The Kazinga Channel boat cruise is one of the best ways to enjoy the wildlife and scenery of Queen Elizabeth National Park. The boat cruise is done on the Kazinga Channel, a natural waterway that connects Lake Edward and Lake George.

The Kazinga Channel is 40 kilometers long, with a variety of animals, birds, reptiles, and plants, as well as some local fishing villages along its banks.

The boat cruise begins from the Mweya peninsula, near the Katunguru bridge and takes about two hours. It costs $30 per person and runs twice a day, in the morning and in the afternoon.

Hippo in Queen Elizabeth National Park

The morning cruise offers a chance to see the animals as they start their day, while the afternoon cruise gives you a spectacular view of the sunset over the water. Whichever time you choose to go, you will be able to enjoy seeing many animals, birds, and stunning views of the Rwenzori Mountains and the Mweya Peninsula

The best time to do the boat cruise is in the afternoon, when the animals are more active and come to the channel to drink, bathe, or cool off.

You will have a chance to see one of the largest concentrations of hippos in the world, estimated at around 2,000 and many Nile crocodiles, which are among the largest reptiles on earth. Other animals that you might encounter on the boat cruise include elephants, buffaloes, antelopes, warthogs, and occasionally lions or leopards.

Birds in Queen Elizabeth National Park
Birds along the Kazinga Channel in Queen Elizabeth NP

The boat cruise offers an opportunity to see many bird species such as pelicans, storks, herons, kingfishers, skimmers, and eagles. Some of these birds are migratory and can only be seen at certain times of the year.

The boat is comfortable and spacious, with a capacity of 40 passengers. It has an upper deck where you can enjoy the panoramic views and take photos, and a lower deck where you can relax and listen to the informative commentary from the guide.

The Kazinga Channel boat cruise is one of the most popular activities in Queen Elizabeth National Park, and for a good reason. It offers a unique opportunity to see a large number of animals and birds in their natural habitat, without disturbing them. 

The Kazinga Channel boat cruise is a perfect addition to your safari in Uganda. If you want to book this boat cruise, you can contact us and we will help you arrange it.

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