Queen Elizabeth National Park.

Queen Elizabeth National Park: Uganda’s Wildlife Wonderland

Introduction

Queen Elizabeth National Park (QENP) is Uganda’s most biodiverse savanna reserve, offering an unforgettable blend of wildlife, scenic landscapes, and unique safari experiences. Located in the western Rift Valley, this park is famous for its tree-climbing lions, vast elephant herds, and the Kazinga Channel boat cruise one of Africa’s most spectacular wildlife viewing experiences.

With Kwezi Adventures, explore this UNESCO Biosphere Reserve through thrilling game drives, primate encounters, and birdwatching safaris. This guide covers everything you need to know about visiting Queen Elizabeth National Park.

Why Visit Queen Elizabeth National Park?

✔ Tree-Climbing Lions (unique to Ishasha sector)
✔ Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise (hippos, crocodiles & birds galore)
✔ Kyambura Gorge Chimpanzee Trekking
✔ Over 600 Bird Species (a birder’s paradise)
✔ Diverse Ecosystems (savanna, wetlands, forests & crater lakes)

Key Attractions & Activities

1. Game Drives & Wildlife Safaris

QENP is home to 95 mammal species, including:

  • Big Four (lions, leopards, elephants, buffaloes – no rhinos)

  • Ishasha’s Tree-Climbing Lions (spotted on fig trees)

  • Ugandan Kob (the park’s signature antelope)

  • Hippos & Nile Crocodiles (along Kazinga Channel)

Best game drive routes:

  • Kasenyi Plains (prime lion territory)

  • Ishasha Sector (for tree-climbing lions)

2. Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise

A 2-hour boat trip along the 32km Kazinga Channel (connecting Lakes George & Edward) offers:
✔ Hippos & crocodiles in large numbers
✔ Elephants, buffaloes & waterbucks drinking at the shores
✔ Birdlife including African fish eagles, kingfishers & shoebills

3. Chimpanzee Trekking in Kyambura Gorge

Known as the "Valley of Apes," Kyambura Gorge is home to habituated chimpanzees.

  • Trek duration: 2-4 hours

  • Permit cost: $100 (cheaper than Bwindi gorilla trekking)

4. Birdwatching in Queen Elizabeth NP

With 600+ bird species, QENP is a top birding destination in Africa. Highlights:

  • Shoebill Stork (in Lake Albert flats)

  • Pink-backed Pelicans & African Skimmers

  • Martial Eagle & Verreaux’s Eagle-Owl

Best birding spots: Mweya Peninsula & Maramagambo Forest

5. Crater Lakes & Scenic Drives

The Katwe Explosion Craters offer breathtaking views, including:

  • Lake Katwe (salt mining site)

  • Bunyaruguru Crater Lakes (perfect for photography)

Best Time to Visit

  • Dry Season (June-August & December-February): Best for wildlife viewing.

  • Wet Season (March-May & September-November): Lush landscapes, fewer tourists.

How to Get There

  • By Road: ~6 hours from Kampala via Mbarara.

  • By Air: Charter flights to Kasese or Mweya airstrips.

Where to Stay

Luxury Lodges

  • Mweya Safari Lodge (premium Kazinga Channel views)

  • Kyambura Gorge Lodge (luxury eco-lodge)

Mid-Range Options

  • Parkview Safari Lodge

  • Ishasha Wilderness Camp

Budget-Friendly

  • Pumba Safari Cottages

  • Hippo Hill Camp

Safari Tips for Queen Elizabeth NP

✔ Morning & evening game drives are best for predator sightings.
✔ Carry binoculars for birdwatching & distant wildlife.
✔ Book chimpanzee permits in advance.

Book Your Safari with Kwezi Adventures

Kwezi Adventures offers expertly curated safaris to QENP, including:
✅ 3-Day Wildlife & Boat Cruise Safari
✅ Chimpanzee Trekking & Lion Tracking Tours
✅ Combined Gorilla & Queen Elizabeth Safaris

Contact us today to plan your ultimate Ugandan adventure.