Daily costs per person in US dollars. Queen Elizabeth NP is accessible at various budget levels — from camping and self-driving to luxury safari lodges. Park fees ($40/day) are a fixed cost, but accommodation and activities are flexible.
Daily cost breakdown
Currency: UGX (Ugandan Shilling) (USD accepted for park fees and lodges)
| Category | Budget | Mid-range | Splurge | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | $15–40 | $50–120 | $200+ | Camping/bandas → mid-range lodges → luxury safari lodges |
| Food | $8–15 | $15–35 | $50+ | Self-catering → lodge meals → luxury dining |
| Transport | $10–25 | $30–60 | $80+ | Shared vehicle → private 4WD hire → charter flight |
| Park Fees | $40 | $40 | $40 | Park entry $40/day for foreigners (UWA) |
| Activities | $20–50 | $50–100 | $150+ | Boat cruise → chimp tracking → night drives |
| Daily Total | $40–100 | $145–355 | $520+ | Budget camping → comfortable mid → luxury safari |
Money-saving tips
Book UWA activities directly
Book boat cruises, game drives, and chimp tracking directly through UWA at the park headquarters. Tour operators add significant markups. The UWA office at Mweya handles bookings for all activities.
Stay at UWA bandas or camp
UWA operates basic bandas (thatched huts) and campsites within the park from $20–40 per night. These are much cheaper than private lodges and put you right in the middle of the wildlife.
Share vehicle costs
Game drives require a vehicle. Sharing a 4WD with other travellers splits the fuel and guide costs. Ask your lodge to combine you with other guests for morning and afternoon drives.
Pack your own food
Lodge restaurants charge premium prices. Bring food supplies from Fort Portal or Kasese. The park has minimal shops — stock up before entering.
Combine sectors strategically
Plan your route to visit Kasenyi Plains, Kazinga Channel, Kyambura Gorge, and Ishasha without backtracking. The park is large — smart routing saves time and fuel costs.
Use the equator bus stop
Public buses between Kasese and Mbarara stop at the equator crossing inside the park. You can access some park areas by public transport, though a vehicle is needed for game drives.
