If you’re planning a Uganda safari, few destinations offer the diversity and accessibility of Queen Elizabeth National Park. From tree-climbing lions in Ishasha to chimpanzee tracking in Kyambura and boat cruises along the Kazinga Channel, the park is ideal for first-time visitors and wildlife lovers alike.
In this travel guide, we’ll break down the best Queen Elizabeth National Park tours, how to choose the right itinerary, and why Queen Elizabeth Gorge Cottages is the perfect base for your adventures.
Types of Tours Available in Queen Elizabeth Park
Whether you have one day or a full week, there’s a tour for every schedule and interest:
Classic Game Drive Safari
Where: Kasenyi Plains, Ishasha Sector, and Mweya Peninsula
What you’ll see: Lions, elephants, buffaloes, warthogs, waterbucks
Best time: Early mornings or late afternoons
Kazinga Channel Boat Safari
What you’ll see: Hippos, crocodiles, elephants, birds
Duration: 2 hours
Perfect for: Photographers and birders
Chimpanzee Tracking (Kyambura Gorge)
What to expect: Guided hike into the “Valley of Apes”
Permit required: Yes ($50 per person)
Fitness level: Moderate
Nature Walks and Community Tours
- Where: Maramagambo Forest, crater lakes, local villages
- Highlights: Birds, primates, culture, and scenic views
Each tour is different combining them offers a full-spectrum Queen Elizabeth experience.
Top Tour Itineraries to Consider
Here are a few sample itineraries depending on how long you plan to stay:
1-Day Safari
- Morning: Game drive in Kasenyi
- Afternoon: Kazinga Channel boat cruise
- Evening: Return to Queen Elizabeth Gorge Cottages for dinner
2-Day Safari
- Day 1: Kyambura Gorge chimp trekking + crater lake tour
- Day 2: Game drive in Ishasha for tree-climbing lions + packed lunch safari
3–5 Day Full Safari
- Day 1: Arrival and park introduction
- Day 2: Game drive + boat cruise
- Day 3: Kyambura trekking
- Day 4: Ishasha Sector visit
- Day 5: Community or crater lake tour + departure
We’ll help you customize your tour right from Queen Elizabeth Gorge Cottages.
Best Time to Take a Safari Tour
The park is open year-round, but some months offer optimal conditions.
- June–September & December–February: Dry season = best wildlife visibility
- March–May & October–November: Lush scenery, fewer tourists, and ideal for birdwatchers
Refer to our Best Time to Visit Queen Elizabeth Park Uganda guide for full weather and activity breakdowns.
Why Stay at Queen Elizabeth Gorge Cottages?
As your base camp for Queen Elizabeth Park, we offer:
- Proximity to Kyambura, Mweya, and easy access to Ishasha
- Help with tour bookings, transport, and permits
- Local meals, eco-accommodation, and spectacular views
- Warm hospitality and staff who know the park inside out
You don’t need a tour company when you’ve got hosts who live next to the wilderness.
Travel Tips for Booking Safari Tours
Book chimp permits early , limited slots per day
Use 4WD vehicles for game drives and Ishasha access
Bring extra batteries and SD cards for your camera
Pack for both sun and sudden rain
Request a guide who knows birding or photography, if those are your interests
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Do I need a guide for the park?
A: Yes, guides are highly recommended for game drives and required for chimps and night safaris.
Q: Can I combine Queen Elizabeth Park with gorilla trekking?
A: Absolutely. It’s often paired with Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, just 3–4 hours away.
Q: Are tours safe?
A: Yes. UWA-certified guides and experienced locals make tours safe and well-managed.
Ready to Book Your Safari?
From hippo-filled boat safaris to lion-spotting drives and lush chimp forests, Queen Elizabeth National Park offers more than just wildlife , it offers wild experiences. And Queen Elizabeth Gorge Cottages is the perfect starting point.
Let us help you plan the best Queen Elizabeth Park tour tailored to your time, interests, and budget.
