For clients wanting a classic savannah safari. It boasts a stunning variety of wildlife including tree-climbing lions, elephants, and over 600 bird species. A boat cruise on the Kazinga channel: Uganda’s Premier Wildlife Safari Destination
Queen Elizabeth National Park
Located in western Uganda, Queen Elizabeth National Park is the country’s most popular and diverse wildlife destination. Covering nearly 2,000 square kilometers, the park is renowned for its incredible biodiversity, spectacular landscapes, abundant wildlife, and unforgettable safari experiences.
From tree-climbing lions and massive elephant herds to boat cruises on the Kazinga Channel and chimpanzee trekking in Kyambura Gorge, Queen Elizabeth National Park offers visitors one of Africa’s most rewarding safari adventures.
Where is Queen Elizabeth National Park Located?
Queen Elizabeth National Park is situated in western Uganda between Lake George and Lake Edward, approximately 6–7 hours by road from Entebbe or Kampala.
The park borders the Democratic Republic of Congo and lies at the base of the majestic Rwenzori Mountains, creating some of the most breathtaking scenery in East Africa.
Why Visit Queen Elizabeth National Park?
Queen Elizabeth National Park is famous for its exceptional variety of habitats including:
- Open savannah grasslands
- Crater lakes
- Tropical forests
- Wetlands
- Riverine ecosystems
This diversity supports an incredible range of wildlife and makes the park one of the best safari destinations in Uganda.
Wildlife in Queen Elizabeth National Park
The park is home to more than 95 mammal species and over 600 bird species.
Visitors have opportunities to see: Lions, Leopards, Elephants, Buffaloes, Hippos, Hyenas, Uganda Kob, Warthogs, Waterbucks, Giant Forest Hogs
The park is also one of the best places in Uganda for birdwatching.
The Famous Tree-Climbing Lions of Ishasha
One of the most unique attractions in Queen Elizabeth National Park is the famous tree-climbing lions found in the Ishasha Sector.
Unlike most lions, these remarkable predators are often seen resting in large fig trees during the heat of the day. The Ishasha tree-climbing lions are among the few lion populations in Africa known for this behavior, making them a major highlight for visitors.
Game Drives in Queen Elizabeth National Park
Game drives are among the most popular activities in the park.
Kasenyi Plains
The Kasenyi Plains offer excellent opportunities to spot:
- Lions
- Uganda Kob
- Elephants
- Buffaloes
- Warthogs
Early morning game drives provide the best chance of seeing predators in action.
Ishasha Sector
Known for:
- Tree-climbing lions
- Scenic landscapes
- Large herds of buffaloes and elephants
Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise
A boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel is one of the most rewarding wildlife experiences in Uganda.
The Kazinga Channel connects Lake George and Lake Edward and attracts enormous concentrations of wildlife.
During the cruise, visitors commonly see:
- Hundreds of hippos
- Nile crocodiles
- Elephants
- Buffaloes
- Water birds
The boat cruise also provides exceptional photography opportunities.
Chimpanzee Trekking in Kyambura Gorge
Often referred to as the “Valley of Apes,” Kyambura Gorge offers visitors the chance to track wild chimpanzees in a spectacular underground rainforest hidden within the savannah.
The dramatic scenery and unique ecosystem make Kyambura Gorge one of Uganda’s most fascinating chimpanzee trekking destinations.
Crater Lakes and Scenic Landscapes
Queen Elizabeth National Park boasts some of Uganda’s most beautiful scenery.
Visitors can explore:
- Explosion crater lakes
- Panoramic viewpoints
- Rolling hills
- The Rift Valley escarpment
The Twin Lakes viewpoint near Kyambura offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Best Time to Visit Queen Elizabeth National Park
The park can be visited throughout the year.
The best months for wildlife viewing are:
- June to August
- December to February
These drier months generally provide better road conditions and easier wildlife viewing.
Accommodation in Queen Elizabeth National Park
The park offers accommodation options for every budget.
Luxury Lodges
- Mweya Safari Lodge
- Elephant Plains Lodge
- Kyambura Gorge Lodge
Mid-Range Lodges
- Enshama Game Lodge
- Buffalo Safari Lodge
- Twin Lakes Safari Lodge
Budget Options
- Lights of kazinga homestay
- Bush Lodge
- Tembo Safari Lodge
How to Get to there
Visitors can access the park by:
Road Transfer
A scenic drive from Entebbe or Kampala through western Uganda.
Domestic Flights
Scheduled flights operate from Entebbe to nearby airstrips including Mweya and Kasese.
Why Book Your Safari with Gorillas In Paradise Safaris?
At Gorillas In Paradise Safaris, we provide unforgettable wildlife experiences led by knowledgeable local guides who know the park intimately.
Our safaris combine:
- Game drives
- Boat cruises
- Chimpanzee trekking
- Cultural experiences
- Personalized service
Every safari also contributes to community development initiatives that support vulnerable children and local families in western Uganda.
Plan Your Safari
Whether you’re searching for lions, elephants, chimpanzees, hippos, or spectacular landscapes, Queen Elizabeth National Park offers one of the most rewarding safari experiences in Africa.
Contact Gorillas In Paradise Safaris today and start planning your unforgettable Uganda wildlife adventure.azinga Channel is a major highlight.
