3-Day Queen Elizabeth and Chimpanzees-Join a Group!

A Closer Look at the 3-Day Queen Elizabeth and Chimpanzees Tour

Travel enthusiasts often seek a balanced adventure that combines wildlife encounters, authentic local scenery, and the chance to connect with like-minded explorers. This 3-day group safari to Uganda’s renowned Queen Elizabeth National Park and the Kyambura Game Reserve checks all those boxes. While it’s not a luxury safari, it offers genuine, up-close wildlife experiences with the added benefit of excellent guides and inclusive pricing.

What we especially like about this tour is how it packs in two national parks in just three days, making it an efficient way to see Uganda’s diverse landscapes and animals. The game drives and river cruise promise spectacular wildlife sightings—think elephants, hippos, lions, and crocodiles. Plus, the chimpanzee tracking offers a rare, intimate look at primates swinging through trees, a truly memorable highlight. The group setting makes it ideal for solo travelers eager to share the adventure, and the all-inclusive pricing helps avoid unpleasant surprises.

On the flip side, some might find the long driving hours a bit tiring, especially if you prefer more leisure or private safaris. The itinerary is quite packed to maximize your time, so patience for early mornings and long days is needed. This experience is best suited for travelers craving an active, authentic wildlife exploration with a vibrant group atmosphere.

Who will love this tour?

If you’re a solo traveler, wildlife enthusiast, or someone seeking an affordable yet comprehensive Ugandan safari, this trip is a great pick. It also suits those wanting a structured itinerary with all logistics handled, so you can focus on the animals and scenery.

Key Points

• Two Parks in Three Days: An efficient way to see Uganda’s wildlife hotspots.
• Group Atmosphere: Great for solo travelers and those who enjoy shared adventures.
• Inclusive Pricing: Transfers, meals, and accommodation are covered—no hidden costs.
• Wildlife & Primates: Expect elephants, lions, hippos, crocodiles, and close-up chimpanzee encounters.
• Comfortable Lodging: Stay overnight at Irungu Forest Safari Lodge, a cozy base after exciting days.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides, like Sedrick, enrich the experience with detailed insights.

Exploring the Daily Itinerary in Detail

Day 1: Journey to Queen Elizabeth National Park

Starting from Entebbe, the trip kicks off with a pick-up at Santa Maria Hotel or Entebbe Airport, followed by a scenic drive to Queen Elizabeth National Park. The drive itself is part of the adventure, with a chance to see Uganda’s countryside and local villages. En route, you’ll stop for lunch—an opportunity to fuel up before the wildlife action begins.

The afternoon’s game drive is your first chance to see the park’s inhabitants, including warthogs, elephants, topis, and Cape buffalo. Reviewers mention that guides like Sedrick are well-versed in spotting animals and identifying birds, making the game drive educational and engaging. Expect to see tropical birds, and perhaps even some elusive predators like lions if luck is on your side.

Overnight stays are at Irungu Forest Safari Lodge, which offers a comfortable retreat amidst nature. While the lodge might not be five-star luxury, guests note that it strikes a good balance of comfort and authenticity, enhancing the overall experience.

Day 2: Full-Day Wildlife Encounters & Kazinga Channel Cruise

The second day is packed with wildlife highlights. It begins early with a morning game drive aimed at spotting the big five—buffalo, elephants, lions, and potentially leopards. Our review quotes a guest praising guide Sedrick for his animal knowledge, which helps in spotting and understanding these magnificent creatures.

Later in the afternoon, the adventure shifts to a launch cruise along Kazinga Channel. Here, you’ll witness hippos, crocodiles, buffalo, and a raft of bird species, including some rare sightings like the shoebill. The cruise provides a different perspective of the animals, and many reviews mention how relaxing and scenic it feels—plus, it’s a fantastic chance for photography.

Dinner and another overnight at Irungu Lodge round out the day. Guests consistently mention the delicious meals, which are part of the all-inclusive package, making the trip smooth and convenient.

Day 3: Chimpanzee Tracking & Return to Kampala

The final day offers a more intimate wildlife experience with chimpanzee tracking at Kyambura Gorge. Travelers will leave early for Kalinzu Forest, where guided treks allow you to observe these intelligent primates swinging through the trees, fighting over food, and playing. Multiple reviewers highlight how close-up and fascinating this encounter can be, often describing it as a “life-changing” moment.

