4 Day Uganda: Queen Elizabeth & Lake Bunyonyi
From Island-Dotted Lake to Wild Savannah
Begin beside the tranquil islands and terraced hills of Lake Bunyonyi before continuing into one of Uganda’s most diverse safari landscapes. This four-day private journey combines canoeing, community encounters, classic wildlife viewing, the Kazinga Channel and chimpanzee trekking in the forested Kyambura Gorge.
Queen Elizabeth National Park brings together open savannah, wetlands, crater landscapes and forest habitats, with opportunities to encounter elephants, buffalo, Uganda kob, lions and other wildlife. The Kazinga Channel adds a completely different perspective, with hippos, crocodiles, waterbirds and other animals often gathering close to the water. Uganda Wildlife Authority highlights both the Kazinga Channel and Queen Elizabeth’s exceptional bird diversity among the park’s signature experiences.
Tour highlights
- Travel from Kigali into southwestern Uganda
- Unwind beside scenic Lake Bunyonyi
- Explore the lake by traditional canoe
- Visit a local community near Lake Bunyonyi
- Safari through Queen Elizabeth National Park
- Look for elephants, buffalo, Uganda kob and other savannah wildlife
- Cruise the wildlife-rich Kazinga Channel
- Trek for chimpanzees in Kyambura Gorge
- Return privately to Kigali through western Uganda’s highlands
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Departure/Return Location
Kigali, Rwanda -
Departure Time
Please arrive by 7:00 AM for a departure at 7:30 AM -
Return Time
Approximately 8:30 PM -
Included
AccommodationAll park entrance feesDrinking WaterMealsPark Fees & PermitsProfessional English-Speaking Driver guideProfessional GuideTransport -
Not Included
Activities not included in the programAirport TransfersDaily valet laundry serviceMedical InsurancePersonal expenses like souvenirs, alcoholic drinks and cigarsTips for Guides, Rangers and hotel staffTravel Insurance
From our gallery
A glimpse of the landscapes and experiences that shape this journey across Rwanda, from Akagera's savannah and Nyungwe's rainforest to Lake Kivu and the volcanic highlands of the north.
Tour Plan
DAY 1: Kigali to Lake Bunyonyi – Canoe & Island Scenery
Meet your Opportune Safaris driver-guide in Kigali and begin the journey north toward Uganda, travelling through Rwanda’s rolling highlands before crossing the border into southwestern Uganda.
Continue toward Lake Bunyonyi, where steep cultivated hills surround a beautiful landscape of islands and calm water. After arriving and checking in, take time to settle in and enjoy the slower pace of the lake.
Later, head onto Lake Bunyonyi by canoe for a closer look at the islands, surrounding communities and everyday life along the shoreline. The experience offers a peaceful introduction to Uganda before the wildlife-focused days ahead.
DAY 2: Community Visit & Journey to Queen Elizabeth National Park
Begin the morning beside Lake Bunyonyi before visiting a local community for an introduction to life in the highlands of southwestern Uganda.
Afterwards, continue through Kabale and onward toward Queen Elizabeth National Park. The journey reveals changing landscapes as the route moves from terraced hills and cultivated countryside toward the open spaces of the Albertine Rift.
On arrival in the Queen Elizabeth region, settle into your accommodation and enjoy time to relax. Depending on arrival time and prevailing conditions, the journey into the park may also offer your first opportunities to observe wildlife.
DAY 3: Queen Elizabeth Wildlife Safari & Kazinga Channel
Begin early with a game drive through Queen Elizabeth National Park, exploring open savannah and other wildlife habitats with your driver-guide.
Look for elephants, buffalo, Uganda kob, waterbuck and other plains wildlife, while lions and leopards may also be encountered depending on their movements and conditions on the day.
After the morning safari and lunch, head onto the Kazinga Channel for an afternoon boat cruise. Travel between Lake George and Lake Edward while watching for hippos, crocodiles, elephants and buffalo along the shoreline, together with the rich birdlife associated with the channel.
Return to your accommodation after the cruise and enjoy a relaxed final evening near the park.
DAY 4: Chimpanzee Trekking in Kyambura Gorge & Return to Kigali
After breakfast, travel to Kyambura Gorge for the final wildlife experience of the journey: guided chimpanzee trekking.
Descend into the forested gorge with an experienced guide and search for chimpanzees among the dense vegetation. The forest also supports other primates and varied birdlife, while trekking duration depends on the location and movement of the chimpanzees.
After the trek, freshen up and begin the journey back toward Rwanda. Enjoy lunch along the way while travelling through the highlands toward the border and onward to Kigali.
Depending on your international flight schedule, continue directly to Kigali International Airport or to your pre-arranged accommodation in the city.
4-Day Uganda Wildlife & Lake Journey
Current 2026 rate based on two travelers sharing.
| Travelers | Price per person |
|---|---|
| 2 travelers | USD 1,846 |
Final pricing is subject to accommodation, chimpanzee permit and activity availability at the time of confirmation.
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