal expenses (drinks, laundry, souvenirs)
• Tips and gratuities
• Optional activities not listed in the itinerary