You’ll Love These 10 Tours & Things To Do In Queen Elizabeth National Park

Queen Elizabeth National Park is a true highlight for anyone visiting Uganda. It’s not just because of its stunning landscapes or its location straddling the equator, but because of the incredible variety of wildlife and adventure experiences packed into this one park. Whether you’re wild about chimpanzee trekking, eager to see big cats, or fascinated by boat safaris, Queen Elizabeth offers it all.

Personally, I love how the boat cruises along the Kazinga Channel deliver close encounters with hippos, crocodiles, and an array of birdlife—there’s nothing quite like watching elephants quench their thirst just meters away.

For a unique blend of forest trekking and savannah safaris, the trips that combine both give a well-rounded view of Uganda’s wilderness.

If you’re trying to decide which tour to book, here’s a quick overview. The list below covers everything from short day trips to extended safaris, including chimpanzee treks, game drives, and multi-day adventures. Many tours, like the 3-Day Uganda Rwanda Queen Elizabeth NP & Volcanoes NP Trip, highlight chimpanzee trekking in Kalinzu Forest and hiking Mount Bisoke.

Others, like the 3-day Queen Elizabeth national Park with game drive, focus on wildlife diversity and geographical features. Whatever your interest or schedule, this guide will help you find the right adventure.

1. 3-Day Uganda Rwanda Queen Elizabeth NP and Volcanoes NP Trip

At number 1, this 3-Day Uganda Rwanda Queen Elizabeth NP & Volcanoes NP trip offers a well-rounded experience combining Uganda’s wildlife with Rwanda’s mountain gorillas. Starting in Kamwenge, Uganda, this tour is perfect for those who want a mix of big game encounters and chimpanzee trekking.

The journey kicks off with a chimpanzee trek in Kalinzu Forest, where the chance to observe these intelligent primates in their natural habitat is a highlight.

The tour then takes you to Mount Bisoke, with a challenging but rewarding hike up a volcano in Volcanoes National Park—a unique adventure not many get to do.

The finale is a boat cruise on Queen Elizabeth’s Kazinga Channel, where hippos, crocodiles, and waterbirds gather in huge numbers.

What makes this trip stand out is the combination of wildlife, active pursuits, and cultural visits, including a stop at the Gorilla Museum at Ellen Degeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund. It’s a comprehensive package for travelers who want a taste of everything.

The price is $1,450 per person, which reflects the mix of activities and the experience value. Reviews note that guides are knowledgeable, and the itinerary is packed without feeling rushed.

Bottom Line: This tour suits adventurous travelers who want a full immersion in Uganda’s primates, volcanoes, and wildlife, all in one trip.

2. 1 Day Kyambura Gorge Chimpanzee Trek & Queen Elizabeth NP

For those with limited time, the 1 Day Kyambura Gorge Chimpanzee Trek & Queen Elizabeth NP offers a compact but memorable experience. Starting from Kamwenge, this day-long tour includes a morning chimpanzee trek in Kyambura Gorge, a lush, forested area famous for its close encounters with chimpanzees.

After spending time with these primates, the trip continues with a boat trip along the Kazinga Channel, where you’ll see hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species.

Rounding out the day is a game drive in Queen Elizabeth National Park, giving you a chance to spot elephants, lions, and kobs.

What makes this tour special is its efficiency—getting a lot into a single day. The price of $715 per person is competitive given the inclusions. Reviewers highlight that the guides are enthusiastic and that the wildlife sightings are excellent. Keep in mind, the day is full, so good walking shoes and a sense of adventure are necessary.

Bottom Line: This trip is ideal for travelers short on time but eager to see chimpanzees and the park’s wildlife with a well-organized day.

3. 10 Days Uganda Safari Tour & Holiday | Gorilla Trekking

Looking for an extended safari? The 10 Days Uganda Safari Tour & Holiday is perfect if you want to combine gorilla trekking, big game safaris, and boat cruises into one trip.

This comprehensive adventure covers multiple regions, with plenty of primate encounters, including gorillas and chimpanzees, and game viewing of the Big Five. Expect boat cruises on the Nile and Kazinga Channel, offering chances to see hippos, crocodiles, and birdlife.

What sets this tour apart is its depth—covering diverse habitats and giving travelers a broad perspective on Uganda’s wildlife. The itinerary is flexible, and the focus on primates and large mammals makes it suitable for wildlife enthusiasts. Pricing isn’t listed, but considering the extensive activities, it provides excellent value for an immersive experience.

Based on reviews, travelers love the variety of scenery and the chance to see gorillas in their natural habitat, a rare and unforgettable highlight. The trip is best suited for adventure lovers willing to spend several days exploring.

Bottom Line: Perfect for dedicated wildlife lovers who want a full Ugandan safari experience with plenty of primates, big cats, and scenic cruises.

4. 3 days Queen Elizabeth National Park with game drive Uganda

At number 4, this 3 days Queen Elizabeth National Park with game drive offers a straightforward, yet thorough, wildlife experience. The focus here is on diversity of animals—from big cats to elephants—and the park’s unique geographical features like Lake Edward and the Kazinga Channel. The tour includes game drives and boat safaris, making it easy to see a wide range of wildlife in just three days.

The $1,050 price per person reflects a private arrangement that includes lunch and year-round availability. Guests consistently praise the abundance of animals and the well-paced schedule. It’s an ideal choice for travelers wanting a comprehensive yet manageable safari without the fuss of longer itineraries.

