Combining Lake Mutanda with Queen Elizabeth Safari
Are you looking out for a Combined Lake Mutanda with Queen Elizabeth Safari? This safari blends wildlife, water, and culture in just four days. The trip includes exciting game drives, a peaceful boat cruise, and a canoe ride on Lake Mutanda. You’ll also meet local people and see their way of life.
Day 1: Arrival and Drive to Queen Elizabeth National Park
After landing in Uganda at Entebbe International Airport, our team will welcome you and help with your luggage. From the airport, you’ll travel to Queen Elizabeth National Park. The road trip offers beautiful views of hills, farms and small towns.
You’ll stop at the Equator for photos. This is where the northern and southern hemispheres meet. It’s a fun stop with shops and a small café.
Later, you’ll arrive at your lodge inside or near the park. Take time to rest or enjoy the view from your room. If you have energy, walk around the lodge area. Dinner will be served, and you’ll prepare for an early morning game drive.
Accommodation Options
- Luxury: Mweya Safari Lodge, Kyambura Gorge Lodge, Elephant Plains Lodge
- Mid-Range: Enganzi Game Lodge, Buffalo Safari Lodge, Twin Lakes Safari Lodge
- Budget: Pumba Safari Cottages, Simba Safari Camp, The Bush Lodge
Day 2: Game Drive and Optional Night Safari
Start your morning with a hot drink and a packed breakfast. Your guide will then take you for a game drive in the Kasenyi Plains. This part of the park has a lot of animals. You may spot lions resting or hunting. Watch for elephants moving slowly across the open grass. Buffalos often appear in herds, and antelopes feed calmly nearby.
Your guide will help you spot animals and explain what they do. The drive lasts for a few hours before returning to the lodge for lunch.
In the evening, relax at your lodge or join a night game drive. This gives you a chance to see hyenas, bush babies, or leopards. These animals often hide during the day but come out after dark.
A night drive feels different. The sounds, the cold air, and the glowing eyes in the dark make it special.
Day 3: Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise and Lake Mutanda Canoe Ride
After breakfast, drive to the Kazinga Channel for a morning boat cruise. This waterway links Lake Edward to Lake George. It attracts many animals, especially in the dry season.
You’ll see hippos floating in groups. Crocodiles lie on the shore, barely moving. Elephants and buffaloes often come down to drink water. You’ll also see lots of birds, including kingfishers, herons, and pelicans.
The boat cruise lasts about two hours. After that, your guide will drive you to Lake Mutanda in Kisoro. The road winds through hills and villages with lovely views all around.
When you arrive, you’ll go for a canoe ride. Local guides will paddle you across the calm water. You’ll pass small islands and spot birds flying low.
The lake sits in the shadow of the Virunga volcanoes. On clear days, the mountains look close and large.
Accommodation Options
- Luxury: Chameleon Hill Lodge, Mutanda Lake Resort (Luxury Rooms)
- Mid-Range: Mutanda Lake Resort (Standard Rooms), Travellers Rest Hotel Kisoro
- Budget: Lake Mulehe Safari Lodge (Budget Rooms), Amajambere Iwacu Community Camp
Optional Afternoon Activities at Lake Mutanda
You have some choices after the canoe ride. You might go for a walk around the lake. The paths pass through small farms and forest patches. Local guides explain plants, birds, and views along the way.
Another option is visiting a nearby community. You’ll meet local people, see their homes, and learn how they live. They may show you crafts or play local music. These visits help support the people who live near the lake.
Later, return to your lodge and enjoy the quiet evening. Sit by the fire or enjoy dinner while watching the sunset reflect on the lake.
Day 4: Morning by the Lake and Departure
On your last day, take your time in the morning. Watch the sunrise light up the volcanoes. Enjoy a slow breakfast while listening to birds and water sounds.
You may want to try more activities before leaving. One option is fishing on the lake. Local guides provide fishing rods and show you how to use them. You might catch tilapia or other small fish.
Bird lovers will also enjoy looking for more birds around the lake. Look out for weavers, sunbirds, and eagles.
After lunch, your driver will take you back to Entebbe or Kampala. The trip back is long but smooth, with a few breaks along the way. This ends your four-day adventure in western Uganda.
What to Pack for the Safari
- Pack light but smart. Bring clothes that cover arms and legs. These protect you from sun and insects.
- Wear sturdy shoes, especially if you plan to hike. Bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen for sunny days.
- A light jacket will help in the mornings and evenings. Also carry a small backpack for your camera, water, and snacks.
- If you want to take part in night drives, carry a flashlight or headlamp.
- Don’t forget a pair of binoculars. They help you spot animals and birds that are far.
Best Time to Travel
This safari runs all year, but dry seasons are easier. June to August and December to February have less rain. Roads are better, and animals gather near water sources.
Rainy months like April and November have fewer tourists. The views are green and lush. If you don’t mind short rains, it’s still a good time.
