Boat Cruise on Kazinga Channel in Queen Elizabeth National Park

Boat Cruise on Kazinga Channel in Queen Elizabeth National Park

Embarking on a boat cruise on Kazinga Channel in Queen Elizabeth National Park is a must-do experience that many travelers consider the highlight of their safari. This scenic cruise offers a unique opportunity to encounter various wildlife, including large hippos lounging in the water and land mammals that come to the shores to drink, feed, and bathe. Visitors consistently rave about the unforgettable and magical experiences they have during the cruise, making it a worthwhile investment during your trip to the park.

Not only does the boat cruise provide a chance to see incredible wildlife, but the fees you pay also contribute to the conservation efforts within Queen Elizabeth National Park. By participating in this activity, you’re supporting the preservation of the park’s diverse ecosystems and habitats, ensuring that these natural wonders are protected for future generations.

The money spent on your boat cruise and park entrance fees also benefits the local communities living near and within Queen Elizabeth National Park. Each year, 20% of the park entrance fees collected from tourists is directed back to these communities. This financial support encourages them to engage in conservation efforts, recognizing the importance of protecting the park’s wildlife. The funds are used for community-led initiatives, including building schools, hospitals, and supporting agricultural practices, ultimately improving the quality of life for residents.

How to Book Your Boat Cruise on Kazinga Channel

Booking a boat cruise on Kazinga Channel is easy! You can reserve your spot in advance through Excursia Adventures, a reliable local tour company, or directly with the Uganda Wildlife Authority. Alternatively, you can book your cruise upon arrival at the park at the pier before boarding the boat. If you miss the scheduled departures of the Uganda Wildlife Authority boats, there are also community-operated boats available for booking on-site.

The cost for the boat cruise is $30 and operates in shifts between 9 AM and 5 PM. Each cruise lasts approximately two hours, starting from a landing site near Mweya Safari Lodge.

Best Time for a Boat Cruise on Kazinga Channel

The best time for a boat cruise on Kazinga Channel is during the dry seasons, which run from June to September and December to February. During these months, wildlife is more commonly spotted along the shores of the channel, making for an enriching safari experience. While Queen Elizabeth National Park can be visited year-round, the dry seasons generally offer the best wildlife sightings compared to the wetter months.

Where to Stay in Queen Elizabeth National Park

Queen Elizabeth National Park offers a variety of accommodations to suit every traveler’s needs and budget, from budget-friendly options to luxurious lodges.

For those looking for budget accommodations, options like Pumba Safari Lodge and Elephant Hab Lodge provide comfortable stays at prices ranging from $90 to $100 per night per person. If you’re seeking a mid-range experience, consider Buffalo Safari Lodge or Bush Lodge, with rates between $100 and $200 per night per person. For a touch of luxury, you can choose from premium lodges such as Kyambura Gorge Lodge, Mazike Safari Lodge, Katara Lodge, and Mweya Safari Lodge, where prices typically range from $200 to $400 per night per person.

How to Get to Queen Elizabeth National Park

By Road

Getting to Queen Elizabeth National Park is straightforward. You can drive via the main routes, such as the Kampala-Mbarara-Bushenyi-Ishaka road, or take the Kampala-Mityana-Mubende-Kyenjojo-Fort Portal-Kasese highway. The park is conveniently located near Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, making it accessible within approximately 4-5 hours to the Buhoma Region and about 6 hours to Rushaga, Nkuringo, and Ruhija Regions.

By Air

If you prefer flying, several domestic airlines, including AeroLink Uganda Limited and Fly Uganda, offer daily scheduled flights to Queen Elizabeth National Park. Flights depart from Entebbe International Airport or Kajjansi Airfield and land at Kasese Airstrip, from which it takes about 30 minutes to reach your lodge, depending on your destination.

When booking your flight, request to land at Kasese/Mweya Airstrip for the quickest transfer to the park. Upon arrival at the airstrip, it’s advisable to arrange your lodge transfer in advance to avoid any hassles.

Why Book Your Boat Cruise on Kazinga Channel with Excursia Adventures?

At Excursia Adventures, we specialize in crafting tailor-made safaris across Uganda, ensuring you have an unforgettable experience. Our dedicated team is known for their responsiveness, typically answering your inquiries within 30 minutes. Our professional tour consultants will assist you in planning your travel itinerary, addressing all your questions, and securing all your bookings in advance to minimize any inconveniences.

With knowledgeable safari guides available to cater to your language preferences, we prioritize your comfort and satisfaction. Choosing us for your boat cruise on Kazinga Channel means you’re investing in a memorable adventure that truly reflects the value of your spending. For more information or to start planning your trip, feel free to contact us!