Mweya Airfield is a small but vital airstrip situated in Queen Elizabeth National Park in western Uganda. This airfield serves as a gateway to the park, offering convenient access to one of Uganda’s most popular wildlife destinations. Located in Kasese District, Mweya Airfield, one of the airfields in Uganda provides direct air travel options for visitors looking to avoid the longer road journey to this region. It is approximately 283 kilometers (176 miles) west of Entebbe International Airport, the primary international gateway to Uganda. The airport is located at latitude -0.19400 and longitude 29.89410.The journey to Mweya Airfield is efficient, requiring less than an hour’s flight from Entebbe. This makes it an ideal choice for travelers who want to maximize their time while on safaris to Queen Elizabeth National Park, one of the major tourist attractions in western Uganda. Upon landing, visitors find themselves almost at the doorstep of Mweya Safari Lodge, a prominent accommodation facility known for its stunning views of the Kazinga Channel and its luxurious amenities.

Mweya Airfield not only serves the immediate area around Mweya but also provides access to the broader attractions of Queen Elizabeth National Park. This includes the Lake Katwe Explosion Crater, a geological marvel formed by volcanic activity, and various game viewing opportunities within the park. The airfield is one of Uganda’s 46 civilian airports and plays a critical role in supporting tourism and regional connectivity in this part of the country.

In addition to its convenience for tourists, Mweya Airfield underscores the integration of conservation and tourism. Its location within the park allows for a seamless travel experience, minimizing transit times and allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the natural beauty and biodiversity of Queen Elizabeth National Park.

Domestic Flights from Entebbe to Mweya Airstrip

A domestic flight from Entebbe Airport to Mweya offers a quick and convenient way to reach one of Uganda’s premier safari destinations, located in Queen Elizabeth National Park. Here’s an overview:

Flight Overview

Departure Point: Entebbe International Airport (EBB), the main gateway to Uganda, located near Kampala Capital City of Uganda.

Destination: Mweya Airstrip, a small airport within Queen Elizabeth National Park, close to the Mweya Peninsula.

Duration: The flight typically takes about 1-2 hours, compared to 6-8 hours by road.

Airlines: Several domestic airlines operate this route, such as Aerolink Uganda, Bar Aviation, and occasionally private charter services.

Benefits of Flying to Mweya Airfield

• Time-Saving: Ideal for travelers on a tight schedule who wish to maximize their safari time.
• Scenic Views: Enjoy breathtaking aerial views of Uganda’s diverse landscapes, including Lake Victoria, the Rwenzori Mountains, and savannah plains.
• Convenience: Flying spares you from the challenges of road travel, such as rough roads or long journeys.

Safari Highlights in Mweya

1. Game Drives: Spot wildlife such as lions, elephants, buffalo, antelopes, and more.
2. Kazinga Channel Boat Safari – A highlight of the park, offering views of hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species.
3. Chimpanzee Tracking – Kyambura Gorge, located nearby, is known for its primate tracking experiences.
4. Scenic Landscapes: Mweya Peninsula offers stunning vistas of the Kazinga Channel and surrounding savannah.

Travel Tips

• Luggage: Domestic flights usually have strict luggage limits (15 kg per person, often in soft-sided bags).
• Schedules: Flights may operate on specific days, so plan and book in advance.
• Connectivity: Some flights combine stops with other airstrips, like Kasese or Kihihi Airstrip, so confirm your itinerary.
• Cost: Prices can vary depending on the airline and whether you opt for a private charter or scheduled service.

Flying to Mweya is a stress-free option that allows you to begin your safari adventure with energy and excitement!

Other Airfields in Uganda vital for Tourism and Businesses

Uganda has a network of airfields that facilitate domestic and regional air travel. These airfields play a crucial role in supporting tourism, cargo transport, and access to remote areas. Below is an overview of key airfields in Uganda:

Kajjansi Airfield

Located between Kampala and Entebbe, the Kajjansi airstrip is primarily used for domestic charter flights, flight training, and private aviation. It is an alternative for small aircraft operators.

Pakuba Airfield

Found in Murchison Falls National Park, northwestern Uganda, this facility provides access to the park, catering to tourists visiting the area.

Kasese Airfield

Found in Kasese District, near Queen Elizabeth National Park, this airstrip serves tourists visiting the park and the Rwenzori Mountains National Park.

Kidepo Airfield

Positioned in Kidepo Valley National Park, northeastern Uganda, the landing place offers access to the remote park for tourism activities in the there.

Arua Airfield

Found in Arua District in northwestern Uganda, Arua airstrip facilitates travel to the West Nile region and is essential for regional commerce.

Gulu Airfield

Situated in Gulu City of northern Uganda, the facility is a key airfield for humanitarian aid and development projects in the region.

Soroti Airfield

In the heart of Soroti District in eastern Uganda, the airfield is home to the East African Civil Aviation Academy, a significant pilot training institution.

Kabalega Airfield (Hoima)

Positioned in Hoima District, near the oil region in western Uganda, the place significantly supports oil exploration and development in the Albertine region.

Kihihi Airfield 

Located in Kihihi close to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, this facility is a key for tourists visiting the park for gorilla trekking in Buhoma Sector in the north of the park.

Kisoro Airfields

Located in Kisoro town, this airfield facilitates both business and tourists going for tour activities in both Bwindi and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park for gorilla trekking, relaxation and other holiday activities in the region.

These airfields, in addition to others, enhance connectivity within Uganda and to neighboring countries, supporting various sectors such as tourism, humanitarian aid, and trade.