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Queen Elizabeth National Park

Royal Haven

Nestled in the heart of Uganda’s Western Rift Valley, Queen Elizabeth National Park (QENP) is a biodiversity hotspot and one of the country’s most visited safari destinations. Spanning 1,978 square kilometers across the districts of Kasese, Kamwenge, Rubirizi, and Rukungiri, this UNESCO Biosphere Reserve is famed for its tree-climbing lions, abundant wildlife, and stunning landscapes. Stretching between Lake Edward and Lake George, connected by the 40km Kazinga Channel, QENP boasts diverse ecosystems—savanna grasslands, tropical forests, wetlands, and volcanic crater lakes. Home to 95 mammal species, over 600 bird species, and unique attractions like the Ishasha sector’s lions and Kyambura Gorge’s chimpanzees, the park offers an unforgettable adventure. This guide covers everything you need to plan your visit, from game drives and boat safaris to dining and conservation efforts, ensuring a seamless journey into Uganda’s wild heart.

Queen Elizabeth National Park

Royal Haven

Nestled in the heart of Uganda’s Western Rift Valley, Queen Elizabeth National Park (QENP) is a biodiversity hotspot and one of the country’s most visited safari destinations. Spanning 1,978 square kilometers across the districts of Kasese, Kamwenge, Rubirizi, and Rukungiri, this UNESCO Biosphere Reserve is famed for its tree-climbing lions, abundant wildlife, and stunning landscapes. Stretching between Lake Edward and Lake George, connected by the 40km Kazinga Channel, QENP boasts diverse ecosystems—savanna grasslands, tropical forests, wetlands, and volcanic crater lakes. Home to 95 mammal species, over 600 bird species, and unique attractions like the Ishasha sector’s lions and Kyambura Gorge’s chimpanzees, the park offers an unforgettable adventure. This guide covers everything you need to plan your visit, from game drives and boat safaris to dining and conservation efforts, ensuring a seamless journey into Uganda’s wild heart.

QUEEN ELIZABETH's Attractions and Activities

GAME DRIVES

Game drives in QENP are a highlight, offering sightings of four of the Big Five—lions, leopards, elephants, and buffalo—along with hippos, hyenas, and antelopes like Uganda kob. The Kasenyi Plains are ideal for spotting predators, while the Ishasha sector in the south is renowned for tree-climbing lions lounging in fig trees. Morning and late afternoon drives, led by expert guides, maximize wildlife encounters. Night drives reveal nocturnal species like leopards and civets. Costs start at $20-$50 per person, depending on the operator.

Boat Safaris on the Kazinga Channel

A boat safari along the Kazinga Channel is a must, showcasing hippos, crocodiles, elephants, and waterbirds like African fish eagles and kingfishers. The 2-3 hour cruise from Mweya Peninsula offers stunning views of the channel’s banks, teeming with wildlife. Public boats cost $30 per person; private charters are available for $150-$300. Sunset cruises add a magical touch.

Chimpanzee Trekking in Kyambura Gorge

The lush Kyambura Gorge, a 100m-deep forested ravine, is home to habituated chimpanzees. Guided treks, costing $50 per person, take 2-4 hours and offer a 70-80% chance of sightings, though less predictable than Kibale Forest. The gorge also hosts vervet monkeys and olive baboons, making it a primate lover’s delight. Book permits through the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA).

Bird Watching

With 619 bird species—the second-highest of any African park—QENP is a birder’s paradise. Spot flamingos on crater lakes, shoebill storks in wetlands, and rare species like the white-tailed lark. Key birding areas include Maramagambo Forest and the Kazinga Channel. Guided birding tours ($30-$100) enhance sightings, especially during the wet season (March-May, October-November) when migratory birds arrive.

Nature Walks and Hiking

Explore QENP’s trails for intimate wildlife encounters. The Maramagambo Forest trails lead to bat caves and crater lakes, while the Mweya Peninsula offers scenic walks with views of Lake Edward. Guided nature walks ($10-$30) reveal smaller creatures like butterflies and mongooses. The Katwe Explosion Crater drive showcases volcanic landscapes and salt mining at Lake Katwe.

Lion Tracking Experience

Join researchers from the Uganda Carnivore Program for a lion-tracking adventure in the Ishasha or Kasenyi sectors. Using radio collars, this 3-4 hour experience ($100 per person) offers close-up views of lions and insights into conservation. Proceeds support carnivore protection, making it a meaningful activity.

Cultural Experiences

Visit local communities like the Kikorongo Cultural Group or Katwe salt miners to learn about traditional livelihoods. The Leopard Village near Ishasha offers performances and crafts, supporting conservation through tourism. Cultural tours ($10-$20) provide authentic interactions and support community development.

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How to Get to Queen Elizabeth National Park

QENP is accessible by air or road, with options for various travel preferences.

  • By Air: Daily flights from Entebbe International Airport to Mweya, Kihihi, or Kasese airstrips take 1-1.5 hours, followed by a short drive to your lodge. Operators like Aerolink Uganda offer scheduled flights ($200-$400 one-way).

