Queen Elizabeth National Park; Uganda's Medley of wonders

Tour Overview

Queen Elizabeth National Park where Tree-Climbing Lions reign & Volcanic Craters Gleam: Discover Queen Elizabeth National Park.

Welcome to Queen Elizabeth National Park (QENP), Uganda's most biodiverse and strikingly beautiful protected area. Often called the "Pearl of the Kazinga," this park isn't just a safari destination it's a breathtaking symphony of landscapes, wildlife, and water. Imagine vast savannahs dotted with acacia trees, deep craters holding emerald lakes, dense rainforests, and the expansive Kazinga Channel flowing between two Great Lakes (Edward and George). This incredible variety creates a stage for an unforgettable cast of characters, from the famous tree-climbing lions to giant forest elephants and over 600 species of birds.

Journey Junction invites you to explore this park of many faces, where every game drive brings a new vista, and every boat cruise reveals a waterworld teeming with life.

The Crown Jewels of Queen Elizabeth National Park

🦁 The Legendary Tree-Climbing Lions of Ishasha: A rare and mesmerizing spectacle found in the remote southern Ishasha sector. Watch in awe as these majestic predators lounge nonchalantly in the sprawling fig and acacia trees a behavior unique to this population in Uganda.

🚤 The Kazinga Channel Boat Safari: The park's undisputed highlight. This 2-hour cruise along the natural channel connecting Lakes Edward and George offers the highest concentration of hippos in Africa and countless Nile crocodiles, buffalo, and elephants drinking at the shore. It's a paradise for birdwatchers, with scores of waterbirds like pelicans, flamingos, kingfishers, and eagles.

🌋 The Mystical Katwe Explosion Craters: Drive along the epic "Crater Drive" on the park's northern rim. This lunar-like landscape features dozens of extinct volcanic craters, some filled with deep blue or salt lakes, offering panoramic views that stretch to the Rwenzori Mountains on a clear day.

🐒 Primate Encounters in Kyambura or Kalinzu Gorge: Descend into the "Valley of Apes" the deep, lush Kyambura Gorge. Trek through a rainforest canopy to observe habituated chimpanzees and other primates in a dramatic geological setting. For a less crowded alternative, Kalinzu Forest offers excellent chimp tracking as well.

🦒 Iconic Savanna Wildlife: The Kasenyi Plains and Mweya Peninsula are classic African savanna, home to large herds of Ugandan kob (the park's signature antelope), elephants, buffalo, spotted hyenas, and leopards. The park boasts over 95 mammal species.

Key Activities with Journey Junction:

1.⁠ ⁠Morning & Afternoon Game Drives: Explore the Kasenyi Plains for lions on the hunt or head to the Ishasha sector for the unique tree-climbing lions.
2.⁠ ⁠Kazinga Channel Launch Trip: The essential boat safari for incredible wildlife viewing and photography.
3.⁠ ⁠Chimpanzee Trekking: Choose between the dramatic Kyambura Gorge experience or the forested trails of Kalinzu.( an extra fee of $50-100 exclusive from the trip cost)
4.⁠ ⁠Crater Lake & Scenic Drive: A breathtaking photographic journey through the park's volcanic past.
5.⁠ ⁠Birding Safaris: A haven for specialists, with species like the martial eagle, flamingos African skimmer, and various endemic species.
6.⁠ ⁠Community & Cultural Visits: Visit the Katwe Salt Lake to learn about traditional salt mining or engage with a fishing community.


Why Explore QENP with Journey Junction?

· Strategic Itineraries: We design routes to maximize your chances of seeing the tree-climbing lions, catching the perfect light on the craters, and experiencing the best of both land and water.
· Expert Guides: Our drivers and park guides have sharp eyes and deep knowledge of animal behavior, especially the elusive lions of Ishasha.
· Accommodation for All Tastes: We secure bookings at the best lodges for your style from luxury lodges with crater views to comfortable tented camps near the channel.
· Seamless Combos: We effortlessly combine your QENP safari with gorilla trekking in Bwindi, a launch trip on the Kazinga, or a relaxation stop at Lake Bunyonyi.

Queen Elizabeth National Park is a masterpiece of nature's diversity.
Ready to witness lions in trees, cruise a channel of giants, and walk the rim of ancient volcanoes?


Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Into the Savannah Predators of the Plains

· 7:00 AM: Pick-up from your hotel in Kampala or Entebbe airport by your Journey Junction guide.
· 7:30 AM: Begin the scenic drive southwest, crossing the Equator for a classic photo stop.
· 1:00 PM: Lunch at a selected restaurant in Mbarara or within the park vicinity.
· 3:00 PM: Enter Queen Elizabeth National Park and head straight for an Afternoon Game Drive on the Kasenyi Plains. This is prime kob mating territory, attracting lions, hyenas, and leopards. Spot elephants, buffalo, and warthogs against the stunning backdrop of Lake George.
· 6:30 PM: Check-in at your lodge. Freshen up and enjoy the sounds of the bush.
· 8:00 PM: Dinner at the lodge. Overnight with the symphony of the African night.
· Meals: Lunch, Dinner

Day 2: Channel of Giants & Craters of Fire

· 6:30 AM: Early breakfast at the lodge.
· 7:00 AM: Morning Game Drive. Explore different tracks, perhaps toward the Mweya Peninsula or the Channel area, for a chance to see nocturnal animals returning to rest and active predators.
· 10:30 AM: Return to the lodge for a short refreshment break.
· 12:00 PM: Transfer to the Mweya Jetty.
· 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM: Highlight - Kazinga Channel Boat Safari. This two-hour launch trip offers unparalleled wildlife viewing: hundreds of hippos, basking crocodiles, elephants, buffalo, and an astounding variety of birds at close range. Your guide and boat captain will provide expert commentary.
· 3:30 PM: Optional Activity Choice:
· Option A: Katwe Explosion Craters Drive: A breathtaking scenic drive along the rim of extinct volcanic craters, some filled with deep lakes, with panoramic views.
· Option B: Lodge Relaxation: Enjoy the lodge's pool and views, or take a guided nature walk.
· 7:00 PM: Farewell Dinner at the lodge. Share stories and highlights of your safari.
· Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3: Apes in the Gorge & Journey Home

· 6:30 AM: Breakfast and check-out from the lodge.
· 7:30 AM: Choose Your Morning Adventure:
· Option 1: Kyambura Gorge Chimpanzee Trekking (Requires pre-booked permit - $50-100 per person): Descend into the "Valley of Apes" for a 2-3 hour trek to track habituated chimps in this dramatic rainforest gorge. An unforgettable primate experience.
· Option 2: Birding & Nature Walk around the lodge area with your guide.
· Option 3: Cultural Visit to the Katwe Salt Lake community project to learn about traditional salt mining (small fee applies).
· 11:00 AM: Begin the return journey to Kampala/Entebbe.
· 1:00 PM: Stop for lunch at a restaurant en-route.
· 5:30 - 6:30 PM: Arrival and drop-off at your hotel or Entebbe International Airport (for evening flights).


Tour Inclusions & Exclusions

✅ INCLUDED:

· All park entry fees and government taxes.
· All game drives and the Kazinga Channel boat safari fee.
· 2 nights' accommodation in a mid-range lodge.
· Meals as specified in the itinerary (2 Breakfasts, 3 Lunches, 2 Dinners).
· Full-time services of a professional English-speaking driver/guide.
· Ground transport in a 4x4 safari vehicle with a pop-up roof.
· Bottled drinking water in the vehicle.
· A special Journey Junction gift from your guide.

Day 1: Into the Savannah – Predators of the Plains

· 7:00 AM: Pick-up from your hotel in Kampala or Entebbe by your Journey Junction guide.
· 7:30 AM: Begin the scenic drive southwest, crossing the Equator for a classic photo stop.
· 1:00 PM: Lunch at a selected restaurant in Mbarara or within the park vicinity.
· 3:00 PM: Enter Queen Elizabeth National Park and head straight for an Afternoon Game Drive on the Kasenyi Plains. This is prime kob mating territory, attracting lions, hyenas, and leopards. Spot elephants, buffalo, and warthogs against the stunning backdrop of Lake George.
· 6:30 PM: Check-in at your lodge. Freshen up and enjoy the sounds of the bush.
· 8:00 PM: Dinner at the lodge. Overnight with the symphony of the African night.
· Meals: Lunch, Dinner

Day 2: Channel of Giants & Craters of Fire

· 6:30 AM: Early breakfast at the lodge.
· 7:00 AM: Morning Game Drive. Explore different tracks, perhaps toward the Mweya Peninsula or the Channel area, for a chance to see nocturnal animals returning to rest and active predators.
· 10:30 AM: Return to the lodge for a short refreshment break.
· 12:00 PM: Transfer to the Mweya Jetty.
· 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM: Highlight - Kazinga Channel Boat Safari. This two-hour launch trip offers unparalleled wildlife viewing: hundreds of hippos, basking crocodiles, elephants, buffalo, and an astounding variety of birds at close range. Your guide and boat captain will provide expert commentary.
· 3:30 PM: Optional Activity Choice:
· Option A: Katwe Explosion Craters Drive: A breathtaking scenic drive along the rim of extinct volcanic craters, some filled with deep lakes, with panoramic views.
· Option B: Lodge Relaxation: Enjoy the lodge's pool and views, or take a guided nature walk.
· 7:00 PM: Farewell Dinner at the lodge. Share stories and highlights of your safari.
· Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3: Apes in the Gorge & Journey Home

