5-Day Queen Elizabeth & Lake Mburo Safari (Midrange Safari)
Destinations: Queen Elizabeth National Park • Lake Mburo National Park
Safari Style: Midrange lodges with scenic views, personalized service, and authentic safari experiences
Ideal for: Private travelers, couples, families, and small groups seeking wildlife, nature, and cultural immersion
Uganda’s Western Safari Circuit
This 5-day safari takes you through the heart of Uganda’s western savannahs, from the expansive plains and crater lakes of Queen Elizabeth National Park to the rolling acacia woodlands and lakeshores of Lake Mburo. Expect thrilling game drives, boat cruises, and walking safaris, all while staying in comfortable lodges that offer warm hospitality and stunning views.
Whether you're tracking lions in Kasenyi or watching zebras graze near Lake Mburo, this itinerary offers a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.
Key Tour Highlights & Unique Selling Points
- Game drives in Queen Elizabeth NP with chances to spot lions, elephants, buffaloes, and Uganda kob
- Boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel with hippos, crocodiles, and water birds
- Scenic crater lake exploration and cultural village visits
- Walking safari and boat ride in Lake Mburo NP, Uganda’s most accessible park
- Midrange lodges with panoramic views, local cuisine, and wildlife proximity
- Ideal for short escapes with high-impact wildlife encounters and minimal travel fatigue
Major Attractions
| Location | Highlight |
|---|---|
| Queen Elizabeth NP | Big game, crater lakes, Kazinga Channel |
| Lake Mburo NP | Zebras, elands, impalas, walking safaris |
| Kazinga Channel | Boat cruise with hippos, crocodiles, birds |
| Rwenzori Foothills | Scenic drives and cultural encounters |
Accessibility Options
- By Road: ~5–6 hours from Kampala to Queen Elizabeth NP via Fort Portal or Mbarara
- Queen Elizabeth to Lake Mburo: ~4 hours via Ishaka and Mbarara
- Lake Mburo to Kampala: ~3.5 hours via Masaka
- Transfers: All ground transfers provided in 4x4 safari vehicles with pop-up roof and bottled water
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Kampala → Queen Elizabeth National Park
Activities:
- Scenic Transfer via Fort Portal or Mbarara Depart early and enjoy views of tea plantations, crater lakes, and the Rwenzori Mountains. Duration: ~6 hours with lunch stop
- Evening Crater Lake Drive or Lodge Relaxation Optional drive to explore the Katwe explosion craters or unwind at the lodge with sunset views. Duration: 1.5 hours
Accommodation: Midrange Option: Twin Lakes Safari Lodge / Elephant Hub Lodge
Amenities: En-suite rooms, panoramic views, restaurant & bar, Wi-Fi, solar power
Day 2: Game Drive & Kazinga Channel Boat Safari
Activities:
- Morning Game Drive in Kasenyi Plains Spot lions, elephants, buffaloes, warthogs, and antelopes in the savannah. Duration: 2.5–3 hours
- Afternoon Boat Cruise on Kazinga Channel Cruise past hippos, crocodiles, and water birds. Great for photography and relaxation. Duration: 2 hours
Accommodation: Same as Day 1
Day 3: Transfer to Lake Mburo NP & Cultural Stop
Activities:
- Scenic Transfer to Lake Mburo via Mbarara Stop for lunch and visit a local community or museum en route. Duration: ~4 hours with cultural stop
- Evening Nature Walk or Lodge Leisure Optional guided walk near the lodge to spot impalas, bushbucks, and birds. Duration: 1 hour
Accommodation: Midrange Option: Rwakobo Rock / Mburo Safari Lodge
Amenities: En-suite cottages, hilltop views, restaurant, solar lighting, Wi-Fi (limited)
Day 4: Walking Safari & Lake Mburo Boat Ride
Activities:
- Morning Walking Safari with Ranger Explore the park on foot, spotting zebras, elands, topis, and birdlife. Duration: 2 hours
- Afternoon Boat Ride on Lake Mburo Glide across the lake to see hippos, crocodiles, and water birds. Duration: 1.5 hours
Accommodation: Same as Day 3
Day 5: Sunrise Game Drive & Return to Kampala
Activities:
- Optional Sunrise Game Drive or Horseback Safari Enjoy a final game drive or optional horseback safari (advance booking required). Duration: 1.5–2 hours
- Scenic Drive Back to Kampala Depart mid-morning with lunch en route and optional stop at the equator monument. Duration: ~3.5 hours
What to Carry & Requirements
- Valid passport and Uganda visa
- Yellow fever vaccination certificate
- Lightweight clothing in neutral colors
- Sturdy walking shoes or boots
- Sunscreen, insect repellent, hat, sunglasses
- Binoculars and camera with extra batteries
- Reusable water bottle and personal medications
- Rain jacket (especially March–May or Oct–Nov)
✅ Inclusions
- All ground transport in 4x4 safari vehicle
- 4 nights midrange accommodation
- All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
- Park entry fees and ranger guides
- Game drives, boat cruises, walking safari
- Cultural visit and crater lake drive
- Bottled drinking water during transfers
❌ Exclusions
- International flights
- Uganda visa fees
- Travel insurance
- Tips and personal expenses
- Optional activities not listed
- Alcoholic beverages
Accommodation Overview
| Lodge Name | Location | Key Amenities |
|---|---|---|
| Twin Lakes Safari Lodge | Queen Elizabeth NP | Panoramic views, pool, en-suite rooms |
| Rwakobo Rock | Lake Mburo NP | Hilltop cottages, solar power, nature trails |
Ready to Explore Uganda’s Wild West?
This midrange safari offers the perfect balance of wildlife, culture, and scenic beauty, ideal for private or group travelers.