3 Days Wild Tour Queen Elizabeth National Park Safari Uganda

Planning a safari that combines wildlife, stunning scenery, and cultural highlights? This 3-day Queen Elizabeth National Park tour from Kampala promises just that—and more. With a perfect 5.0 rating from 36 reviews, this private adventure is clearly a favorite among travelers looking for an authentic Ugandan experience.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the expert guides and well-organized logistics ensure you get the most out of every moment. Second, the diverse wildlife sightings, from lions hunting at dusk to hippos lounging in the Kazinga Channel, promise unforgettable moments. Lastly, the value for money is impressive given the included activities, park fees, and boat rides.

One consideration? Since the tour is quite packed, you’ll want to be prepared for early mornings and long days. But if you’re up for a true wildlife adventure, this trip is a fantastic choice. It’s especially suited for nature lovers, wildlife photographers, and those eager to explore Uganda’s famed “Pearl of Africa.”

Key Points

• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable, friendly, and passionate guides make all the difference.
• Wildlife & Scenery: Expect diverse animals, boat cruises, and breathtaking views.
• Well-Organized Itinerary: Seamless logistics with included park fees and meals.
• Authentic Experience: Private transport, flexible arrangements, and local insights.
• Value for Money: All major activities, transfers, and park entries included for $1,300.
• Perfect for: Wildlife enthusiasts, adventure travelers, and cultural explorers.

An Authentic and Well-Executed Ugandan Safari

This 3-day Queen Elizabeth National Park safari offers a balanced mix of wildlife encounters, scenic beauty, and cultural insights, all wrapped in the comfort of private transport and guided expertise. We’re often asked about value, and at $1,300, considering all activities, park fees, and meals, it’s quite a comprehensive package that suits travelers eager to maximize their safari experience.

The tour is operated by KUBWA FIVE SAFARIS LIMITED, a company with many glowing reviews and a reputation for professionalism. The reviews highlight the guides’ extensive knowledge—many mention guides like Steven, who are praised for spotting animals and sharing interesting facts. The personalized service ensures you get tailored attention, whether you’re in a group or traveling alone.

The Itinerary in Detail: What to Expect

Day 1: From Entebbe to Kampala and Mabamba Swamp

Your adventure kicks off with pickup at Entebbe Airport. Expect your guide to be waiting with a sign, ready to whisk you away into Uganda’s vibrant capital city.

First stop is Mabamba Swamp, a haven for bird lovers. While the admission is free, this stop is all about spotting elusive shoebill storks and soaking in the lush surroundings. Reviewers loved this introduction, with one mentioning it as a “breathtaking experience,” setting the tone for the trip ahead.

Next, you’ll explore Kampala’s lively markets and street food. The city sprawls over more than 20 hills, with Owino Market and Nakasero Market offering colorful sights, sounds, and smells. Here, you’ll get a taste of local life and maybe pick up some souvenirs like wood carvings or woven mats.

This first day helps you get acclimated to Uganda’s vibrant culture and prepares you for the wildlife adventures to come.

Day 2: Into the Wilderness – Queen Elizabeth National Park

Depart early at 6:00 am for the heart of Uganda’s wildlife corridor. The drive offers scenic views and the chance to observe rural life. Expect to stop for lunch en route—an opportunity to stretch your legs and fuel up.

Arriving in the park in the afternoon, your first game drive aims to catch predators like lions hunting at dusk—an experience highly praised by reviewers as “breathtaking,” especially when lions hunt as the temperature cools. The park also hosts elephants, buffalo, warthogs, leopards, and waterbucks, with guided sightings often described as spot-on thanks to expert guides like Peter.

Most reviewers emphasize the value of private transport—a 4×4 or minivan—making the game drives comfortable and flexible. Expect the guides to be attentive, sharing interesting facts about animal behavior and the park’s ecosystem.

Dinner is served at either Engiri Game Lodge or Simba Safari Camp, both praised for their cozy atmosphere and good food. Many reviews highlight the friendly staff and the memorable wildlife sightings that make this day special.

Day 3: Kazinga Channel and Return to Kampala

Start your day with breakfast followed by a boat cruise on Kazinga Channel. This waterway connects Lake Edward and Lake George and is renowned for its large herds of buffalo, hippos, and birdlife. Several reviews call this the highlight of the trip; the chance to see hippos and buffalo up close is something many travelers cherish.

After the boat ride, you’ll head towards the Equator in Masaka, a must-visit stopover for photos and souvenirs. The famous line at Kayabwe is a fun photo op—many travelers share their “I crossed the Equator” shots, and some do the water experiments to demonstrate the Coriolis effect.

