Private 3-Day Tour in Queen Elizabeth Park Safari

This 3-day private tour in Queen Elizabeth National Park promises an authentic Ugandan safari, packed with wildlife encounters, scenic views, and memorable boat cruises. We haven’t personally been on this trip, but honest reviews and detailed itineraries paint a compelling picture of what you can expect.

What we love about this experience? First, the expert guides like Mark and Vincent who seem to know exactly where to find the animals; second, the opportunity to see Big Five animals — lions, elephants, buffalo, and more — in their natural habitat; third, the chance to enjoy a peaceful boat cruise at Kazinga Channel, which is famed for bird-watching and stunning riverbank scenery.

One possible consideration? The price of $885 per person might seem steep for some, but when you weigh it against the comprehensive activities, park fees, and guided expertise, it offers good value. This tour is best suited for travelers craving a well-rounded, intimate safari experience with knowledgeable guides and guaranteed wildlife sightings.

Key Points

• Expert guides like Mark and Vincent enhance the experience with their extensive knowledge.
• Wildlife sightings are plentiful, including lions, elephants, hippos, and more.
• The boat cruise at Kazinga Channel provides excellent birdwatching and scenic views.
• The itinerary balances game drives, boat rides, and leisure, offering diverse ways to experience the park.
• Comfortable lodges and well-organized logistics keep the trip smooth.
• The tour is private, making it ideal for those seeking a personalized adventure.

Exploring the 3-Day Queen Elizabeth Safari

This tour provides a comprehensive taste of Uganda’s second-largest national park, renowned for its tree-climbing lions, diverse birdlife, and vibrant landscapes. The entire experience is designed to balance wildlife observation with moments of relaxation and cultural insight, all delivered through the lens of seasoned guides who know these parks inside out.

Day 1: From Kampala to Queen Elizabeth National Park

Your adventure kicks off with a drive from Entebbe, taking approximately 5-6 hours. Expect a scenic journey filled with vibrant views of local communities, lush tea farms, and sprawling banana plantations. The route itself offers a glimpse into rural Ugandan life, making the drive part of the experience.

Our reviews highlight the scenic value of this drive. One reviewer mentions, “The views of local communities and tea farms made the journey as exciting as the safari itself.” Arriving around lunchtime, you’ll check into your lodge, where the rest of the afternoon is free for relaxing or optional activities. Many guests appreciate the opportunity to unwind after the long drive, while others opt to explore the lodge’s surroundings.

Day 2: Game Drives and Boat Cruise at Kazinga Channel

The next morning begins early — the best time for wildlife sightings. Your guide will take you on game drives across the park’s open savannahs, where animals like lions, hyenas, elephants, buffalos, Uganda Kobs, and hippos roam freely. Reviewers consistently praise guides like Mark for their “expert tracking skills,” which significantly boost your chances of spotting elusive animals like leopards or tree-climbing lions.

Expect to spend several hours on these guided drives, with chances to see predators resting under shady trees or herds grazing in the open. One reviewer mentions, “Mark knew exactly where to find the animals, making the game drives exciting and fruitful.”

After a late breakfast and a hot lunch at the lodge, your afternoon activity is a boat cruise along Kazinga Channel. The cruise lasts around six hours and offers a different perspective of the park’s wildlife. Birdwatchers will love the variety of species such as African fish eagles, kingfishers, ibises, and herons.

Guests report that “seeing elephants and hippos from the boat was a highlight,” and many appreciate the calm atmosphere and spectacular riverbank views. The cruise also provides a glimpse into local fishing communities, adding a cultural layer to your safari.

Day 3: Farewell and Departure

Your last morning starts with a relaxed breakfast before heading back to Kampala. The drive offers more scenic views and the chance to reflect on your wildlife experiences. The entire trip, from game drives to boat cruises, is designed to be both educational and fun, with guides sharing insights into animal behaviors and park ecology.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Highly Knowledgeable Guides: Reviews highlight guides like Mark for their “expert tracking skills,” which make a real difference in spotting wildlife. Their familiarity with animal habits and park terrain ensures a more rewarding safari experience.

