Queen Elizabeth National Park

Where the savanna meets the lakes, and lions climb trees

2,056

Square Kilometers

606

Bird Species

90+

Mammal Species

2

The Pearl of Uganda

Queen Elizabeth National Park covers 2,056 square kilometers of diverse ecosystems, from open savanna to wetlands, located in the shadow of the Rwenzori Mountains. The park is crossed by the equator and borders the Democratic Republic of Congo, featuring two beautiful lakes connected by the famous Kazinga Channel.

Location

Western Uganda, between Lake Edward and Lake George

Climate

Tropical with two wet seasons (March-May, Sept-Nov)

Best Time

June-September and December-February (dry seasons)

Wildlife & Biodiversity

The Big Four & Tree-Climbing Lions

Queen Elizabeth National Park is famous for its African Big Four (Elephants, Lions, Leopards, and Buffaloes) and the unique tree-climbing lions of the Ishasha sector. The park's diverse habitats support an incredible array of wildlife.

Big Game

  • African Elephants
  • Tree-climbing Lions (Ishasha)
  • Leopards
  • African Buffaloes
  • Uganda Kobs
  • Spotted Hyenas
  • Waterbucks
  • Bushbucks

Primates

  • Chimpanzees (Kyambura Gorge)
  • Blue Monkeys
  • Vervet Monkeys
  • Black & White Colobus
  • Red-tailed Monkeys
  • Olive Baboons

Birds

  • 606 Bird Species
  • Shoebill Stork
  • African Fish Eagle
  • Pied Kingfisher
  • Great White Pelican
  • Pink-backed Pelican

Adventure Activities

Game Drives

Explore the Kasenyi plains in the northern sector for incredible wildlife viewing. Morning and evening drives offer the best opportunities to spot the Big Four and other wildlife.

Morning/Evening Expert Guides 4x4 Vehicles

Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise

Experience the breathtaking boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel, famous for its massive hippo populations, crocodiles, and water birds. A photographer's paradise.

2-3 Hours Wildlife Rich Photography

Tree-Climbing Lions Safari

Venture to the Ishasha sector to search for the rare tree-climbing lions. These unique lions rest in fig trees during the day, offering incredible photo opportunities.

Unique Experience Ishasha Sector Rare Sight

Chimpanzee Trekking

Trek through the Kyambura Gorge to encounter chimpanzees in their natural habitat. This dramatic gorge offers a unique forest experience within the savanna park.

Kyambura Gorge Forest Trek 1 Hour Viewing

Bird Watching

With 606 bird species, QENP is a birder's paradise. The Maramagambo Forest and Kazinga Channel offer excellent birding opportunities throughout the year.

606 Species Year-round Expert Guides

Community Visits

Visit local communities around the park to learn about traditional cultures, crafts, and conservation efforts. Support community-based tourism initiatives.

Cultural Community Educational

Where to Stay

Mweya Safari Lodge

Luxury lodge with stunning views of the Kazinga Channel and Rwenzori Mountains.

Jacana Lodge

Intimate luxury lodge on the shores of Lake Nyamusingiri with excellent birding.

Kyambura Gorge Lodge

Eco-luxury lodge overlooking the dramatic Kyambura Gorge.

Enganzi Safari Lodge

Comfortable mid-range lodge with beautiful views and good value.

Katara Lodge

Cozy lodge with excellent location and personalized service.

Ihamba Safari Lodge

Family-friendly lodge with spacious rooms and beautiful setting.

Simba Safari Camp

Budget-friendly camping option with basic amenities and great location.

Bush Lodge Camp

Simple but clean accommodation perfect for budget-conscious travelers.

Buffalo Resort

Basic camping facilities with proceeds supporting conservation.

Getting There

By Air

Fly to Kasese airstrip with scheduled daily flights from Entebbe. Domestic airlines like Aerolink and Bar Aviation operate regular flights to the park.

1 hour from Entebbe Daily flights

By Road

From Kampala via Mbarara (420km, 6-7 hours) or via Fort Portal (410km, 6-7 hours). Well-maintained roads with scenic views throughout the journey.

6-7 hours from Kampala 4x4 recommended

Public Transport

Regular buses from Kampala to Kasese town. From Kasese, arrange private transfer to your lodge within the park.

Budget option Local experience