Queen Elizabeth National Park

Overview

Queen Elizabeth National Park is Uganda’s most popular safari destination, celebrated for its incredible diversity of landscapes and wildlife. Covering 1,978 square kilometers, it stretches from Lake George in the northeast to Lake Edward in the southwest, with the Kazinga Channel connecting the two. The park is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, known for its savannahs, wetlands, crater lakes, and lush forests. With over 95 mammal species and 600+ bird species, it is Uganda’s most biodiverse park.

Why Visit Queen Elizabeth National Park?

• Tree-Climbing Lions – The famous lions of Ishasha, often seen lounging in fig trees.

• Kazinga Channel Boat Safari – A unique cruise where you’ll spot hippos, elephants, buffalo, crocodiles, and countless birds.

• Diverse Wildlife – Home to elephants, buffalo, leopards, hyenas, Uganda kob, and primates in Kyambura Gorge.

• Birdwatching Paradise – With over 600 species, it’s a must-visit for bird lovers.

• Scenic Crater Lakes – Explore dramatic volcanic craters and panoramic viewpoints.

• Proximity to Bwindi – A perfect stopover en route to gorilla trekking.

Location

Queen Elizabeth National Park lies in western Uganda, straddling the equator. It borders the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and sits within the Great Rift Valley.

• Distance from Kampala/Entebbe: ~400 km, a 6–7-hour drive by road.

• Nearest Towns: Kasese and Bushenyi.

When to Visit

• Best Time: June to September and January to February (dry seasons) – wildlife gathers around water sources.

• Rainy Seasons: March–May and October–November – the park is lush and beautiful, with excellent birdwatching. Roads may be slippery, but sightings remain rewarding.

How to Get There

• By Road: 6–7 hours from Kampala; most itineraries include stops at Lake Mburo or Fort Portal.

• By Air: Domestic flights from Entebbe to Kasese or Mweya Airstrips.

Popular Attractions & Activities

• Game Drives: Explore Kasenyi Plains, Ishasha Sector, and Mweya Peninsula for diverse wildlife.

• Kazinga Channel Boat Safari: A highlight of the park, offering some of the best wildlife photography opportunities.

• Ishasha Tree-Climbing Lions: A unique sight rarely seen elsewhere in Africa.

• Kyambura Gorge (Chimpanzee Trekking): Trek through a “valley of apes” for a chance to see chimpanzees in the wild.

• Crater Lakes Exploration: Visit the Katwe Salt Lake and other volcanic craters with stunning viewpoints.

• Cultural Encounters: Meet local communities, explore salt mining traditions, and enjoy traditional performances.

Accommodation Options

• Luxury Lodges:

  • Mweya Safari Lodge

  • Kyambura Gorge Lodge

  • Ishasha Wilderness Camp

• Mid-range Options:

  • Enganzi Game Lodge

  • Ihamba Lakeside Safari Lodge

  • Elephant Plains Lodge

• Budget & Community Stays:

  • Pumba Safari Cottages

  • Simba Safari Camp

  • Community-run campsites near Katwe and Kyambura.

Travel Tips

• Park Fees: Paid through the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA).

• Tree-Climbing Lions: The Ishasha sector requires a separate game drive; plan extra time.

• Pack Binoculars: Birdlife is abundant and diverse.

• Weather Prep: Carry a light rain jacket and sturdy shoes, especially in wet months.

• Combine With: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (for gorilla trekking) or Kibale National Park (for chimpanzees).