How to Plan Your Queen Elizabeth National Park 2-Day Safari with Boat Cruise in Kampala

If you’re looking for an immersive African safari experience, Queen Elizabeth National Park is the perfect destination for you. This expansive park is located in southwest Uganda and is home to an abundance of wildlife, including buffalos, elephants, lions, and more. In this blog post, we’ll give you a step-by-step guide on how to plan your 2-day safari with a boat cruise in Queen Elizabeth National Park while staying in Kampala. This tour includes an overnight stay in a picturesque safari lodge, transportation, meals, and an expert guide to ensure that you have a hassle-free experience.

Day 1: Kampala to Queen Elizabeth National Park

The tour starts with a 5-6 hour drive from Kampala to Queen Elizabeth National Park. After being picked up from your accommodation in Kampala, you’ll receive a hearty breakfast to kickstart your day. On the way to the park, you’ll stop at the Kazinga Channel for a rest stop. Upon arrival at the park, you’ll embark on a scenic boat cruise along the Kazinga channel to spot buffalos, hippopotamus, elephants, and other wildlife. From the boat, you’ll also have stunning views of the rolling grasslands and plains of Kasenyi, where lions usually prey upon their targets. After the boat cruise, you’ll enjoy dinner and an overnight stay at your choice of Bush lodge or Engiri Game Lodge.

Day 2: Queen Elizabeth National Park to Kampala

Wake up early on day two with a tasty breakfast and begin your African adventure with a morning game drive through Kasenyi. The savannas of the park are a sight to behold, with giraffes roaming around and antelopes grazing in the grasslands. With the help of your expert guide, you’ll spot the lions, elephants, buffalos, and other animals that call the park their home. After the game drive, you’ll head back to Kampala with a stopover at the Equator for a quick visit, photos, and some souvenirs. Arrive back in Kampala at around 7 PM, marking the end of your amazing two-day Queen Elizabeth National Park tour.

Highlights

• Enjoy an overnight stay in a picturesque safari lodge
• Discover Queen Elizabeth National Park’s vast array of flora and fauna
• Explore Uganda’s vast rolling grasslands and scenic savannas
• Enjoy a hassle-free overnight trip with accommodation and meals included

What to Bring

• Comfortable clothing and comfortable walking shoes.
• Sunhat, sunscreen, and sunglasses
• Binoculars, camera, and extra batteries
• Insect repellent

Book Your Tour Now

This Queen Elizabeth National Park 2-day safari with a boat cruise is the perfect opportunity to experience the beauty and wonder of the African savannas. With an overnight stay in a picturesque lodge, wildlife spotting, and a hassle-free journey, you can simply sit back, relax and enjoy the breathtaking views around. Book your tour here for the ultimate African safari adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions About Kampala

Kampala is the capital city of Uganda and one of the largest cities in East Africa. It is located in the central region of Uganda and has a population of over 2.5 million people. Kampala is a vibrant city with a lot of history, culture and attractions. Here are some frequently asked questions about Kampala:

1. What is the best time of year to visit Kampala?

The best time to visit Kampala is during the dry season, which runs from June to September and December to February. During these months, the weather is mild and dry with little to no rain. The wet season, which runs from March to May and October to November, can be quite humid and rainy, making it difficult to get around the city.

2. What are some of the popular tourist attractions in Kampala?

Kampala is home to many popular tourist attractions, including:

• The Uganda Museum – showcasing Uganda’s cultural heritage and history
• The Kasubi Tombs – the burial grounds of the Kings of Buganda
• The Uganda Martyrs Shrine – a religious site commemorating the lives of Uganda’s Christian Martyrs
• The Kampala Central Mosque – one of the largest mosques in East Africa
• The Ndere Cultural Centre – showcasing Uganda’s diverse cultural traditions through music, dance and drama performances
• The National Theatre – hosting a range of cultural performances, including music, dance and drama

3. How do I get around Kampala?

The most common way to get around Kampala is by taxi, either by the traditional blue and white taxis or the newer ride-sharing services like Uber and Taxify. Boda-bodas (motorcycle taxis) are also a popular mode of transportation, but safety can be a concern. Kampala also has a developing public bus system.

4. What is the local currency, and where can I exchange money?

The local currency in Kampala is the Ugandan Shilling (UGX). Money exchange bureaus can be found in most parts of the city, and major credit cards are accepted at most hotels and restaurants.

