3-Day Tree-Climbing Lions Tour and Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise

Last updated October 2026. Planned by Victoria Kayaga, tour operator at Afraeka Adventures, with over 7 years in East African tourism.

Tree climbing lions tour: quick answer

This 3 day tree climbing lions tour from Kampala or Entebbe focuses on Queen Elizabeth National Park. You take a game drive on the Kasenyi plains, visit the Ishasha sector, famous for its tree-climbing lions, and enjoy a Kazinga Channel boat cruise to see hippos, crocodiles and birdlife.

It suits travellers who want a short, wildlife-focused break without a gorilla trek. Sightings in the wild are never guaranteed, and tree-climbing lions are seen on some days and not others.

Day-by-day route of the tree climbing lions tour

Day 1: arrival and game drive in the Kasenyi plains

Your journey begins with a scenic drive from Kampala or Entebbe to Queen Elizabeth National Park, with views of rolling hills, lush plantations and traditional villages. When you arrive you check into your lodge and have a brief rest.

In the afternoon you go on your first game drive in the Kasenyi Plains, a prime area for wildlife viewing. The region is home to elephants, buffaloes, antelopes and numerous bird species, and with luck you might spot a pride of lions preparing for their evening hunt. Your guide shares insights into the behaviour of the animals you meet.

Day 2: tree-climbing lions and the Kazinga Channel

After an early breakfast you head to the Ishasha sector in the southern part of the park. This area is famous for its tree-climbing lions, a rare behaviour seen in only a few places in the world. The lions often lounge on the branches of fig trees, escaping the heat of the day.

You return to your lodge for lunch, and in the afternoon you set out on a boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel. This 32-kilometre natural channel connects Lake Edward and Lake George and is a haven for wildlife. You see large pods of hippos, Nile crocodiles basking on the shores and many birds, including kingfishers, pelicans and African fish eagles.

Day 3: final game drive and departure

On your final day you enjoy an early morning game drive to catch any wildlife you might have missed. The park’s varied habitats, from open savannah to dense forests, support a rich diversity of species. Keep an eye out for leopards, hyenas and the elusive giant forest hog.

After the game drive you have breakfast and begin the return journey to Kampala or Entebbe, arriving in the late afternoon.

What you can see on a tree climbing lions tour

The Kasenyi Plains are a good area for elephants, buffaloes, antelopes and many bird species, and with luck lions. Queen Elizabeth National Park has also recorded more than 600 bird species, so it is a great park for birdwatchers.

The Kazinga Channel links Lake George and Lake Edward, and animals come to its banks to drink. Expect hippos, buffaloes, elephants, crocodiles and a large variety of water birds, all seen from the water at close range.

What is included

Included are transportation in a 4×4 safari vehicle, a professional driver-guide, park entry fees, accommodation for two nights, meals as specified in the itinerary, a boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel and game drives in the Kasenyi Plains and the Ishasha sector.

International flights, visa fees, personal travel insurance, tips for guides and porters, and alcoholic beverages and personal expenses are not included.

How Afraeka plans your tree climbing lions tour

We start with your pick-up point and dates, then confirm the timings so that the Ishasha game drive and the boat cruise fit comfortably into the itinerary. Your guide knows where to look for the lions, although sightings can never be guaranteed.

If you want to add gorilla trekking, you can compare this trip with our other Uganda safari packages or browse all our Uganda safaris. For lodge ideas, see our guide to Uganda parks and lodges.

Tree climbing lions tour FAQ

Where can I see the tree-climbing lions?

The tree-climbing lions live in the Ishasha sector in the south of Queen Elizabeth National Park, where they often rest in the branches of large fig trees. This itinerary includes a game drive in Ishasha. Sightings can never be guaranteed, but your guide will know where to look.

What will I see on the Kazinga Channel boat cruise?

The Kazinga Channel links Lake George and Lake Edward, and the animals come to its banks to drink. Expect hippos, buffaloes, elephants, crocodiles and a large variety of water birds.

What wildlife can I see on the game drives?

The Kasenyi Plains are a good area for elephants, buffaloes, antelopes and many bird species, and with luck lions. Queen Elizabeth National Park has also recorded more than 600 bird species.

Do I need a visa or vaccinations for Uganda?

Most visitors need a visa, which you should apply for online through the official Uganda e-Visa system before you travel. Speak to your doctor or a travel clinic well before departure about vaccinations, such as yellow fever, and malaria prevention.

Related guides and sources

Read our guides to Uganda visa requirements and what to pack. For official information see the Uganda Wildlife Authority and the Uganda e-Visa system, or request a free quote for this tree climbing lions tour.