🐘 Queen Elizabeth National Park – Uganda’s Most Popular Safari Park
Overview
Located in southwestern Uganda, Queen Elizabeth National Park is Uganda’s most visited park and one of the most diverse in East Africa. It stretches from the Rwenzori Mountains down to the shores of Lake Edward, covering savannahs, wetlands, forests, and crater lakes. It’s a perfect destination for travelers looking to experience wildlife, scenery, and culture in one place.
🐾 Wildlife & Attractions
Queen Elizabeth is home to over 95 mammal species and 600+ bird species, making it a top spot for both game drives and birdwatching.
Highlights include:
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Lions, including the famous tree-climbing lions in the Ishasha Sector
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Elephants, buffaloes, hippos, and warthogs
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Leopards and hyenas (more active in early morning and evening)
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Uganda kobs, waterbucks, and giant forest hogs
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Chimpanzees in Kyambura Gorge, a tropical forest deep within the savannah
🚤 Main Activities
1. Game Drives
Explore the Kasenyi Plains or Ishasha Sector for excellent wildlife sightings. Early mornings are best for predators and big herds.
2. Boat Safari on the Kazinga Channel
One of the park’s top highlights. Cruise along the natural channel that connects Lake Edward and Lake George. You’ll see large groups of hippos, crocodiles, elephants drinking, buffaloes, and many bird species — all from the comfort of a boat.
3. Chimpanzee Tracking in Kyambura Gorge
Walk through the “Valley of Apes,” a lush underground forest home to chimpanzees and other primates.
4. Bird Watching
With over 600 bird species, including the African fish eagle, shoebill, pelicans, and flamingos, Queen Elizabeth is a paradise for birders.
5. Crater Lakes Exploration
The northern part of the park is dotted with beautiful crater lakes, some with salt mining communities, and scenic viewpoints.
🏞️ Landscapes
From savannah plains to explosive crater lakes, papyrus swamps, and lush forests, the park offers stunning scenery and varied habitats. On clear days, the snow-capped Rwenzori Mountains form a dramatic backdrop to the west.
Cultural Encounters
Visit local communities near the park to experience traditional music, dance, crafts, and stories. Engage in activities like salt mining at Lake Katwe or learn about conservation at community-run tourism centers.
Best Time to Visit
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Dry Season (June–Sept & Dec–Feb): Best for game viewing and boat cruises
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Wet Season (March–May & Oct–Nov): Great for birdwatching and lush scenery, but some roads may be muddy
Getting There
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By Road: About 6–7 hours from Kampala via Mbarara
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By Air: Charter flights available to Mweya Airstrip
Why Choose Queen Elizabeth?
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Great for first-time safari travelers
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Wide variety of wildlife and activities
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Famous tree-climbing lions in Ishasha
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Easily combined with gorilla trekking in Bwindi or chimp trekking in Kibale
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Beautiful landscapes, crater lakes, and the Kazinga Channel