Game Drive in Queen Elizabeth National Park

Game Drive in Queen Elizabeth National Park

A game drive in Queen Elizabeth National Park is one of the best ways to experience the rich wildlife, including four of the Big Five. The park features two primary areas for game drives: the Kasenyi Plains and the Mweya Plains. The Mweya Plains are particularly abundant with wildlife, showcasing Uganda’s unique Euphorbia or “candelabra” trees. The stunning backdrop of nearby crater lakes and mountain ranges enhances your wildlife viewing adventure.

About Queen Elizabeth National Park

Queen Elizabeth National Park is the most popular national park in Uganda, located in the Kasese district of Western Uganda. Stretching across the western arm of the Great Rift Valley, the park is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including elephants, lions, hippos, buffalo, Uganda kob, baboons, and numerous bird species. With its combination of riverine and savannah habitats, the park also encompasses the southern Ishasha area, known for its tree-climbing lions, and Maramagambo, one of Uganda’s largest remaining natural forests.

Game Drive Experience

Game drives in the Mweya area of Queen Elizabeth National Park typically start early in the morning around 6:00 AM, offering the best chances to spot lions and other wildlife. However, drives can be conducted throughout the day. Our vehicles are equipped with pop-up roofs, providing you with unobstructed views and excellent photo opportunities. Our knowledgeable driver-guides are skilled at helping you identify animals and birds as you traverse the scenic trails, making for a memorable experience.

Why Game Drives are Worth the Investment

The entrance fees for game drives in Queen Elizabeth National Park are more than just a ticket; they represent an investment in your adventure. Not only do you have the chance to witness incredible wildlife, but you also enjoy the breathtaking African wilderness. The funds collected help conserve wildlife and protect their natural habitats, making your experience truly valuable.

Moreover, the revenue generated from game drives and park entrance fees supports local communities surrounding Queen Elizabeth National Park. Approximately 20% of the fees go directly to these communities, fostering conservation awareness and providing essential resources for local development, including schools and healthcare facilities. This ensures that your spending contributes to the well-being of both wildlife and local residents.

Game Drive Costs

Game drives in Queen Elizabeth National Park are available at various times, including morning, afternoon, evening, and night drives. For a comprehensive experience, consider staying multiple days to explore the park fully.

• Day Game Drives:
  • Foreigners: $40 per person per day
  • East African Citizens: UGX 40,000 per person per day
• Night Game Drives:
  • Foreigners: $40 per person per day
  • East Africans: UGX 40,000 per person per day

Additionally, all visitors must pay a park entrance fee of $40 per person for non-residents. Fees can be paid directly to the Uganda Wildlife Authority at the park headquarters or at their head office.

Best Time for a Game Drive in Queen Elizabeth National Park

The ideal time to embark on a game drive in Queen Elizabeth National Park is during the dry season, which spans from June to September and December to February. While the park can be visited year-round, the dry months provide excellent wildlife viewing opportunities, making it easier to spot animals as they gather around water sources. During the wet season, sightings are still possible, but the dry months tend to offer clearer views and more abundant wildlife activity.

Where to Stay on the Mweya Side of Queen Elizabeth National Park

The Mweya area of Queen Elizabeth National Park offers a diverse range of accommodations to suit every budget. Whether you’re looking for luxury or budget-friendly options, you’ll find comfortable and safe lodges for your stay.

For those seeking luxury, consider lodges like Kyambura Gorge Lodge, Katara Lodge, Elephant Plains Lodge, and Mweya Safari Lodge. If you prefer more budget-friendly or mid-range accommodations, options such as Buffalo Safari Lodge, Twin Lakes Lodge, Elephant Hab Lodge, and Park View Lodge are excellent choices.

How to Get to the Mweya Side of Queen Elizabeth National Park

By Flight: The quickest and easiest way to reach the Mweya area is by taking a flight. There are daily flights from Entebbe International Airport or Kajjansi Airfield to Kasese Airstrip or Mweya Airstrip, with a travel time of approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. Once you land, the drive from the airstrip to the park is short and offers scenic views of the surrounding landscape.

By Road: If you prefer a road trip, it takes about 5 hours to drive from Entebbe or Kampala to the Mweya area. While the journey may seem lengthy, it can be an enjoyable experience filled with opportunities to stop and explore along the way. We use 4×4 vehicles for transportation, ensuring comfort and safety on the park’s roads. Our spacious vehicles feature pop-up roofs, allowing for great views and photography during your drive.

Why Book Your Game Drive in Queen Elizabeth National Park with Excursia Adventures?

Excursia Adventures specializes in crafting tailor-made safaris that include unforgettable game drives in Queen Elizabeth National Park. Our dedicated team is committed to providing exceptional service, with all inquiries answered within 30 minutes by our professional tour consultants. We’ll work with you to create a customized travel plan that meets your needs and ensures that all services are booked in advance, so you can relax and enjoy your experience without any hassles.

We also offer knowledgeable safari guides who can assist you in your preferred language, making your adventure both enjoyable and informative. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us for more information or to book your game drive!