A cruise along the Kazinga Channel in Queen Elizabeth National Park
Queen Elizabeth National Park is one of the most visited tourist destinations in Uganda. It is situated in the western portion of the country across the regions of Kasese, Kamwenge, Bushenyi and Rukungiri. Among the several activities arranged in the park and its surroundings, the cruise along the Kazinga Channel was exciting. Although the park does not offer the opportunity to see many animals during a game drive, the Kazinga Channel cruise is really worth the visit.
Kazinga Channel is a huge and long natural canal in the Mweya sector that links Lake George and Lake Edward. Lake George lies on the eastern side of Kazinga and is fed by streams flowing from the jagged Rwenzori Mountains just north of the lake; Lake Edward lies on the western side, covering a total area of 2 000 sq/km and marks the lowest point of the Park at 910 metres asl. The channel is indeed the highlight of the park and its banks teem of wildlife, including buffaloes, hippos, elephants, Nile crocodiles, and many birds.
The boat trip starts from the pier near the Mweya Safari Lodge (you have to book the cruise there) until you get close to Lake Edward when the boat turns back. The departure time is at 2 pm, and 4 pm and the cruise lasts about 2 hours. The best viewings are done on the left bank; therefore, take a seat on the left side of the boat.
