Queen Elizabeth National Park
Straddling the equator in western Uganda, Queen Elizabeth National Park is the country’s most visited wildlife destination. Set against the dramatic backdrop of the Rwenzori Mountains and bordered by lakes Edward and George, it offers a blend of classic savannah wildlife safaris, volcanic crater lakes, lush wetlands, and scenic beauty.
The park is especially famous for its tree-climbing lions, Kazinga Channel boat safaris, and wide-ranging habitats that support over 600 bird species — one of the highest avian diversities in Africa.
Location
By road: ~6–7 hours from Kampala/Entebbe
By air: Charter flights available to Mweya Airstrip
Best Time to Visit
June – August and December – February: Dry seasons with best wildlife visibility
Rainy seasons (March–May, Sept–Nov) are lush and beautiful but may have muddy roads
Wildlife & Activities
Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise
A highlight of any visit — this natural channel connects Lake Edward and Lake George
Guaranteed sightings of hippos, Nile crocodiles, elephants, and a wide range of birds
Ideal for close-up wildlife photography
Chimpanzee Trekking – Kyambura Gorge
Known as the “Valley of Apes,” this lush gorge offers short but rewarding treks
Expect to see chimps, monkeys, and rich birdlife in a dense, forested ravine
Game Drives
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Best in Kasenyi Plains, where lions, buffaloes, and Uganda kobs dominate
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Ishasha Sector is home to the iconic tree-climbing lions
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Spotted hyenas, elephants, hippos, warthogs, leopards, and jackals also roam freely
Birdwatching Paradise
Over 600 recorded bird species
Best spots include Lake Munyanyange, Maramagambo Forest, and the Kasenyi area
Look out for: African skimmers, shoebill storks, papyrus gonolek, and kingfishers
Perfect For
Wildlife lovers looking for variety
Birdwatchers
Safari photographers
Families and first-time safari travelers
Those combining primates and big game in one circuit