Diverse Wildlife Encounters: From the Big Five to countless bird species, the park offers ample opportunities to see Uganda’s stunning biodiversity. Guests mention seeing lions resting under trees, a leopard lurking in the bushes, and elephants grazing near the water.

Authentic African Landscape and Culture: The drive itself reveals Uganda’s lush countryside, local villages, and farming communities, providing a richer understanding of the region beyond the wildlife.

Value for Money: At $885, this private tour includes park entry fees, guided game drives, boat cruise, accommodations, and meals. While it’s a significant investment, reviews suggest it’s well worth the price for the quality of the experience, the professionalism of guides, and the chance to see Uganda’s iconic wildlife.

Comfort and Convenience: Lodges are comfortable, and the itinerary is well-paced, balancing activity with downtime. The private nature of the tour means you avoid crowded safaris, creating a more personalized experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This safari suits travelers who value expert guidance, want to maximize wildlife sightings, and prefer private tours over group excursions. It’s ideal for those looking for an immersive experience that combines game drives with scenic boat rides, all within a manageable 3-day schedule.

It’s also perfect for wildlife enthusiasts eager to see the Big Five, birders hoping for diverse species, or even families seeking a manageable, well-organized adventure. The inclusiveness of meals and park fees means fewer surprises along the way, making it straightforward for travelers who prefer seamless planning.

Practical Details & Tips

The tour operates daily, with departures from Entebbe around 5 AM, allowing for early game viewing while animals are most active. The drive from Entebbe to Queen Elizabeth takes about 5-6 hours, so pack snacks, water, and good footware for the vehicle.

Accommodation options are not specified here but expect lodges with comfortable amenities. The price covers all meals, park fees, and guiding services, making this a transparent package.

Tips for a better experience include bringing binoculars for birdwatching, camera gear for wildlife photography, and light, breathable clothing suitable for outdoor activity. Also, don’t forget insect repellent, as wildlife parks can sometimes be buggy, especially in the early mornings.

The Sum Up

This private 3-day Queen Elizabeth National Park safari offers a balanced mix of adventure, relaxation, and wildlife encounters in a stunning setting. Guided by passionate, knowledgeable professionals, you’ll have the opportunity to see Uganda’s iconic animals in their natural habitat, all while enjoying the comfort of well-organized logistics and cozy lodges.

It’s an excellent choice for travelers seeking a personalized, authentic safari experience that’s rich in wildlife, scenic beauty, and cultural insights. While the cost reflects a premium experience, the level of expertise, the diversity of activities, and the chance to witness Uganda’s wildlife in action make it a worthwhile investment.

Ideal for wildlife lovers, adventure seekers, and those wanting a hassle-free yet immersive Ugandan safari, this tour is sure to leave lasting memories of your African adventure.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
The tour includes park entry fees, meals (breakfast, lunch, dinners), a full-time English-speaking guide, and transportation from Entebbe and back.

Are my activities private or group-based?
This is a private tour, so only your group will participate, ensuring a personalized experience.

How long are the game drives?
Guests typically spend several hours on guided game drives, which are designed to optimize wildlife sightings.

What wildlife can I expect to see?
Expect to see lions, elephants, buffalo, hippos, Uganda Kobs, waterbucks, warthogs, and numerous bird species, including eagles and storks.

Can I do any other activities during the tour?
The main activities include game drives and a boat cruise at Kazinga Channel. Extra activities are not included but can be arranged separately.

What should I pack for the trip?
Bring binoculars, camera, insect repellent, suitable outdoor clothing, sunscreen, and water bottles for the drives.

Is the tour suitable for children or elderly?
While most travelers can participate, consider mobility and health conditions as game drives involve some walking and vehicle transfers.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 3 days in advance for a full refund. Cancellations less than 3 days before the tour are non-refundable.

How experienced are the guides?
Guides like Mark and Vincent are praised for their expert tracking skills, extensive knowledge, and friendly approach, making wildlife spotting more effective and enjoyable.

What if I have dietary restrictions?
Meals are included, and lodges typically accommodate special dietary needs — it’s best to inform in advance.

Embark on this adventure for a true taste of Uganda’s wildlife and landscapes — a trip that promises unforgettable sights and stories to tell long after you return home.