Boat Safari on Kazinga Channel – Enjoy an exciting adventure on a boat safari along the calm waters of the Kazinga Channel, a natural waterway that connects Lake Edward and Lake George.
Boat trips are usually organized near Katunguru Bridge by either the Uganda Wildlife Authority, which runs larger and more affordable cruises, or Mweya Safari Lodge, which offers a more private experience for guests staying at the Mweya Peninsula.
Uganda Wildlife Authority often has more tourists because it offers cheaper prices and runs many boat trips each day. If you choose to go with Mweya Safari Lodge, your tour operator can help you with the booking.
The boat ride on the Kazinga Channel gives you a close view of the wildlife in Queen Elizabeth National Park. You may see hippos, crocodiles, and many birds. The cruise is guided by an experienced tour guide who shares information about the animals, plants, and local communities. This helps visitors understand the area and feel connected to its culture and nature.
The cruise lasts about two hours and usually begins at a landing stage just below Mweya Safari Lodge. It ends at the mouth of the Kazinga Channel where it joins Lake Edward. The channel is about 32 kilometers long and offers great views and sounds of the wild.
Only guests wearing life jackets are allowed on the boat for safety, as the channel is home to dangerous animals like crocodiles and hippos. If you have a media permit, you are allowed to take photos and videos during the cruise.
As you sail, you will see local fishermen, many bird species, and different animals coming to drink water, especially during the dry season. Animals you may see include grey elephants, water monitor lizards, bushbucks, Uganda kobs, leopards, waterbucks, and buffaloes. Because water is limited during the dry season, many animals gather at the channel, and predators like lions and leopards find it easier to hunt.
Some of the birds you may see include:
- Yellow-billed stork
- Plovers
- Pink-backed pelicans
- Long-tailed cormorant
- Open-billed cormorant
- Water thick-knee
A boat safari on the Kazinga Channel is one of the top activities to enjoy in Queen Elizabeth National Park.
