Family Safaris to Queen Elizabeth National park – Queen Elizabeth National Park is located in western Uganda and is about a 6-hour drive from Kampala. It is easy to reach by road or flight, making it a good choice for a family safari. Flights from Entebbe International Airport to Kasese Airstrip are short, and then a transfer to the lodge follows.
The park has many places to stay that are suitable for families. These accommodations offer large family rooms and have staff available all day and night. Options range from luxury to mid-range and budget. For example, Kyambura Gorge Lodge has cozy rooms, a swimming pool to keep children entertained, and good service.
Elephant Plains Lodge, which is mid-range, has comfortable family cottages and is good for game drives in the plains. Parkview Safari Lodge is a budget-friendly option with simple rooms, nice views of the park, and family bandas.
The park offers many family-friendly activities. Game drives in the Savannah areas of Kasenyi Plains are great for spotting lions, buffaloes, and elephants. This area is close by, so the drive is not too long for young children.
Before the game drive, help your children know what to expect. Pack snacks, water, and small games to keep them engaged. Since animals are most active in the early morning, make sure the children go to bed early to prepare for the drive.
Another fun activity is a walking safari in Maramagambo Forest, where you can see birds, monkeys, bats, and Lake Kyasanduka. Be sure to wear comfortable closed shoes and use insect repellent, since the park is in a malaria zone. Sleep under treated mosquito nets and talk to your doctor about anti-malaria medicine before your trip.
Boat safaris along Kazinga Channel are also exciting. Families can enjoy watching hippos, crocodiles, and waterbirds from the boat. You can also visit a local community in Kikorongo, where children can learn about the local way of life and see handmade crafts.
For safety, always follow the park rules. Stay in the vehicle during game drives and do not feed any animals. This helps keep everyone, especially children, safe.
The best time to visit is during the dry seasons, from December to February and June to August. Wildlife is easier to see, roads are dry, and there are fewer mosquitoes, which lowers the risk of malaria.
Remember to carry a first aid kit and make sure everyone has the necessary vaccinations, such as yellow fever, typhoid, and hepatitis A and B, to enjoy a safe and fun family safari.