Late afternoon, you’ll begin the journey back to Kampala and Entebbe, arriving in the evening. The logistics are straightforward, and the tour provider makes sure everything runs smoothly, allowing you to relax after an action-packed few days.

What Sets This Tour Apart

Guided Expertise and Personalized Attention
The reviews repeatedly mention the guides’ knowledge—many note guides like Steven and Peter for their sharp eyes and friendliness. The private nature of the tour means fewer crowds and more tailored experiences.

Diverse wildlife sightings are a major draw, with many travelers mentioning they saw the Big Five and rare bird species, thanks to the strategic game drives and boat cruises. Reviewers also highlight how guides helped them find elusive animals and shared fascinating facts.

Comfortable transportation in private 4x4s or minivans ensures that long drives are manageable, with plenty of space for photography and rest. The logistics are well-managed, with park entry fees and meals included, simplifying your planning.

Scenic diversity is remarkable—lush wetlands, savannah plains, and the lush Kazinga Channel make for incredible photography and memories. Reviewers loved the boat cruise, often calling it the best part of the trip.

Cultural & Local Insights

Aside from wildlife, the tour offers glimpses into Ugandan culture through visits to markets and the Owino Market in Kampala. Many found this insight into local life enriching and a good balance to the wild safari experience.

Value for Money

Given the inclusions—park fees, boat rides, meals, and guided transfers—the price of $1,300 offers good value. A review praised this as a “seamless” experience, with many noting that every dollar was well spent considering the quality of activities and guides.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Bring layers: Early mornings and evenings can be cool, especially during game drives.
• Camera gear: Binoculars and zoom lenses are recommended for wildlife sightings.
• Cash for tips: Guides and staff appreciate tips; small bills are handy.
• Pack light but smart: Pack insect repellent, sunscreen, and a hat for sun protection.
• Respect the wildlife: Keep noise to a minimum during game drives and boat rides.
• Early starts: Prepare for early mornings—most activities begin around 6 am.
• Stay flexible: The guides are skilled at adjusting plans based on animal activity and weather.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This tour is ideal for wildlife enthusiasts keen to see Uganda’s “Big Five” and birdwatchers eager to spot over 500 species. It’s perfect for those who want a comprehensive, guided experience without the hassle of planning every detail.

Travelers who enjoy scenic boat rides, cultural stops, and guided game drives will find this package hits all the right notes. It’s also suited for adventurers comfortable with early mornings and long days, and those seeking a solid introduction to Uganda’s natural treasures.

FAQs

Is pickup and drop-off at Entebbe Airport included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off at Entebbe Airport, making the start and end of your trip seamless.

What meals are included during the tour?
You’ll enjoy breakfast, dinner, and lunch on days 2 and 3, with details on specific meal arrangements provided by your guide.

Are park entrance fees included?
Yes, all park entry fees are incorporated into the tour price, so no surprise costs during the game drives or boat cruise.

Can the tour accommodate different group sizes?
Absolutely. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or in a larger group, the private transport and guides adapt to your party.

What wildlife can I expect to see?
Expect to see lions, buffalo, elephants, warthogs, leopards, waterbucks, hippos, and many bird species. Many travelers have shared sightings of the Big Five and other memorable animals.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Most reviews suggest that the tour is flexible and family-friendly, provided children are comfortable with early mornings and long drives.

How long are the game drives?
Game drives generally last a few hours each, giving ample time to spot animals and enjoy the scenery at a relaxed pace.

What is the duration of the boat cruise?
The Kazinga Channel boat cruise offers a refreshing perspective from the water, with many reviewers calling it a highlight. Duration details are flexible but typically last around an hour.

Do I need a visa or personal insurance?
Visa fees and personal insurance are not included in the tour price, so check your requirements before traveling.

How physically demanding is the tour?
The tour involves early mornings and some vehicle transfers, but overall it’s suitable for most travelers who are comfortable with basic walking and sitting for extended periods.

Final Thoughts

The 3 Days Wild Tour Queen Elizabeth National Park Safari offers a well-rounded taste of Uganda’s wildlife, culture, and landscape, all guided by experienced professionals. With excellent reviews praising the guides, wildlife sightings, and organization, it’s clear this safari provides great value and memorable moments.

Whether you’re a wildlife fanatic, a photographer chasing that perfect shot, or simply someone wanting to experience Uganda’s natural beauty, this tour ticks all the boxes. It’s a fantastic way to see the Big Five, cruise the Kazinga Channel, and enjoy Uganda’s natural wonders—all in just three days.

For travelers seeking a carefully curated, authentic safari with a touch of comfort and personal service, this tour is hard to beat. Just be prepared for early mornings and keep your camera ready—you won’t want to miss a moment.