Queen Elizabeth National Park, located in southwestern Uganda, is one of the country’s most iconic and biodiverse conservation areas. Spanning approximately 1,978 square kilometers, the park is renowned for its diverse landscapes, which range from sprawling savannahs and lush forests to shimmering lakes and fertile wetlands.

The park is home to an incredible variety of wildlife, including over 95 mammal species and more than 600 bird species, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers. Among its most famous residents are the tree-climbing lions of the Ishasha sector, which are a rare and fascinating sight. Elephants, buffalo, hippos, and antelopes are also commonly seen, alongside more elusive creatures like leopards and chimpanzees.

The Kazinga Channel, a natural waterway connecting Lake Edward and Lake George, is one of the park’s main attractions. This channel hosts one of the world’s largest concentrations of hippos and crocodiles, and boat safaris here offer close encounters with these animals, as well as a variety of birdlife.

Queen Elizabeth National Park also offers cultural experiences, with opportunities to visit local communities and learn about the traditional ways of life. Its stunning scenery, rich wildlife, and cultural significance make it a must-visit destination in Uganda.

Some of the Luxury Lodges in Queen Elizabeth National Park

Mweya Safari Lodge: Positioned on a peninsula, Mweya Safari Lodge offers stunning views of the Kazinga Channel and the Rwenzori Mountains. Guests can enjoy luxurious rooms, suites, and family cottages, all featuring en-suite facilities, mini-bars, and private balconies. The lodge also includes a restaurant, bar, swimming pool, spa, and a business center.

Kyambura Gorge Lodge: Located on the edge of the Kyambura Gorge, this lodge offers eight luxurious bandas, each with a private balcony and en-suite bathroom. The lodge features a swimming pool, dining area, bar, and complimentary Wi-Fi, with activities like chimpanzee trekking and game drives available.

Ishasha Wilderness Camp: Situated along the Ntungwe River in the park’s southern section, this camp is known for its encounters with tree-climbing lions. It offers ten luxury tents, each with an en-suite bathroom, private veranda, hot bush showers, and eco-friendly toilets. Guests can enjoy a restaurant, bar, and expert-led wildlife excursions.

Katara Lodge: Perched atop the Great Rift Valley escarpment, Katara Lodge provides eight thatched cottages with panoramic views of the savannah and Lake Edward. Each cottage features a private veranda, en-suite bathroom, and an option for open-air sleeping. Amenities include a swimming pool, bar, and restaurant.

Jacana Safari Lodge: Nestled near a crater lake, Jacana Safari Lodge offers a treehouse-like experience with ten chalets and a family cottage, all equipped with en-suite bathrooms and private terraces. Facilities include a swimming pool, sauna, dining area, and bar.

Elephant Plains Lodge: Overlooking the western edge of the Albertine Rift, this lodge features six spacious double/twin cottages and two family cottages, each with large private verandas. Guests can enjoy sweeping views of the Kasenyi plains and Lake George.

Ihamba Safari Lodge: Constructed with stone and thatch, Ihamba Lodge offers stunning views of the Rwenzori Mountains. The lodge includes a swimming pool, restaurant, bar, and internet services for a comfortable and scenic stay.

Mazike Valley Lodge: Near Kyambura Gorge, Mazike Valley Lodge features eight secluded cottages built with local materials to blend with the environment. The lodge offers a swimming pool, bar, and restaurant, providing a serene and exclusive retreat.

Things to Do in Queen Elizabeth National Park

Queen Elizabeth National Park is a premier destination in Uganda, offering a wide range of activities that cater to nature lovers, adventure seekers, and those interested in cultural experiences. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the top things to do in the park.

1. Game Drives

One of the most popular activities in Queen Elizabeth National Park is the game drive. The park is divided into different sectors, each offering unique wildlife viewing opportunities. The Kasenyi Plains, known for large herds of Uganda kob, are a prime location for spotting lions, leopards, elephants, and buffalo. The Ishasha sector is famous for its tree-climbing lions, which are a rare sight and a highlight for many visitors. Game drives can be done in the early morning or late afternoon when the animals are most active.

2. Boat Safaris on the Kazinga Channel

A boat safari on the Kazinga Channel is a must-do activity. The channel, which connects Lake Edward and Lake George, is home to one of the highest concentrations of hippos in the world. During the boat ride, you’ll also see large Nile crocodiles, herds of elephants, and buffaloes drinking at the water’s edge. Birdwatchers will be delighted by the abundance of bird species, including pelicans, cormorants, kingfishers, and African fish eagles. The boat safari provides a unique perspective on the park’s wildlife and is an excellent way to experience the aquatic environment.

3. Chimpanzee Tracking in Kyambura Gorge

For those interested in primates, chimpanzee tracking in Kyambura Gorge offers an exciting and immersive experience. Known as the “Valley of Apes,” Kyambura Gorge is a lush, forested area where you can track chimpanzees in their natural habitat. Accompanied by expert guides, you’ll trek through the dense forest, listening for the calls of the chimps and observing their behavior up close. The trek also offers opportunities to see other primates, birds, and unique plant species.

4. Exploring the Maramagambo Forest

Maramagambo Forest is a large tropical rainforest located in the southern part of the park. It’s a haven for birdwatchers, with numerous species including the African emerald cuckoo, black bee-eater, and Rwenzori turaco. The forest is also home to various primates, such as the red-tailed monkey and vervet monkey. A popular attraction within the forest is the Bat Cave, where thousands of bats can be observed, often accompanied by pythons that prey on them. Walking trails through the forest allow visitors to explore this rich ecosystem at their own pace.

5. Visiting the Katwe Salt Lake

Katwe Salt Lake, located within the park, offers a unique cultural experience. For centuries, the local community has mined salt from this lake using traditional methods. A visit to Katwe gives you the chance to learn about the salt extraction process and the history of salt trading in the region.