Detailed Safari
Day 1: Drive from Kampala to Queen Elizabeth National Park
Your day starts early with a scenic drive from Kampala heading west toward Queen Elizabeth National Park. The journey is full of gorgeous landscapes — tea estates, rolling hills, roadside markets, and small towns full of life. You stop in Mbarara for lunch before continuing to the park.
Arrive in the afternoon, check in to your lodge and relax as you take in sweeping views of the savannah. Later, you can take a short evening drive near the lodge area depending on time. Settle in for dinner and a peaceful night inside the wild.
Accommodation Suggestions:
- Budget: Pumba Safari Cottages / Bush Lodge (Lazy Camping) / Tembo Safari Lodge
- Mid-range: Elephant Hub Lodge / Irungu Safari Lodge / Buffalo Safari Lodge
- Luxury: Mweya Safari Lodge / Kyambura Gorge Lodge / Elephant Plains Lodge
Meal Plan: Lunch en route, Dinner at the lodge
Day 2: Game Drive & Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise
After breakfast, you head into the Kasenyi plains for a powerful morning game drive. This area is rich with wildlife — lions often follow herds of kob, elephants roam near the tracks, buffaloes graze in open fields, and warthogs trot confidently around the savannah. The golden morning light brings the plains to life, giving you fantastic photography moments.
Return to the lodge for lunch before heading to the Kazinga Channel for a rewarding boat cruise. This channel is a magnet for wildlife: huge pods of hippos, wallowing buffaloes, crocodiles basking on the banks and many birds along the shoreline. Elephants frequently gather here to drink and cool off. After the cruise, drive back to your lodge and relax.
Accommodation Suggestions:
- Budget: Pumba Safari Cottages / Bush Lodge (Lazy Camping) / Tembo Safari Lodge
- Mid-range: Elephant Hub Lodge / Irungu Safari Lodge / Buffalo Safari Lodge
- Luxury: Mweya Safari Lodge / Kyambura Gorge Lodge / Elephant Plains Lodge
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3: Transfer to Kibale Forest + Chimpanzee Tracking
Enjoy breakfast and take a relaxed drive toward Kibale Forest National Park — the primate capital of East Africa. The route passes scenic crater lakes, evergreen forests and charming villages.
On arrival, you head to Kanyanchu Visitor Centre for a briefing before starting your chimpanzee trek. The forest is alive with energy — birds singing, monkeys jumping between trees and chimps communicating loudly in the canopy. Once you locate a chimpanzee community, you spend time watching them feed, groom, play and swing gracefully across branches.
After your trek, check in to your lodge, unwind and enjoy the cool forest atmosphere.
Accommodation Suggestions:
- Budget: Kibale Forest Camp (Lazy Camping) / Chimpanzee Forest Guest House (Budget Rooms) / Lake Nkuruba Nature Reserve
- Mid-range: Isunga Lodge / Turaco Treetops / Chimpanzee Forest Guest House (Cottages)
- Luxury: Kyaninga Lodge / Ndali Lodge / Crater Safari Lodge
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4: Drive Back to Kampala
Enjoy a calm breakfast surrounded by nature. Afterwards, begin your drive back to Kampala. You may make short scenic stops along the way or visit roadside markets for fresh fruits and crafts. You arrive in the afternoon or early evening, marking the end of your exciting safari.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch en route
Best Time to Do the Safari
The best time for this safari is during the dry months: June to September and December to February. These months offer better wildlife sightings, clearer trails for chimp trekking and easier game drives.
However, Queen Elizabeth and Kibale are open all year, and even the wetter months offer lush scenery and good wildlife encounters.
Estimated Cost Per Person (Based on 6 People Sharing)
| Comfort Level | Estimated Cost Per Person |
|---|---|
| Budget | USD 900 – 1,150 |
| Mid-range | USD 1,250 – 1,650 |
| Luxury | USD 1,900 – 2,800+ |
Notes:
- Costs include transport, fuel, driver/guide, park fees, chimp trekking permit, activities and accommodation.
- Luxury prices vary greatly depending on lodge selection.
- Optional expenses such as alcoholic drinks, tips and personal items are not included.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I see tree-climbing lions on this safari?
Yes, Ishasha Sector in the southern part of Queen Elizabeth NP is famous for tree-climbing lions. A visit can be added on request.
Q: How difficult is chimp trekking?
Chimpanzee trekking is moderate. Trails can be slippery but the walk is manageable for most travellers.
Q: What is the age limit for chimp trekking?
Participants must be at least 12 years old.
Q: What should I wear for the trek?
Hiking boots, long trousers, long-sleeved shirt, rain jacket, and insect repellent.
Q: Are the lodges close to the parks?
Yes, accommodation options listed are located within or near the parks for easy access to activities.
Q: Is the safari suitable for kids?
Yes for the game drive and boat cruise; however, chimp trekking is for ages 12 and above.