Queen Elizabeth National Park

Queen Elizabeth National Park is Uganda’s most popular and diverse safari destination. Located in western Uganda, the park stretches from the foothills of the Rwenzori Mountains to the shores of Lake Edward and Lake George. Covering nearly 2,000 square kilometers, it offers an incredible mix of savannah plains, wetlands, forests, and crater lake making it a must visit destination for wildlife lovers.

Why Visit Queen Elizabeth National Park?

Queen Elizabeth National Park is known for its rich biodiversity. Its varied ecosystems allow visitors to experience multiple safari landscapes in one destination. The park is home to:

• Over 95 mammal species
• More than 600 bird species
• Large herds of elephants and buffalo
• Hippos and crocodiles along the Kazinga Channel
• The famous tree-climbing lions of Ishasha

Queen Elizabeth National Park

Top Safari Activities

1. Game Drives in Kasenyi Plains

The Kasenyi sector is famous for open savannah grasslands, making it ideal for spotting lions, Uganda kobs, elephants, buffalo, and hyenas. Early morning and late afternoon game drives provide the best wildlife viewing opportunities.

2. Boat Safari on the Kazinga Channel

A boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel is one of the park’s highlights. This natural waterway connects Lake Edward and Lake George and hosts one of Africa’s highest concentrations of hippos. It’s also one of the best photography opportunities in Uganda. During the cruise, you may see:

• Hippos bathing in large pods
• Nile crocodiles sunbathing
• Elephants and buffalo drinking at the shoreline
• Numerous water birds

3. Tree-Climbing Lions in Ishasha

The Ishasha sector, located in the southern part of the park, is famous for its rare tree climbing lions. These lions are often seen resting on fig tree branches during the heat of the day. This unique behavior makes Ishasha one of the most sought after safari experiences in Uganda.

Queen Elizabeth National Park

4. Chimpanzee Tracking in Kyambura Gorge

Kyambura Gorge, also known as the “Valley of Apes,” offers chimpanzee tracking experiences within the park. The dramatic gorge landscape adds adventure to your primate encounter.

Best Time to Visit 

Wildlife Highlights

A safari in Queen Elizabeth National Park offers diverse wildlife encounters:

• African elephants
• Lions and leopards
• Spotted hyenas
• Uganda kobs
• Warthogs
• Hippos and crocodiles
• Over 600 bird species including African fish eagles and shoebill storks

Accommodation Options

Queen Elizabeth National Park offers accommodation for every budget. Luxury safari lodges with stunning views, Mid-range tented camps, Budget-friendly lodges and campsites. Many lodges overlook the Kazinga Channel or the savannah plains, allowing guests to enjoy wildlife sightings even from their rooms.

Combining Queen Elizabeth with Other Destinations

Queen Elizabeth National Park is strategically located near other major attractions, making it easy to combine with:

• Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
• Chimpanzee trekking in Kibale National Park
• Lake Mburo National Park
• Rwenzori Mountains hiking

Many travelers opt for a multiday safari circuit in western Uganda, blending wildlife, primates, and scenic landscapes. At Jackal Adventures, we specialize in customized itineraries that connect Queen Elizabeth with Uganda’s top safari destinations.

Travel Tips

• Pack light, breathable clothing in neutral colors.
• Bring binoculars for birdwatching.
• Early morning game drives offer the best wildlife sightings.
• Book permits and accommodations in advance during peak seasons.

Final Thoughts

With careful planning and expert guidance from Jackal Adventures, your Queen Elizabeth National Park safari can be seamless, immersive, and truly extraordinary. Whether you’re spotting elephants at sunset, photographing hippos from a boat, or searching for tree climbing lions in Ishasha, this park promises adventure and unforgettable memories.