Tree climbing lions
Queen Elizabeth National Park, nestled in the western region of Uganda, stands as one of the most iconic and biodiverse national parks in Africa. Spanning approximately 1,978 square kilometers, it is bordered by Lake Edward to the west and the Rwenzori Mountains to the north, providing a varied landscape that includes savannah, wetlands, and lush forests. Established in 1952, the park was named in honor of Queen Elizabeth II’s visit to Uganda and has since become a premier destination for wildlife enthusiasts, bird watchers, and nature lovers.
Top Safaris To Queen Elizabeth
3 Days Queen Elizabeth Safari
Explore the plains of Queen Elizabeth and encounter wildlife and tree climbing lions
5 Days Gorillas and Wildlife
Explore the savanna plains of Queen Elizabeth and trek through Bwindi for gorilla encounters
7 Days Primates and Wildlife
Spot the Big 5, enjoy boat cruises and trek chimps and gorillas on this Uganda advenutre
Attractions In Queen Elizabeth
Wildlife Diversity
Queen Elizabeth National Park is renowned for its remarkable wildlife diversity. The park is home to over 95 mammal species and more than 600 bird species. Notable mammals include the African elephant, lion, leopard, buffalo, and the Uganda kob. The park also features the rare and unique tree-climbing lions found in the Ishasha sector. These lions, unlike their counterparts elsewhere, have adapted to resting in the branches of fig trees, providing a spectacular sight for visitors.
Birds
For bird enthusiasts, Queen Elizabeth National Park is a veritable paradise. With over 600 recorded bird species, it ranks as one of the top bird-watching destinations in Africa. The park’s varied habitats support a wide range of birdlife, including waterbirds like the African fish eagle, shoebill stork, and lesser flamingo, as well as forest and savannah species like the grey crowned crane and black bee-eater.
Kazinga Channel
The Kazinga Channel, a 32-kilometer natural waterway connecting Lake George to Lake Edward, is one of the park’s most prominent features. This channel is teeming with life, making boat cruises a must-do activity. Visitors can expect to see large concentrations of hippos and Nile crocodiles, as well as an array of bird species. The banks of the Kazinga Channel also attract numerous animals, such as elephants, buffaloes, and various antelopes, providing excellent photographic opportunities.
Kyambura Gorge
Kyambura Gorge, also known as the “Valley of Apes,” is a dramatic ravine located on the eastern edge of the park. This lush and verdant gorge is home to a small community of chimpanzees, making it a prime destination for primate trekking. Guided walks through the gorge offer visitors the chance to observe these fascinating primates in their natural habitat, along with other wildlife such as red-tailed monkeys and a variety of bird species.
Crater Lakes
The park is dotted with numerous volcanic crater lakes, each with its own unique characteristics. Lake Katwe is famous for its traditional salt mining, where visitors can observe local communities extracting salt using age-old methods. Other crater lakes, such as Lake Nyamunuka, known as the “Lake of Youth,” are rich in wildlife and provide stunning scenic views.
Activities to do in Queen Elizabeth
Game Drives
Game drives are a staple activity in Queen Elizabeth National Park, offering visitors the chance to explore the park’s diverse habitats and observe its abundant wildlife. Early morning and late afternoon game drives are particularly rewarding, as animals are most active during these times. Experienced guides enhance the experience by sharing their knowledge of the park’s ecology and wildlife behavior.
Boat Cruises on the Kazinga Channel
Boat cruises on the Kazinga Channel are among the most popular activities in the park. These cruises provide a unique vantage point to observe wildlife and bird species up close. Hippos, crocodiles, elephants, and buffaloes are frequently seen along the channel’s banks, along with a plethora of waterbirds. The cruises typically last about two hours and offer excellent photographic opportunities.
Chimpanzee Trekking in Kyambura Gorge
Chimpanzee trekking in Kyambura Gorge offers an adventurous and immersive experience for visitors. Guided treks take participants through the dense forest of the gorge in search of chimpanzee groups. While the trek can be physically demanding, the reward of observing these intelligent primates in their natural environment is unforgettable.
Bird Watching
With its incredible avian diversity, bird watching is a major draw for visitors to Queen Elizabeth National Park. Guided birding tours are available, led by knowledgeable guides who can help identify the many species found in the park. Popular birding spots include the Kazinga Channel, Mweya Peninsula, and Maramagambo Forest.
Best time to visit Queen Elizabeth
The best time to visit Queen Elizabeth National Park largely depends on the specific activities and experiences you seek. Generally, the park can be visited year-round, but there are distinct seasons that offer different advantages.
Dry Season (June to September and December to February)
The dry season is considered the best time for wildlife viewing in Queen Elizabeth National Park. During these months, the vegetation is less dense, making it easier to spot animals. Water sources become scarce, drawing wildlife to the remaining waterholes and the Kazinga Channel, where they are more easily observed. The dry season also coincides with the best conditions for game drives and boat cruises.
Wet Season (March to May and October to November)
The wet season brings lush vegetation and abundant food resources, which can make wildlife viewing more challenging. However, this period is ideal for bird watching, as migratory bird species arrive in the park. The landscape is also beautifully green, and the wet season is generally less crowded with tourists, offering a more serene experience.
Getting There
Queen Elizabeth National Park is accessible by both road and air. The park is approximately 410 kilometers (255 miles) from Uganda’s capital, Kampala, and can be reached via a 6-7 hour drive. For those preferring to fly, there are domestic flights from Entebbe International Airport to airstrips within the park, such as the Mweya or Kasese airstrips.
Queen Elizabeth National Park is a captivating destination that offers a diverse array of attractions and activities for nature lovers and adventure seekers. From its rich wildlife and birdlife to its stunning landscapes and unique cultural experiences, the park provides an unforgettable African safari experience. Whether you visit during the dry season for optimal wildlife viewing or the wet season for bird watching and lush scenery, Queen Elizabeth National Park promises a memorable and enriching adventure.