5. What dishes should I try in Kampala?

Ugandan cuisine is diverse and delicious. Some of the popular dishes to try in Kampala include:

• Matooke – a dish made from mashed green bananas
• Ugali – a dish made from maize flour and water, similar to polenta
• Chapatti – a type of flatbread
• Rolex – a popular snack consisting of an omelette rolled in a chapatti
• Matoke stew – a delicious beef or chicken stew served with matooke
• Luwombo – a traditional dish made from steamed meat, vegetables and spices wrapped in banana leaves

6. What are some safety concerns to keep in mind while visiting Kampala?

As with any city, it is important to take precautions to ensure your safety while visiting Kampala. Some tips to keep in mind include:

• Avoid walking alone at night, especially in poorly lit areas
• Keep your valuables out of sight and avoid wearing flashy jewelry or accessories
• Be cautious of pickpockets and bag snatchers
• Only use registered taxis or ride-sharing services
• Be aware of your surroundings and trust your instincts

7. What is the weather like in Kampala?

Kampala has a tropical climate, which means it is warm and humid year-round. The average daytime temperature is around 25-30°C (77-86°F), and the humidity can be quite high. The city experiences two rainy seasons, from March to May and October to November, with the heaviest rainfalls usually occurring in April.

8. What are some popular day trips from Kampala?

Kampala is a great base for exploring the surrounding areas, and there are many popular day trip destinations within a few hours’ drive. Some of these include:

• Jinja – a town located on the shores of Lake Victoria and the source of the Nile River
• Murchison Falls National Park – home to stunning waterfalls and a variety of wildlife, including elephants, lions and hippos
• Lake Mburo National Park – a small but beautiful park home to zebras, impalas and other wildlife
• Entebbe – a town located on the shores of Lake Victoria and home to the Entebbe Botanical Gardens and the Uganda Wildlife Education Centre

9. What is the nightlife like in Kampala?

Kampala has a lively nightlife scene, with many bars, nightclubs and restaurants scattered throughout the city. Some of the popular areas for nightlife include Kololo and Kabalagala, where you will find a range of venues catering to different tastes and budgets. It is important to exercise caution and be mindful of your surroundings while enjoying the nightlife in Kampala.

10. What is the culture like in Kampala?

Kampala is a melting pot of different cultures, with over 50 different ethnic groups making up the population. The Baganda people are the largest ethnic group and have a rich cultural heritage that can be seen in the city’s traditions, music and dance. Religion also plays an important role in Kampala, and you will find a mix of Christianity, Islam and traditional African religions practiced throughout the city.

How to Spend your Time as a Tourist in Kampala

Kampala is the capital city of Uganda and a popular destination for tourists. The city is known for its vibrant culture, exotic wildlife, and beautiful landscapes. There are many things to see and do in Kampala for tourists, and in this guide, we will explore some of the best activities to make the most of your time in this beautiful city.

1. Visit the Ndere Cultural Center

The Ndere Cultural Center is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Kampala. This center showcases the diverse culture and traditions of Uganda through live performances and exhibitions. Visitors can enjoy traditional music, dance, and theater performances and learn about the history and culture of Uganda. The center also has an art gallery that features works by local artists.

2. Explore the Uganda Museum

The Uganda Museum is another great place to learn about the country’s history and culture. The museum has a collection of artifacts, exhibits, and displays that showcase the cultural heritage of Uganda. Visitors can see traditional musical instruments, art, costumes, and tools used by different tribes in Uganda. The museum also has a botanical garden and a wildlife exhibit.

3. Visit the Kasubi Tombs

The Kasubi Tombs are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-visit attraction in Kampala. These tombs are the burial site of four Buganda kings and are considered to be the most significant spiritual and cultural site for the Baganda people. Visitors can learn about the history of the kings and the Baganda people and see the unique architecture of the tombs.

4. Go on a Wildlife Safari

Uganda is home to some of the most exotic wildlife in Africa, and a wildlife safari is a must-do activity for any tourist in Kampala. Visitors can go on a safari to see animals like lions, elephants, zebras, giraffes, and more. The best places for a wildlife safari in Uganda are Murchison Falls National Park, Queen Elizabeth National Park, and Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

5. Visit the Uganda Martyrs Shrine

The Uganda Martyrs Shrine is a popular pilgrimage site and a significant religious site in Uganda. This site is dedicated to the 22 Catholic and Protestant martyrs who were killed for their faith in the late 1800s. Visitors can explore the shrine and learn about the history and significance of the site.

6. Explore the Kampala Art Trail

The Kampala Art Trail is a unique experience for art lovers. This trail takes visitors through some of the best art galleries, studios, and exhibitions in the city. Visitors can see works by local artists and learn about the contemporary art scene in Uganda. Some of the popular art galleries on the trail are Afriart Gallery, Makerere Art Gallery, and Banana Hill Art Gallery.

7. Enjoy the Nightlife in Kampala

Kampala is known for its vibrant nightlife scene, and there are many places to enjoy music, drinks, and dancing in the city. Visitors can choose from a variety of venues, including bars, nightclubs, and live music venues. Some of the popular nightlife spots in Kampala are Silk Liquid Lounge, Cayenne Restaurant, and Club Amnesia.

Book Your Tour Now

Kampala is a beautiful and diverse city with many attractions and activities for tourists. From cultural centers to wildlife safaris, there is something for everyone in Kampala. By following this guide, tourists can make the most of their time in the city and explore the unique culture and history of Uganda. So, pack your bags and get ready for an exciting adventure in Kampala!