National Parks | Uganda

Queen Elizabeth National Park

Game drive
Walking safaris
Boat safaris
Big game
Game drive
Walking safaris
Boat safaris
Big game

Everything you need to know:

Queen Elizabeth National Park is a renowned reserve in Uganda that stands out with one of the highest biodiversity ratings worldwide. Thanks to its diverse range of remarkable large mammals, primates, and a vast collection of over 600 bird species, it has become a popular destination for nature lovers and tourists alike. Additionally, the area’s lush watering pools along the Kazinga Channel, plus the park’s impressive 700 square miles of grassy savannah and tropical forest, provide a picturesque landscape that visitors can enjoy. 

Where is the park located?

Queen Elizabeth National Park is situated in western Uganda, near the beautiful Rwenzori Mountain range, north of the Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. It is bifurcated into two regions – north and south. While the north offers a broad range of lodging options and lodges, the south, including the Ishasha Sector, is more remote and has limited accommodation options. 

The park boasts unique tree-climbing lions, making it a popular tourist attraction. Visitors will be pleased to know that the park provides a wonderful opportunity to witness magnificent wildlife and explore the beautiful African savannah. There are plenty of activities to enjoy in the park, making it an unforgettable experience.

About the park

What type of wildlife will we see?

The Queen Elizabeth National Park boasts a plethora of landscapes, ranging from swamps and wetlands to tropical forests and open savannas, which provide habitats for a diverse array of wildlife. 

Among the park’s notable residents are four of the Big Five game species, including lion, elephant, and leopard, as well as impressive herds of buffalo. Furthermore, the park is renowned for being home to the unique tree-climbing lions situated in the Ishaba region and the world’s largest concentration of hippos.

 Queen Elizabeth National Park also hosts a variety of primates, such as the chimpanzees and the black and white colobus monkey, jackal, hyena, and a broad range of antelope. Additionally, birdwatchers will surely appreciate the park’s collection of over 610 bird species.

Top experiences to enjoy at Queen Elizabeth National Park

Queen Elizabeth National Park offers visitors three ways to view its abundant wildlife: by boat, on an open-air safari vehicle, or on foot. Those who opt for a walking safari through Kyambura Gorge will be rewarded with the lush colors of the flora, sighting rare birds, and playful primates.

 For those seeking a more thrilling adventure, the 4×4 safari will take you within close range of massive elephant herds, antelopes, leopards, and buffalo. If you’re lucky, you may even catch a glimpse of a lion pride napping in trees. The park’s picturesque river cruises are perfect for spotting one of the world’s largest hippo populations, as well as crocodiles and other large mammals lounging on the shorelines.

When to visit Queen Elizabeth National Park

Uganda’s proximity to the Equator makes it an ideal destination throughout the year. For optimal wildlife viewing and easier chimpanzee tracking in Queen Elizabeth National Park, it is recommended to plan your visit during the dry season, which falls between June and August, as well as January and February. 

During the rainy season, from March to May and September to December, the landscape is vibrant and green, allowing for the spotting of many migratory bird species. However, visitors should be aware that some roads may be inaccessible due to heavy rainfall, and forest trails may become slippery. 

Overall, Queen Elizabeth National Park is a remarkable destination that can be enjoyed year-round with proper planning.

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