  • By Road: From Kampala, the 400km drive takes 6-7 hours via Mbarara (Fort Portal route is longer, 8-9 hours). From Kigali, Rwanda, it’s 5-6 hours via the Katuna border. A 4x4 vehicle is recommended, especially in wet seasons. Tour operators provide transfers for $100-$300.

  • Visa Requirements: Uganda visas ($50) are available online or on arrival. The $100 East African Tourist Visa covers Uganda, Rwanda, and Kenya.

  • Park Gates: Main entry points include Mweya (north), Ishasha (south), and Katunguru (central), with lodges clustered near Mweya and Ishasha.

BEST TIME TO VISIT

QENP is open year-round, with distinct seasons affecting wildlife viewing.

  • Dry Seasons (June-September, December-February): Ideal for game drives and boat safaris, with animals congregating around water sources. Clear skies and dry tracks enhance visibility. Book 3-6 months in advance for peak season.

  • Wet Seasons (March-May, October-November): Lush landscapes and fewer crowds, perfect for birdwatching due to migratory species. Trails can be muddy, but discounts on lodging are common.

Temperatures range from 18-30°C (64-86°F), with cooler mornings and evenings. Pack for both sun and rain.

Park Fees and Permits

Entry and activity fees are regulated by UWA.

  • Park Entrance: $40/day for foreign non-residents, $30 for residents, UGX 20,000 (~$5) for East African citizens.

  • Chimpanzee Trekking: $50 per person.

  • Lion Tracking: $100 per person.

  • Boat Safari: $30 per person (public boat).

  • Game Drives: Vehicle entry $20-$40; guide fees $20-$50.

  • Booking: Pay fees at park gates or through UWA/tour operators. Book chimpanzee permits and lion tracking 1-3 months in advance.

Contact UWA at reservations@ugandawildlife.org for bookings.

WHERE TO STAY

QENP offers diverse accommodations near Mweya and Ishasha sectors.

  • Luxury: Mweya Safari Lodge (Mweya) offers stunning Kazinga Channel views and a pool. Ishasha Wilderness Camp (Ishasha) provides eco-luxury tents near tree-climbing lions. Kyambura Gorge Lodge offers upscale comfort near the gorge.

  • Mid-Range: Enganzi Game Lodge (Mweya) and Ishasha Jungle Lodge provide cozy rooms with park views at moderate prices.

  • Budget: Pumba Safari Cottages (Mweya) and Simba Safari Camp offer simple rooms or camping options.

  • Camping: Public campsites at Mweya and Ishasha cost $5-$10 per person, with basic facilities.

Book early for peak seasons. Most lodges include meals, Wi-Fi, and game drive transfers.

DINING AT QUEEN ELIZABETH

Dining in QENP blends Ugandan staples with international cuisine, often enjoyed with park views. Savor matoke (steamed bananas), luwombo (stew in banana leaves), and nyama choma (grilled meat), paired with local vegetables like nakati greens. Lodges like Mweya Safari Lodge serve farm-fresh dishes, incorporating tilapia from Lake Edward or coffee from nearby farms. Try rolex (egg and chapati roll) at budget camps like Pumba Cottages for a taste of Ugandan street food. Coffee tastings, featuring beans from the Kasese region, are popular at upscale lodges. Most accommodations cater to vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free diets with advance notice, ensuring a delightful culinary experience amidst the savanna.

Packing List & Preparation

Prepare for a comfortable safari with the right gear.

  • Clothing: Lightweight long-sleeved shirts, trousers, hat, sunglasses, rain jacket, and sturdy walking shoes. Neutral colors (khaki, green) blend with the environment.

  • Gear: Binoculars, camera (zoom lens for wildlife), insect repellent, sunscreen, reusable water bottle, daypack.

  • Health: Yellow fever vaccination (required), malaria prophylaxis, personal medications, first aid kit. Light fitness is sufficient for most activities.

  • Other: Cash (USD/UGX) for tips ($5-$15 for guides), souvenirs, park fees, passport, booking confirmations.

A guide or driver enhances game drives; tip generously for excellent service.

Safety & Conservation

QENP is safe with established protocols.

  • Safety: Armed rangers accompany treks and patrols ensure security. Follow guide instructions during activities to avoid wildlife risks.

  • Wildlife Health: Keep a 7m distance from animals, avoid feeding, and don’t trek if ill to protect chimpanzees.

  • Conservation: Park fees support anti-poaching and lion conservation, with QENP designated a “lion conservation unit” by the IUCN. Community projects like the Uganda Carnivore Program benefit from tourism. Avoid littering to preserve ecosystems.

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FAQ

What is the best time to visit QENP?

Dry seasons (June-September, December-February) for wildlife viewing; wet seasons (March-May, October-November) for birding.

How much are park fees?

Entry is $40/day for non-residents; chimpanzee trekking $50; lion tracking $100.

Is QENP safe?

Yes, with armed rangers and strict safety measures.

Can I see the Big Five?

Four of the Big Five (no rhinos); lions, leopards, elephants, and buffalo are common.

Are children allowed on activities?

Chimpanzee trekking requires age 12+; game drives and boat safaris are family-friendly.

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