Fly-in Safari to Queen Elizabeth National Park

Fly-in Safari to Queen Elizabeth National Park

Fly-in Safari to Queen Elizabeth National Park — If you’re looking for a convenient and unforgettable way to explore Uganda’s renowned Queen Elizabeth National Park, a fly-in safari offers a seamless experience! Nestled in southwestern Uganda, close to the Rwenzori Mountains and Kibale Forest, Queen Elizabeth National Park is an essential stop for any wildlife enthusiast. Known as one of East Africa’s premier destinations for wildlife viewing, the park is home to the iconic Big Four (elephants, lions, buffalos, and leopards) and boasts over 600 bird species. From game drives across scenic savannahs to tranquil boat cruises on the Kazinga Channel, a fly-in safari to Queen Elizabeth offers unbeatable scenery, wildlife encounters, and unique activities.

Highlights of Queen Elizabeth National Park

Queen Elizabeth National Park has a range of activities to make your visit extraordinary. If time permits, consider extending your stay to visit the Ishasha sector in the southern part of the park, famous for its tree-climbing lions and rich biodiversity. Here’s a quick look at the top things to do:

What to See and Do in Queen Elizabeth National Park

Game Drives in the Kansenyi Plains and Mweya Sector

The Kansenyi Plains and Mweya Sector offer some of the best game drive experiences, with sweeping views of the savannah, crater lakes, and distant mountain ranges. These areas are ideal for spotting large herds of elephants, buffalos, antelopes, and leopards against a breathtaking landscape.

Game Drives in Ishasha Sector

The Ishasha sector, located in the park’s southern part, is a must-visit for those intrigued by the rare tree-climbing lions. These lions rest high in fig trees, creating a memorable and unique photo opportunity that is hard to find elsewhere.

Boat Cruise on the Kazinga Channel

One of the park’s most popular activities, a boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel, offers unparalleled views of wildlife along the water’s edge. Spot hippos, crocodiles, elephants, and buffalos as they gather to drink. The channel is also a birder’s paradise, with a large variety of local and migratory birds gracing the shores. The boat ride provides an exceptional perspective of the Mweya Peninsula and the fishing villages that line the channel.

Cultural Tours

Enhance your safari experience with a cultural tour, visiting local communities near the park. At Lake Katwe, learn how local residents harvest salt, showcasing how communities benefit from and coexist with park resources. For an even deeper experience, the Kasoga Community Experience project offers a glimpse into daily life, traditional dances, and the challenges of living alongside wildlife.

Chimpanzee Tracking in Kyambura Gorge

Discover another side of the park with a chimpanzee tracking experience in the stunning Kyambura Gorge. Trek through lush forests and spot chimpanzees in their natural habitat. This activity is available in both morning and afternoon slots, and we can assist with organizing permits and arranging your itinerary to fit this unforgettable trek into your schedule.

Birding in Queen Elizabeth National Park

If you’re a bird enthusiast, Queen Elizabeth National Park is a must-visit destination in Uganda, boasting over 600 bird species. This diverse ecosystem includes Albertine Rift endemics, waterbirds, and savannah species. You’ll have the best chances of spotting these incredible birds during a boat ride on the Kazinga Channel or while on game drives through the park. Some notable species you might see include the Collared Pratincole, Palm-nut Vulture, Pel’s Fishing Owl, the rare Swamp Flycatcher, the Gray Crowned Crane (Uganda’s national bird), the Giant Kingfisher, Shoebill Stork, and many more.

Airlines Flying to Queen Elizabeth National Park

For travelers looking to reach Queen Elizabeth National Park by air, several airlines operate daily flights. AeroLink Uganda and Fly Uganda offer scheduled flights from Entebbe International Airport or Kajansi Airfield to Kasese Airstrip, where your journey to the park will begin. The drive from Kasese to your lodge in Queen Elizabeth National Park takes about 30 minutes, depending on your accommodation.

When planning your trip, you can fly into one of several airstrips: Kasese/Mweya, Mbarara, or Kihihi. The best option for a shorter drive to the park is Kasese/Mweya Airstrip, so be sure to request this when booking your flight. It’s also advisable to arrange your transfer to the lodge in advance to avoid any delays upon arrival.

Flight Duration from Entebbe to Queen Elizabeth National Park

The flight from Entebbe to Kasese/Mweya Airstrip takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes. After landing, you will connect to your lodge with a road transfer that takes around 10 to 30 minutes, depending on your chosen accommodation. In total, your journey from Entebbe to Queen Elizabeth National Park will be about 1 hour and 45 minutes.

AeroLink operates three daily flights to Kasese/Mweya Airstrip:

• Morning Flight: Departs Entebbe at 7:00 AM, arriving at Kasese at 8:15 AM. The return flight leaves at 8:30 AM, arriving back in Entebbe at 9:45 AM.
• Mid-Morning Flight: Departs Entebbe at 10:15 AM, arriving at Kasese at 12:05 PM. The return flight leaves at 12:20 PM, arriving in Entebbe at 1:30 PM (Note: This flight is not available during April, May, and November).
• Afternoon Flight: Departs Entebbe at 12:00 PM, arriving at Kasese at 1:15 PM. The return flight leaves at 1:30 PM, arriving back in Entebbe at 3:00 PM.

Accommodation Options in Queen Elizabeth National Park

When planning your fly-in safari, it’s advisable to spend a night in Entebbe or Kampala before your trip starts and at the end of your safari. This precaution helps ensure you catch your flights and reduces the risk of missing connections due to travel delays.

Queen Elizabeth National Park offers a range of accommodations, from budget to luxury:

• Budget Options: Pumba Safari Lodge, Elephant Hab Lodge ($90-$100 per night per person).
• Mid-Range Options: Buffalo Safari Lodge, Bush Lodge ($100-$200 per night per person).
• Luxury Options: Kyambura Gorge Lodge, Mazike Safari Lodge, Katara Lodge, Mweya Safari Lodge ($200-$400 per night per person).

Best Time to Visit Queen Elizabeth National Park

The ideal time to visit Queen Elizabeth National Park is during the dry seasons, from June to September and December to February. While the park can be enjoyed year-round, dry seasons typically offer better wildlife sightings than the wet seasons.

Why Book Your Fly-in Safari with Trek Africa Expeditions

Trek Africa Expeditions is here to assist you in planning your fly-in safari to Queen Elizabeth National Park. We offer personalized booking support and a range of safari packages to suit your needs. Check out our TripAdvisor reviews to see what our satisfied clients have to say about their experiences with us. Our dedicated team is committed to providing excellent service and ensuring your Uganda safari holiday is memorable. Feel free to reach out with any questions—let us help you create an unforgettable safari experience!