Overview
Embark on an unforgettable 6-day adventure through Uganda with Cymo African Safaris, beginning with a scenic drive from Entebbe or Kampala to Murchison Falls National Park. Delve into the park’s rich biodiversity through morning game drives spotting elephants, lions, and giraffes, followed by an afternoon boat cruise along the Victoria Nile, offering views of hippos and crocodiles.
The journey continues on Day 3 with a visit to the top of Murchison Falls, showcasing the Nile River’s dramatic descent through rocky terrain, before traveling to Queen Elizabeth National Park. Day 4 presents an exciting chimpanzee trekking experience in Kyambura Gorge, followed by an afternoon nature walk to encounter various bird species and other wildlife.
Day 5 unfolds with an early morning game drive in Queen Elizabeth National Park, renowned for its tree-climbing lions and diverse ecosystems. An afternoon boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel offers encounters with hippos and abundant birdlife, concluding with a community visit to engage with local traditions and cultural practices on Day 6, before returning to Entebbe for departure.
Trip Highlights
- Murchison Falls National Game drive
- Murchison Falls
- Nile River Boat cruise
- Queen Elizabeth National Game drive
- Kazinga channel Boat cruise
- Community visit
- Chimpanzee Trekking
Itinerary
FAQs on Queen Elizabeth and Murchison Falls National Park Safari tours
– Murchison Falls National Park is home to the Big Five (elephants, lions, leopards, buffaloes, and rhinos in the neighboring Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary), giraffes, hippos, crocodiles, and numerous bird species. Queen Elizabeth National Park offers tree-climbing lions, elephants, buffaloes, hippos, and a variety of antelope species.
– The best time to visit is during the dry seasons from December to February and June to September, when wildlife congregates around water sources, making it easier to spot them during game drives and boat cruises.
– Both parks are accessible by road from Entebbe or Kampala, with journey times ranging from 5 to 7 hours depending on road conditions and stops. Alternatively, domestic flights are available to airstrips near the parks.
– Activities include game drives, boat safaris along the Nile River and Kazinga Channel, chimpanzee trekking in Kyambura Gorge, nature walks, birdwatching, and cultural visits to local communities.
– Yes, a gorilla trekking permit is required and should be obtained well in advance due to limited availability. Permits can be arranged through licensed tour operators or Uganda Wildlife Authority.
– Safari packages typically include transportation, accommodation (lodges or camps), meals, guided activities (game drives, boat cruises, trekking), park fees, and sometimes domestic flights or transfers.
– Yes, both parks are safe for tourists. They have well-established tourism infrastructure and experienced guides who ensure visitor safety during activities. It is advisable to follow the instructions of guides and avoid approaching wildlife closely.
– Essentials include lightweight clothing in neutral colors, sturdy walking shoes, a wide-brimmed hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, binoculars, a camera with extra batteries, and any personal medications. Packing light is recommended due to luggage restrictions on internal flights.
– Yes, it’s common to combine visits to both parks in a single itinerary, usually spanning 5 to 7 days. This allows visitors to experience a variety of landscapes, wildlife, and activities unique to each park.
– Near Murchison Falls National Park, cultural visits may include interactions with the local communities of the Madi and Acholi tribes, where you can learn about traditional customs, music, dance, and craftsmanship. Around Queen Elizabeth National Park, visits to local villages offer insights into the Bakiga and Banyankole cultures, including farming practices and traditional ceremonies.
