Cruising the Kazinga Channel

A short drive from Kyambura Gorge Lodge, we entered Queen Elizabeth National Park. We made our way down a bumpy dirt road to the check in center for visitors to the Kazinga Channel. 

While we took a quick bathroom break, we had a chance to see warthogs wandering around the grounds, stopping to munch as they walked! (I had NO idea the warthogs knelt down with their front legs in order to eat!) We also saw a family of banded mongoose scurrying about!

After checking in, we hopped back into the car and drove down to the boat docks. This is where the Volcanoes Safaris difference really comes into play. As we approached the dock, we saw the big double-decker tourist boat lined up. Travelers were being packed into it to begin their cruise of the channel - with many travelers stuck in upper deck, central seats, nowhere near the water. Our guide led us away from this boat, and on to our own private little luxury boat where every leather seat was close to the water, the wine was flowing freely, and the snacks were plentiful! 

Thanks to our small size, we were able to cruise right along the coast as we made our way down the channel. The bird lovers were in paradise as we spotted and photographed so many beautiful (and often tiny) species of birds.

The mammal lovers were thrilled by the up-close encounters with buffalo and hippos in the water.

Along the shoreline, we also delighted in seeing crocodiles, elephants, warthogs, water bucks, monitor lizards and vervet monkeys as they enjoyed their beautiful evening by the river.

I was thankful for Volcanoes Safaris and how they operate this visit, which allowed us to have up close and personal experiences with these amazing creatures!