Queen Elizabeth Cat Tracking Experience by Kikorongo Rest Camp
Queen Elizabeth Cat Tracking Experience by Kikorongo Rest Camp
About this Package
The Queen Elizabeth Lion (Predator) Tracking activity is a specialized, experimental tourism offering managed in partnership with the Uganda Carnivore Program (UCP). It gives you a guaranteed, up-close encounter with Queen Elizabeth's magnificent cats, all while contributing directly to their conservation. The Experience and its Encounters: • The Procedure: Your safari vehicle will be accompanied by UWA researchers/rangers who use radio telemetry tracking equipment (VHF receiver and antenna). This equipment detects the signal from unique collars placed on a select few lions within the pride, making the location of the lions highly probable (often >95% chance). • Encounters with Lions: Unlike a regular game drive where you might see lions from a distance, the tracking activity allows you to approach the pride very closely—often within a few meters. You will spend time observing them as they: o Rest and socialize in the morning sun. o Interact with their cubs. o Stalk nearby prey (Uganda Kobs). o Demonstrate territorial behavior (scent marking). • Learning and Conservation: The experience is highly educational. The UCP researchers will share insights into the lions' current research data, population dynamics, behavioral patterns, and the challenges of carnivore conservation in the park. • Other Cats and Predators: While the focus is on lions, the Kasenyi Plains are prime hunting grounds. The early morning hours offer the best chance to spot the more elusive cats: o Leopards: Often seen retreating to cover after a night hunt. o Serval Cats or African Wild Cats: Sometimes seen hunting small prey in the tall grass. o Spotted Hyenas: Frequently encountered returning to their dens after scavenging. • Ample Prey: The Kasenyi Plains hold massive numbers of Uganda Kobs, which are the main source of food for the lions, creating a dynamic and exciting ecosystem.
What you'll do
Night 1: Arrival & Equator Experience
Day 1
Afternoon Arrival & Equator Experience: Arrive at Kikorongo Rest Camp. Kikorongo is famous for the Equatorial Line monument. Take a short walk or drive to the monument for photos and the unique experience of standing in both the Northern and Southern Hemispheres simultaneously. 15:00: Check-in and Rest: Check in to your accommodation at Kikorongo Rest Camp. Take time to relax and prepare your gear for the early morning activity. 18:00: Briefing & Dinner Meet with your guide for a quick pre-safari briefing on the lion tracking procedure. Enjoy dinner at the camp, resting up for the 5:30 AM start. Night Overnight Overnight at Kikorongo Rest Camp.
Day 1: Lion Tracking & Kasenyi Plains Game Drive
Day 2
05:30: Early Departure Wake up early and take a packed breakfast/tea/coffee. Drive towards the designated Lion Tracking area in the Kasenyi Plains. The Kasenyi Plains are conveniently close to Kikorongo. 06:30 - 09:30: Specialized Lion Tracking Meet the UWA/UCP research team. Begin the drive, using the radio telemetry to locate the collared lions. Spend up to three hours with a lion pride, witnessing close-range behavior and learning directly from the researchers. 09:30 - 12:30: Extended Game Drive: Cats & Prey Continue a traditional game drive across the Kasenyi Plains. Look for Leopards, Hyenas, and the vast herds of prey animals like Uganda Kob, Waterbuck, and Buffalo. This is a great time to search for smaller cat species before the sun gets too hot. 13:00: Lunch & Leisure Return to Kikorongo Rest Camp for a relaxed lunch and afternoon rest. 15:30: Crater Lakes Scenic Drive Embark on a spectacular drive through the volcanic Crater Lakes region near Kikorongo. This geological marvel provides stunning photo opportunities and is a wonderful change of scenery from the open plains. 18:00: Sunset Viewing Find a scenic spot near the camp to watch the sun set over the vast plains, a perfect end to a day of predator pursuit. 19:30: Dinner Dinner at Kikorongo Rest Camp.
Day 2: Departure
Day 3
Morning: Final Breakfast & Departure:- Enjoy a final breakfast at Kikorongo Rest Camp. Give community contribution (if any), buy souvenirs, Check out and begin your onward journey.
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