· 6:30 AM: Breakfast and check-out from the lodge.
· 7:30 AM: Choose Your Morning Adventure:
· Option 1: Kyambura Gorge Chimpanzee Trekking (Requires pre-booked permit - $80-100 per person): Descend into the "Valley of Apes" for a 2-3 hour trek to track habituated chimps in this dramatic rainforest gorge. An unforgettable primate experience.
· Option 2: Birding & Nature Walk around the lodge area with your guide.
· Option 3: Cultural Visit to the Katwe Salt Lake community project to learn about traditional salt mining (small fee applies).
· 11:00 AM: Begin the return journey to Kampala/Entebbe.
· 1:00 PM: Stop for lunch at a restaurant en-route.
· 5:30 - 6:30 PM: Arrival and drop-off at your hotel or Entebbe International Airport (for evening flights).
· Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

---

Tour Inclusions & Exclusions

✅ INCLUDED:

· All park entry fees and government taxes.
· All game drives and the Kazinga Channel boat safari fee.
· 2 nights' accommodation in a mid-range lodge.
· Meals as specified in the itinerary (2 Breakfasts, 3 Lunches, 2 Dinners).
· Full-time services of a professional English-speaking driver/guide.
· Ground transport in a 4x4 safari vehicle with a pop-up roof.
· Bottled drinking water in the vehicle.
· A special Journey Junction gift from your guide

Day 1: Into the Savannah – Predators of the Plains

· 7:00 AM: Pick-up from your hotel in Kampala or Entebbe by your Journey Junction guide.
· 7:30 AM: Begin the scenic drive southwest, crossing the Equator for a classic photo stop.
· 1:00 PM: Lunch at a selected restaurant in Mbarara or within the park vicinity.
· 3:00 PM: Enter Queen Elizabeth National Park and head straight for an Afternoon Game Drive on the Kasenyi Plains. This is prime kob mating territory, attracting lions, hyenas, and leopards. Spot elephants, buffalo, and warthogs against the stunning backdrop of Lake George.
· 6:30 PM: Check-in at your lodge. Freshen up and enjoy the sounds of the bush.
· 8:00 PM: Dinner at the lodge. Overnight with the symphony of the African night.
· Meals: Lunch, Dinner

Day 2: Channel of Giants & Craters of Fire

· 6:30 AM: Early breakfast at the lodge.
· 7:00 AM: Morning Game Drive. Explore different tracks, perhaps toward the Mweya Peninsula or the Channel area, for a chance to see nocturnal animals returning to rest and active predators.
· 10:30 AM: Return to the lodge for a short refreshment break.
· 12:00 PM: Transfer to the Mweya Jetty.
· 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM: Highlight - Kazinga Channel Boat Safari. This two-hour launch trip offers unparalleled wildlife viewing: hundreds of hippos, basking crocodiles, elephants, buffalo, and an astounding variety of birds at close range. Your guide and boat captain will provide expert commentary.
· 3:30 PM: Optional Activity Choice:
· Option A: Katwe Explosion Craters Drive: A breathtaking scenic drive along the rim of extinct volcanic craters, some filled with deep lakes, with panoramic views.
· Option B: Lodge Relaxation: Enjoy the lodge's pool and views, or take a guided nature walk.
· 7:00 PM: Farewell Dinner at the lodge. Share stories and highlights of your safari.
· Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3: Apes in the Gorge & Journey Home

· 6:30 AM: Breakfast and check-out from the lodge.
· 7:30 AM: Choose Your Morning Adventure:
· Option 1: Kyambura Gorge Chimpanzee Trekking (Requires pre-booked permit - $80-100 per person): Descend into the "Valley of Apes" for a 2-3 hour trek to track habituated chimps in this dramatic rainforest gorge. An unforgettable primate experience.
· Option 2: Birding & Nature Walk around the lodge area with your guide.
· Option 3: Cultural Visit to the Katwe Salt Lake community project to learn about traditional salt mining (small fee applies).
· 11:00 AM: Begin the return journey to Kampala/Entebbe.
· 1:00 PM: Stop for lunch at a restaurant en-route.
· 5:30 - 6:30 PM: Arrival and drop-off at your hotel or Entebbe International Airport (for evening flights).


Tour Inclusions & Exclusions

✅ INCLUDED:

· All park entry fees and government taxes.
· All game drives and the Kazinga Channel boat safari fee.
· 2 nights' accommodation in a mid-range lodge.
· Meals as specified in the itinerary (2 Breakfasts, 3 Lunches, 2 Dinners).
· Full-time services of a professional English-speaking driver/guide.
· Ground transport in a 4x4 safari vehicle with a pop-up roof.
· Bottled drinking water in the vehicle.
· A special Journey Junction gift from your guide.

Ready to tour QEBH? Book your tour with Journey Junction Tours and Travel

🌿 Where Adventure Meets Diversity