Bottom Line: Best suited for family groups or first-timers who want a balanced look at wildlife, geography, and scenery.

5. 3 Queen Elizabeth National Park and Boat Cruise

Number 5 features a classic Uganda safari with a twist—the Queen Elizabeth National Park and Boat Cruise combines game drives with an iconic boat ride. The park, founded in 1952, is a geographical marvel crossing the equator and is marked along the road with monuments.

The experience emphasizes close-up wildlife viewing on the boat cruise, where hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of birds are seen in their natural habitat.

The tour’s main appeal is the opportunity to see large mammals and enjoy the spectacle of the Kazinga Channel. At $1,500 per person, it’s priced for those valuing comprehensive experiences in a short timeframe. Reviewers note the unique scenery and the tranquility of the boat ride as highlights.

Bottom Line: This tour is perfect for travelers who want a mix of land and water wildlife encounters with a focus on geographical significance.

6. Kampala: Queen Elizabeth National Game Park 2-Day Safari

For those based in Kampala, the 2-Day Queen Elizabeth National Park Safari offers a quick but rich escape into Uganda’s wilderness. Over two days, you’ll explore scenic savannas, spot lions, leopards, elephants, and other big game. The tour includes a game drive and an overnight stay at a safari lodge, which often becomes the highlight itself.

The $800 price includes meals and lodging, making it a practical option for travelers short on time but eager to see Uganda’s wildlife diversity. Reviews mention the comfortable lodges and the abundance of wildlife, especially in the early morning drives.

Bottom Line: Ideal for urban dwellers or weekend travelers wanting a quick safari fix with comfortable accommodations.

7. Queen Elizabeth National Park 2-Day Chimpanzee Trekking Tour

If primates are your main interest, the Queen Elizabeth National Park 2-Day Chimpanzee Trekking Tour delivers a focused experience. Over two days, you’ll first enjoy a game drive and then spend a dedicated day trekking to see chimpanzees up close in Kalinzu Forest. The chance to observe chimpanzees natural behaviors and spend time with primates makes this a favorite for nature lovers.

The $1,200 price point reflects the specialized nature of the trek. Reviewers often mention the expert guides and wildlife richness. The trek requires some moderate fitness, and the forest environment can be humid and muddy.

Bottom Line: Best suited for primatologists or wildlife enthusiasts prioritizing chimpanzee encounters.

8. Queen Elizabeth National Park: 2 Days Wildlife Safari

This 2-Day Wildlife Safari emphasizes seeing the famous tree-climbing lions along with elephants, buffaloes, and warthogs. The game drive and boat ride allow for a well-rounded look at the fauna. The park’s diverse habitats mean you’ll see a wide variety of mammals and birds, including over 650 bird species.

The $1,100 price is quite reasonable considering the intensity of wildlife sightings packed into two days. Reviewers appreciate the organized itinerary and the chance to see lions in their natural setting.

Bottom Line: Perfect for avid wildlife watchers seeking a short but action-packed safari.

9. Queen Elizabeth National Park Day Safari

For a single-day adventure, the Queen Elizabeth National Park Day Safari from Fort Portal is a solid choice. It includes a boat safari on Kazinga Channel,—which offers a chance to see hippos and crocodiles—and a game drive to spot lions, elephants, and leopards. This tour provides a quick yet satisfying introduction to the park’s wildlife and landscape.

The $370 per person cost makes it accessible for budget-conscious travelers. Reviews highlight the beautiful scenery and easy logistics, making it a no-fuss option.

Bottom Line: Best suited for city visitors or short-term travelers wanting a taste of Uganda’s wildlife.

10. Uganda: 9Days Mt.Rwenzori circuit and Queen Elizabeth NP

Finally, the 9 Days Mt.Rwenzori circuit and Queen Elizabeth NP combines mountain climbing with safari adventures. It features mountaineering at Mount Rwenzori, also called the “Mountains of the Moon,” including gear and accommodation all included. Alongside, you’ll enjoy game drives in the savanna plains, seeking big game and soaking in the stunning mountain vistas.

This tour is perfect for adventurers who want more than just wildlife—adding the challenge of mountain trekking to the mix. Its inclusive pricing covers all activities and equipment, making logistics easy. Reviewers note this as a comprehensive, high-quality package for active travelers.

Bottom Line: Suited for experienced hikers and mountaineers willing to combine mountain and safari experiences.

How to Choose the Right Tour

When selecting your ideal Queen Elizabeth National Park tour, consider your budget, time constraints, and interests. For a short getaway, the 1-day chimpanzee trek or the day safari are excellent options. If you’re after a more comprehensive experience, the 10-day safari or the 9-day mountain and safari trip offer in-depth adventures.

Consider your fitness level for activities like mountain hikes or long treks. Also, think about whether you prefer game drives, boat safaris, or primates, as some tours specialize in one focus, like the chimpanzee trekking. Booking early, especially for gorilla permits or mountaineering gear, is advised, particularly during peak seasons.

Final Thoughts

Queen Elizabeth National Park provides a wide range of exciting activities tailored for different interests and fitness levels. If you want a quick wildlife fix, the day trips are perfect. For those seeking deep primate encounters or adventure trips, longer tours like the 10-day safari or the Mount Rwenzori circuit offer unforgettable experiences.

No matter what you choose, booking your tour early guarantees better availability, especially for sensitive permits like gorilla tracking. With so many options, you’re sure to find a tour that fits your style—and leaves you with stories to tell for years to come.