4 Days Kibale and Queen Elizabeth National Park Safari

This 4-day safari offers an exciting journey through two of Uganda’s premier national parks: Kibale National Park and Queen Elizabeth National Park. This adventure takes you from the dense, primate-filled forests of Kibale to the diverse savannah landscapes of Queen Elizabeth, delivering an incredible mix of chimpanzee trekking, wildlife viewing, and breathtaking scenery. Designed for nature lovers and adventure seekers, this compact safari provides an unforgettable experience in Uganda’s rich wilderness.

Day 1: Arrival in Entebbe and Transfer to Kibale National Park

Your adventure begins upon arrival in Entebbe, where you’ll be warmly welcomed by your guide. After a brief orientation, you’ll embark on a scenic drive to Kibale National Park, located in western Uganda. Along the way, you’ll pass through picturesque countryside, rolling tea plantations, and lush forests, offering a glimpse of the country’s stunning landscapes.

Upon reaching Kibale, you’ll check into your lodge, conveniently situated on the park’s edge. The rest of the evening is yours to relax, soak in the tranquil surroundings, and prepare for the thrilling chimpanzee trekking experience the following day.

Day 2: Chimpanzee Trekking in Kibale National Park

The second day is dedicated to an exhilarating chimpanzee trekking adventure in Kibale National Park, known as the “primate capital of the world.” After an early breakfast, you’ll head to the park headquarters for a briefing by experienced rangers who will provide insights into the trek and the chimpanzees’ behavior.

Kibale is home to Uganda’s largest population of chimpanzees, along with 12 other primate species, including red-tailed monkeys, black-and-white colobus monkeys, and L’Hoest’s monkeys. Your trek will lead you deep into the tropical rainforest, where you’ll track the chimpanzees by following their calls and movements. Observing these intelligent and social creatures in their natural habitat is a truly remarkable experience, as they interact, forage, and play amongst themselves.

After spending an hour with the chimpanzees, you’ll return to the lodge for lunch. In the afternoon, you may opt for a guided nature walk in the Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, a prime location for birdwatching and spotting other wildlife. This sanctuary is known for its rich biodiversity and scenic beauty, making it a wonderful complement to your morning trek.

Day 3: Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park and Game Drive

On the third day, you’ll depart Kibale and travel to Queen Elizabeth National Park, one of Uganda’s most renowned wildlife destinations. The journey offers spectacular views of western Uganda’s landscapes, including the Rwenzori Mountains’ foothills.

Upon arrival, you’ll check into your lodge before setting off on an evening game drive in the park’s northern region. Queen Elizabeth National Park boasts diverse ecosystems, ranging from savannah plains to wetlands and tropical forests, supporting a wide variety of wildlife. During the drive, you may encounter elephants, buffalo, antelopes, and, with luck, leopards. The park is also home to the famous tree-climbing lions of the Ishasha sector, which can often be seen resting in fig trees.

As the sun sets over the African savannah, you’ll return to your lodge for dinner, surrounded by the sounds of the wild.

Day 4: Morning Game Drive and Boat Safari on the Kazinga Channel

Your final day begins with an early morning game drive, an ideal time to witness predators like lions and hyenas when they are most active. The drive takes you through various habitats where you can spot Uganda kobs, warthogs, waterbucks, and other fascinating wildlife.

After the game drive, you’ll return to the lodge for breakfast before heading to the Kazinga Channel for a boat safari. This natural waterway connects Lake George and Lake Edward and is renowned for its dense population of hippos and crocodiles. The boat cruise provides an up-close view of elephants, buffaloes, and an array of bird species as they gather at the water’s edge.

Following the boat safari, you’ll have lunch before beginning your return journey to Entebbe. Depending on your flight schedule, you may stop at the equator for a quick photo opportunity and souvenir shopping.

This 4-day Kibale and Queen Elizabeth National Park Safari is a well-rounded adventure that showcases some of Uganda’s most remarkable wildlife and landscapes. From the enchanting chimpanzee encounters in Kibale to the diverse wildlife experiences in Queen Elizabeth, this tour blends excitement, relaxation, and discovery. Perfect for travelers with limited time, this safari promises lasting memories of Uganda’s extraordinary natural beauty and wildlife.