Queen Elizabeth National Park—Uganda’s Classic Safari Destination
Queen Elizabeth National Park lies in western Uganda and ranks among the country’s top wildlife destinations.
It covers 1,978 square kilometers, stretching from the Rwenzori Mountains in the north to Ishasha in the south, along Lake Edward and the Congo border.
Established in 1952, the park offers tree-climbing lions, sweeping savannahs, crater lakes, and the Kazinga Channel—home to one of Africa’s largest hippo populations.
Wildlife and Birdlife
Queen Elizabeth National Park supports over 95 mammal species and more than 600 bird species, making it a paradise for wildlife lovers and birdwatchers alike.
Visitors commonly spot elephants, buffalos, Uganda kobs, warthogs, and waterbucks. Lions and leopards are also present, especially in the Ishasha sector, where lions are famous for lounging in fig trees. Spotted hyenas, side-striped jackals, and giant forest hogs can also be seen.
Birdlife is spectacular and includes the African fish eagle, shoebill stork, grey crowned crane, pelicans, flamingos (at salt lakes), and countless other wetland and forest species.
Top Things to Do in Queen Elizabeth National Park
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Game Drives
Morning and evening game drives are available in Kasenyi Plains, Mweya Peninsula, and Ishasha. These areas offer the best chances to see predators and grazing animals.
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Boat Safari on the Kazinga Channel
This guided cruise brings you up close to hippos, crocodiles, elephants, and hundreds of birds along the 32-kilometer waterway linking Lake George and Lake Edward. It offers a dream experience for photographers.
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Tree-Climbing Lions of Ishasha
Located in the southern sector, Ishasha is unique for its population of lions that rest in fig trees, an adaptation to avoid heat and biting insects.
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Chimpanzee Tracking in Kyambura Gorge
Also known as the “Valley of Apes,” Kyambura Gorge offers a chance to track chimpanzees in a tropical rainforest setting surrounded by savannah.
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Explore the Crater Lakes
The northern part of the park features dramatic volcanic craters like Lake Katwe, famous for salt mining, and scenic viewpoints over multiple crater lakes.
Where to Stay
Queen Elizabeth National Park has accommodation options ranging from luxury lodges to budget campsites.
Popular choices include:
- Mweya Safari Lodge – offers panoramic views over the Kazinga Channel.
- Ishasha Wilderness Camp – located along the Ntungwe River, perfect for lion sightings.
- Engiri Game Lodge, Simba Safari Camp, and Park View Safari Lodge – good mid-range and budget options.
Most lodges organize game drives, boat cruises, and cultural excursions.
Getting There
Queen Elizabeth National Park is about 6 hours’ drive from Kampala or 2 hours from Fort Portal.
You can easily access the park from Bwindi, making it perfect for combining gorilla trekking with a safari.
Chartered flights are available to Mweya or Kasese airstrips from Entebbe and Kajjansi.
Best Time to Visit
The park is open year-round, but the dry seasons from June to August and December to February offer the best wildlife viewing. Roads and trails are more accessible during these months, and animals gather around water sources.
Why Visit Queen Elizabeth National Park
Queen Elizabeth National Park is a classic African safari experience. It combines savannah, forest, wetlands, and lakes, offering unmatched biodiversity and adventure. Whether you want to photograph hippos on the Kazinga Channel, watch lions in fig trees, or track chimpanzees, this park delivers unforgettable moments.
