3 Days Queen Elizabeth Budget Safari Tour 2026/2027/2028
The 3 Days Queen Elizabeth Budget Safari Tour is designed for travellers who want a genuine Uganda wildlife experience at an affordable price without compromising safety or quality. Located in western Uganda, Queen Elizabeth National Park is famous for its open savannah, volcanic crater lakes, tree-climbing lions, hippo-filled channels and more than 70 mammal species. On this budget safari, you enjoy classic game drives, a scenic Kazinga Channel boat cruise, and comfortable yet simple accommodation that keeps costs low while still supporting local communities and conservation.
This 3-day itinerary is perfect for backpackers, solo travelers, students or families who want to add a short, affordable safari to a longer East Africa trip. You can easily combine it with Uganda gorilla safaris or extend your East Africa holiday with Kenya safari tours for a wider regional circuit. For up-to-date conservation information and park regulations, guests are encouraged to consult the official Uganda Wildlife Authority
By choosing this budget Queen Elizabeth National Park safari, you travel in small groups, minimise your footprint and contribute directly to national park fees and local jobs—an eco-friendly way to explore Uganda’s incredible landscapes.
Price Comparison Table (Budget Focus)
| Package Type | 2026 Price (Per Person) | 2027 Price (Per Person) | 2028 Price (Per Person) | Includes Kazinga Cruise? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Budget Package | From USD 690 | From USD 720 | From USD 750 | ✔ Yes |
| Budget + Chimp Tracking Add-On | From USD 840 | From USD 870 | From USD 900 | ✔ Yes |
| Budget + Extra Night in the Park | From USD 910 | From USD 945 | From USD 980 | ✔ Yes |
Prices based on shared occupancy, group size 2+; final quote depends on travel dates, availability and chosen budget lodge.
3-Day Queen Elizabeth Budget Safari Itinerary
Day 1: Kampala/Entebbe – Drive to Queen Elizabeth National Park – Evening Game Drive
Your 3 Days Queen Elizabeth Budget Safari Tour begins with an early pick-up from Kampala or Entebbe, followed by a scenic drive through rolling hills, tea plantations and traditional villages. Your English-speaking driver-guide shares insights into Uganda’s culture and wildlife along the way. Arrive at Queen Elizabeth National Park in time for a late afternoon game drive on the Kasenyi plains, searching for elephants, buffalo, Uganda kob and, with luck, lions. Check in to a clean, comfortable budget lodge or guesthouse, enjoy dinner and relax under the starry African sky.
Day 2: Morning Game Drive & Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise (Budget Style)
After an early breakfast, head out for a sunrise game drive when animals are most active. Explore the open savannah as you look for elephants, warthogs, antelopes, hyenas and a rich variety of birdlife. Because this is a budget safari, you share the 4×4 vehicle with a small group, keeping costs low while still enjoying a professional guiding experience. After lunch, enjoy a boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel, famous for hippos, crocodiles and shoreline wildlife. In the evening, return to your budget lodge for dinner and overnight.
Day 3: Optional Ishasha Extension – Return to Kampala/Entebbe
On your final day, enjoy a relaxed breakfast and a short game drive as you exit the park, with the option (at extra cost) to detour via the Ishasha sector, known for its rare tree-climbing lions resting in fig trees. Even without the extension, you still have good chances of seeing elephants, buffalo and antelope on the way out. Stop for lunch en route, then continue back to Kampala or Entebbe, arriving in the late afternoon or evening. Your budget Queen Elizabeth National Park safari ends with drop-off at your hotel or the airport, carrying unforgettable memories at a very accessible price.
Frequently Asked Questions – 3 Days Queen Elizabeth Budget Safari Tour
1. Is this budget safari suitable for first-time travelers to Uganda?
Yes. This tour is ideal for first-time visitors who want an affordable yet memorable safari. It includes comfortable budget lodges, shared game drives, and professional guiding, making it stress-free even for travelers unfamiliar with Uganda.
2. Will I still see wildlife on a budget safari?
Absolutely. Queen Elizabeth National Park is one of Uganda’s most wildlife-rich destinations, and budget travelers experience the same game-viewing routes as luxury clients — including elephants, hippos, buffalo, antelopes, and the famous Kazinga Channel wildlife sightings.
3. Are meals included in the price?
Yes. All meals mentioned in the itinerary are included. Most budget lodges provide buffet-style meals, clean drinking water, and vegetarian options upon request.
4. Can this safari be upgraded later?
Yes. You may add an Ishasha sector visit, chimp trekking in Kalinzu Forest, an extra night, or upgrade to mid-range/luxury lodge options without changing the core itinerary.
5. How many people share the safari vehicle?
To keep the tour budget-friendly, the shared 4×4 Land Cruiser or safari van accommodates 6–7 travelers, ensuring reduced costs while maintaining great viewing and photography opportunities.
6. Are park entry fees included?
Yes. Uganda Wildlife Authority park fees are included in the safari price.
7. What is the best time to book this budget safari?
June–September and December–February offer the best game viewing and weather conditions, though the safari operates year-round.
8. Is the Kazinga Channel boat cruise included?
Yes. The cruise is part of the package and is a highlight of the safari, especially for hippos, crocodiles, elephants and aquatic birds.
BUDGET TRAVELLER TESTIMONIALS
⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ — Patrick, UK
“I couldn’t believe how affordable this safari was! The wildlife sightings were incredible and the Kazinga Channel cruise was unforgettable. Perfect for travelers on a budget.”
⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ — Esther, Netherlands
“Very well-organized and worth every dollar. The guide knew everything about the animals and the lodge was simple but clean and comfortable.”
⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ — Omar, UAE
“As a solo traveler, this was the best value trip I’ve taken. I made friends, saw lions and elephants, and didn’t spend a fortune. Highly recommended!”
⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ — Maria, Argentina
“Fantastic game drives and great service. Budget doesn’t mean low quality. This tour exceeded my expectations!”
⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ — Kelvin, South Africa
“Seeing hippos and crocodiles up close was amazing. This was the cheapest safari option I found, yet it delivered a full wildlife experience.”
Ready to Begin Your Queen Elizabeth Safari Adventure?
Uganda’s legendary wilderness awaits! Secure your spot on this unforgettable journey and explore the breathtaking plains, tree-climbing lions, Kazinga Channel boat cruises, and incredible wildlife sightings—tailored to your budget, schedule, and travel style.
Talk to Our Safari Expert Now
WhatsApp: +254 728 567 308
Responses in Under 5 Minutes
Click to Plan or Book Your Safari
✔ Check Availability
✔ Get a Free Custom Quote
✔ Reserve with a Small Deposit