Following chimpanzee tracking, the group heads back towards Kampala, with lunch en route. The drive back is a chance to reflect on the trip’s highlights and enjoy Uganda’s lush landscapes.

The trip concludes late evening at Entebbe International Airport, exactly as scheduled. This well-organized finish leaves little room for planning stress, allowing you to focus on your memories and photos.

The Transport & Group Size

Transportation is with a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle suited for long drives and game viewing. The tour is limited to a maximum of 200 travelers, but most groups are smaller, fostering more personalized interactions. The guides, like Sedrick, are praised repeatedly for their patience, extensive knowledge, and friendly demeanor.

Meals & Accommodation

All meals are included, which is a huge convenience, especially during the long days of game drives and boat cruises. The meals are described as tasty and satisfying, often served at the lodge or en route. Accommodation at Irungu Forest Safari Lodge offers a rustic chic environment, with guests mentioning its cozy ambiance, good service, and proximity to key park entrances.

Pricing & Value

At $1,000 per person, this tour offers solid value considering transfers, meals, lodge stays, and the guided activities. Compared with standalone safaris or private tours, this group experience simplifies logistics and reduces costs, making it accessible for solo travelers or small groups. Many reviews stress that the experience feels personalized, despite the group setting, thanks to knowledgeable guides and well-organized logistics.

Authentic Experiences and Hidden Gems

Beyond the typical safari highlights, this tour offers special touches that reviewers appreciated. For example, guides like Sedrick are known for sharing interesting facts about animals and Ugandan culture, turning the trip into an educational experience. Reviewers also mention enjoying the scenic views, birdwatching opportunities, and the chance to see animals in their natural habitat, unbothered by crowds.

The chimpanzee tracking at Kyambura Gorge is particularly praised, with guests describing it as a “fascinating” and “amazing” highlight—close encounters that are often described as “life-changing.” The guided trek helps you understand primate behavior, making it more than just a sighting but an insightful experience.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

If you’re looking for an affordable, well-organized safari that combines wildlife viewing, primate encounters, and scenic river cruises, this trip offers remarkable value. The all-inclusive nature removes the hassle of managing logistics, and the group setting fosters camaraderie. The guides’ knowledge and friendly demeanor shine through in numerous reviews, making the experience educational, fun, and memorable.

It’s especially good for solo travelers or small groups eager to explore Uganda without the hefty price tag of private safaris. The packed itinerary suits those who want a comprehensive taste of Uganda’s wilderness in just three days.

However, be prepared for long days with early starts and travel time. If you prefer a more relaxed pace or private experiences, you might want to consider alternatives. But for those craving authentic wildlife encounters with good company and expert guidance, this safari hits the sweet spot.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
The $1,000 fee covers transfers from Entebbe, accommodation at Irungu Forest Safari Lodge, all meals, park entrance fees, and guided activities like game drives, river cruises, and chimpanzee tracking.

Is the tour suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, the tour is designed as a group experience, making it ideal for solo travelers who want to meet like-minded adventurers while exploring Uganda’s wildlife.

How long are the travel days?
Expect long days of approximately 8 to 10 hours, including travel, game drives, boat cruises, and chimpanzee treks, so be prepared for an active schedule.

Are meals included?
Yes, all meals are included in the package, offering convenience and allowing you to enjoy local cuisine during your stay.

What accommodations are provided?
Guests stay overnight at Irungu Forest Safari Lodge, which offers comfortable, rustic accommodations near the park, with good reviews for its hospitality and ambiance.

Can I see the Big Five?
Yes, the second day’s game drive is designed to maximize your chances of spotting elephants, buffalos, lions, and other iconic animals.

How difficult is the chimpanzee tracking?
The chimpanzee trek involves walking through Kalinzu Forest, which can be somewhat challenging but is manageable for most travelers. Guides assist with navigation and primate observation.

What happens if the weather is poor?
The tour relies on good weather, but if canceled due to adverse conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

To sum it up, this 3-day safari offers a well-rounded, value-packed adventure into Uganda’s wild heart. It’s perfect for those seeking a mix of game viewing, primate encounters, and scenic river cruises with the ease of organized logistics and the camaraderie of group travel. If you’re after an authentic experience that balances adventure and comfort, this tour is definitely worth considering.