10 Days Queen Elizabeth National Park Safari Itinerary

Explore a 10-day Queen Elizabeth National Park safari itinerary with Mandrill African Safaris. Discover wildlife, boat cruises, chimp trekking, and unforgettable Uganda safari experiences.

A Complete Uganda Safari Guide by Mandrill African Safaris

If you’re dreaming of an unforgettable African adventure, a 10-day safari in Queen Elizabeth National Park is one of the best ways to experience Uganda’s diverse wildlife, breathtaking landscapes, and rich culture. Known for its incredible biodiversity, this iconic park offers everything from classic game drives to boat safaris and chimpanzee trekking.

This carefully crafted itinerary by Mandrill African Safaris ensures you experience the very best of Uganda’s wildlife while enjoying comfort, adventure, and authentic encounters.

Why Choose Queen Elizabeth National Park?

Located in western Uganda, Queen Elizabeth National Park is the country’s most visited safari destination. It boasts:

• Over 95 mammal species
• More than 600 bird species
• Diverse ecosystems (savannah, wetlands, forests, crater lakes)
• Unique attractions like tree-climbing lions in Ishasha Sector

It’s the perfect destination for both first-time and seasoned safari travelers.

Day 1: Arrival in Entebbe – Welcome to Uganda

Your journey begins in Entebbe, where you’ll be welcomed by a Mandrill African Safaris guide.

• Airport pickup and hotel transfer
• Safari briefing
• Relax and prepare for the adventure

Overnight: Entebbe/Kampala

Day 2: Transfer to Queen Elizabeth National Park

Travel from Kampala to Queen Elizabeth National Park.

Highlights along the way:

• Equator stop for photos
• Scenic countryside views
• Tea plantations

Arrive in the park and enjoy a short evening game drive.

Overnight: Lodge in Kasenyi or Mweya area

Day 3: Morning Game Drive – Kasenyi Plains

Start your day early with a game drive in the famous Kasenyi Plains, known for predator sightings.

Wildlife to expect:

• Lions
• Elephants
• Uganda kobs
• Buffaloes
• Hyenas

This is one of the best areas in Uganda for spotting big cats in action.

Overnight: Same lodge

Day 4: Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise

One of the highlights of this safari is the boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel.

Expect close encounters with:

• Hippos (in large numbers)
• Nile crocodiles
• Elephants along the shores
• Numerous bird species

This experience offers unmatched wildlife photography opportunities.

Overnight: Same lodge

Day 5: Chimpanzee Trekking in Kyambura Gorge

Head to Kyambura Gorge, also known as the “Valley of Apes.”

Experience:

• Guided chimpanzee tracking
• Forest walk in a dramatic gorge
• Birdwatching opportunities

Chimpanzee trekking here is both thrilling and intimate.

Overnight: Same lodge

Day 6: Transfer to Ishasha Sector – Tree-Climbing Lions

Travel to the remote Ishasha Sector.

This area is famous for:

• Tree-climbing lions resting in fig trees
• Vast savannah landscapes
• Fewer crowds and exclusive safari feel

Enjoy an afternoon game drive.

Overnight: Ishasha lodge or camp

Day 7: Full-Day Game Drive in Ishasha

Spend the day exploring Ishasha’s wilderness.

Highlights:

• Search for tree-climbing lions
• Spot topis and buffaloes
• Birdwatching along the Ishasha River

This is a photographer’s paradise with raw, untouched landscapes.

Overnight: Same lodge

Day 8: Crater Lakes & Scenic Exploration

Return to the northern sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park and explore:

• Explosion crater lakes
• Panoramic viewpoints
• Local communities

These scenic drives offer a different perspective of the park’s beauty.

Overnight: Lodge in Mweya/Kasenyi

Day 9: Optional Activities & Relaxation

Choose from optional activities:

• Nature walks
• Cultural visits
• Birdwatching tours
• Leisure time at the lodge

This flexible day allows you to customize your safari experience.

Overnight: Same lodge

Day 10: Return to Kampala/Entebbe

After breakfast, begin your journey back to Kampala or Entebbe.

• Stop for souvenirs
• Lunch en route
• Airport drop-off

Your unforgettable Uganda safari comes to an end.

What Makes This 10-Day Safari Special?

1. Diverse Wildlife Experiences

From savannah game drives to forest trekking, this itinerary offers a complete safari experience.

2. Unique Attractions

• Tree-climbing lions in Ishasha
• Boat cruise on Kazinga Channel
• Chimpanzees in Kyambura Gorge

3. Balanced Pace

Unlike rushed tours, this 10-day itinerary allows time to fully explore and relax.

Best Time to Visit Queen Elizabeth National Park

The park is open year-round, but the best times are:

• Dry Seasons: June–August, December–February
• Ideal for wildlife viewing and game drives

Accommodation Options

Mandrill African Safaris offers a range of options:

Luxury

• Mweya Safari Lodge
• Kyambura Gorge Lodge

Mid-range

• Enganzi Lodge
• Twin Lakes Safari Lodge

Budget

• Bush lodges and campsites

What to Pack for Your Safari

• Lightweight clothing
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Binoculars
• Camera
• Sunscreen and hat
• Insect repellent

FAQs About Queen Elizabeth National Park Safari

1. Is Queen Elizabeth National Park safe?

Yes, Uganda is one of the safest safari destinations in Africa, and the park is well-managed.

2. How much does a 10-day safari cost?

Costs vary depending on accommodation level, ranging from budget to luxury packages.

3. Can I combine this safari with gorilla trekking?

Absolutely! You can extend your trip to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park for gorilla trekking.

4. What animals will I see?

Expect lions, elephants, buffaloes, hippos, crocodiles, antelopes, and chimpanzees.

5. Is the safari suitable for families?

Yes, this itinerary can be customized for families with children.

Final Thoughts

A 10-day safari in Queen Elizabeth National Park is the perfect way to immerse yourself in Uganda’s natural beauty and wildlife diversity. Whether it’s watching lions hunt on the plains, cruising past hippos on the Kazinga Channel, or trekking chimpanzees in Kyambura Gorge, every moment is unforgettable.

With Mandrill African Safaris, you’re guaranteed a professionally guided, personalized, and enriching safari experience.

Ready to Plan Your Uganda Safari?

Let Mandrill African Safaris craft your dream adventure today. This 10-day itinerary is more than just a trip—it’s a journey into the heart of Africa.