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
Your safari begins with a pickup from your accommodation in Entebbe or Kampala. Embark on a scenic drive northwest towards Murchison Falls National Park, passing through rural Uganda with opportunities to observe local life and landscapes. Arrive at the park and check into your lodge, situated amidst the natural beauty of the park.
Start your day with an early morning game drive across the savannah plains of Murchison Falls National Park. Led by knowledgeable guides, spot a myriad of wildlife including elephants, giraffes, buffaloes, lions, and numerous antelope species. The park is also renowned for its birdlife, making it a paradise for birdwatchers.
In the afternoon, embark on a boat safari along the Victoria Nile to the base of Murchison Falls. Marvel at the powerful rush of water as the Nile squeezes through a narrow gorge, creating a breathtaking spectacle. Along the riverbanks, observe hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species in their natural habitat.
After breakfast, visit the top of Murchison Falls for spectacular views of the Nile River cascading through the rocky terrain. Take in the panoramic scenery and capture memorable photos before departing for Queen Elizabeth National Park. Enjoy a scenic drive through the Albertine Rift Valley, arriving at your lodge in Queen Elizabeth National Park by late afternoon.
Begin your day with an exhilarating chimpanzee trekking experience in the lush Kyambura Gorge. Traverse dense forests guided by experienced trackers, seeking out these fascinating primates and observing their natural behaviors in their natural habitat.
In the afternoon, embark on a guided nature walk to explore the diverse ecosystems of Queen Elizabeth National Park. Discover crater lakes, savannah plains, and forests teeming with wildlife. Your guide will provide insights into the park's biodiversity and conservation efforts, enhancing your understanding of Uganda’s natural heritage.
Start the day with an early morning game drive in Queen Elizabeth National Park, known for its diverse landscapes and abundant wildlife. Explore the Kasenyi plains and Ishasha sector, home to tree-climbing lions. Spot herds of elephants, buffaloes, Uganda kobs, and more as they roam the savannah.
Later in the day, enjoy a leisurely boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel, a natural waterway that connects Lake George and Lake Edward. Admire the scenic views and wildlife along the shores, including hippos, crocodiles, and an array of bird species such as kingfishers, eagles, and pelicans.
Before departing, engage in a meaningful community visit near Queen Elizabeth National Park. Interact with local communities, learn about their traditions, and support sustainable tourism initiatives. Gain insights into their daily lives and cultural practices, fostering a deeper connection to Uganda’s rich cultural heritage.
Afterwards, embark on the journey back to Entebbe for your departure flight, reminiscing about your unforgettable Uganda safari experience filled with wildlife encounters, scenic landscapes, and cultural immersion
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.
