Queen Elizabeth National Park

Queen Elizabeth National Park Uganda – Home of Tree-Climbing Lions

Queen Elizabeth National Park, located in the western region of Uganda, is among the most renowned and diverse ecosystems in Africa. Sprawling over an area of about 1,978 square kilometers, the park includes a remarkable variety of ecosystems, from savanna to forested areas, and from wetlands to lakes. It is named after Queen Elizabeth II and was established in 1952. The park’s biodiversity is unparalleled, with its vast landscapes home to numerous species of wildlife, making it a prime destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.

Activities in Queen Elizabeth National Park

Wildlife Safaris

Queen Elizabeth National Park is famed for its wildlife, including four of the Big Five: lions, leopards, elephants, and buffalo. The park’s diverse landscapes provide habitats for different animal species, making game drives exciting with abundant opportunities to witness animals in their natural surroundings. The Kasenyi Plains are particularly famous for lion tracking, and the unique tree-climbing lions are often spotted in the Ishasha sector.

Bird Watching

With over 600 bird species, Queen Elizabeth National Park is one of the best birding destinations in Africa. Enthusiasts can look forward to spotting a range of waterfowl, raptors, and migratory birds. Notable species include the African skimmer, Pink-backed pelicans, and the rare Shoebill stork. Birding can be enjoyed on game drives, boat trips, or special guided walks.

Kazinga Channel Boat Trips

The Kazinga Channel, a natural channel between Lake Edward and Lake George, is the setting for one of the park’s highlight experiences – a boat cruise. These trips offer an intimate view of the wildlife that comes to the water’s edge to drink and bathe. It is also an excellent vantage point for bird watching, with the possibility of seeing large numbers of hippos and Nile crocodiles.

Chimpanzee Trekking

In the Kyambura Gorge, an underground forest tucked within the park, visitors can trek to see chimpanzees in their natural habitat. The gorge offers a dramatic landscape and the opportunity to observe these primates as they go about their daily lives, adding a profound depth to the safari experience.

You can also track for chimpanzees at the Kalinzu Forest Game Reserve.

Cultural Encounters

Visitors to Queen Elizabeth National Park can also engage with local communities. Cultural performances, craft markets, and village walks are available to tourists who wish to experience the local culture. These interactions provide insight into the traditional lifestyles and customs of the communities surrounding the park.

Accommodation Options Queen Elizabeth National Park

Luxury Lodges

-Mweya Safari Lodge: Positioned on a peninsula within the heart of the park, Mweya Safari Lodge offers luxury accommodation with sweeping views of the Kazinga Channel. It provides guests with amenities like a swimming pool, a luxury spa, and private balconies overlooking the channel.

Mid-range Options

–Bush Lodge: Located close to the Kazinga Channel, this lodge offers eco-friendly bandas with a perfect blend of comfort and rustic charm. It’s an excellent choice for those who prefer to stay closer to nature while enjoying modern conveniences.

Budget Accommodations

Simba Safari Camp: For budget travelers, Simba Safari Camp offers an affordable yet comfortable stay. It provides various accommodation options, including family cottages, dormitory rooms, and traditional safari tents.

How to Get There?

Queen Elizabeth National Park is well-connected and accessible by both road and air.

By Road

The park is approximately 400 kilometers (about 250 miles) southwest of Kampala. The journey by car typically takes between 6 to 8 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.

Via Mbarara: This route passes through Kampala-Masaka-Mbarara towns, covering a distance of about 420 kilometers. It’s a popular choice for travelers heading to Queen Elizabeth National Park.
Via Fort Portal: This northern route goes through Kmapala -Mityana-Mubende-Fort Portal, covering approximately 410 kilometers. It’s ideal for those planning to visit the northern sectors of the park.

Both routes offer scenic views and opportunities to explore other attractions along the way. Additionally, the park can be accessed from Bwindi Impenetrable National Park via the Ishasha sector, which is about a 7 to 8-hour drive.

By Air

For a quicker journey, domestic flights are available from Entebbe International Airport to airstrips near the park:

Kasese Airstrip: Located near the northern part of the park, it’s suitable for accessing areas like Mweya and the Kasenyi Plains.
Mweya Airstrip: Situated within the park, it’s convenient for visitors staying at Mweya Safari Lodge and nearby accommodations.
Ishasha Airstrip: Ideal for travelers heading to the southern Ishasha sector, known for its tree-climbing lions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What wildlife can I expect to see in Queen Elizabeth National Park?

The park boasts a rich diversity of wildlife, including elephants, lions (notably the tree-climbing lions in the Ishasha sector), leopards, buffaloes, hippos, antelopes and over 600 bird species like flamingos.

2. Is chimpanzee trekking available in the park?

Yes, chimpanzee trekking is offered in the Kyambura Gorge and Kalinzu Forest Reserve. Kyambura Gorge is located on the eastern side of the park. Visitors can track habituated chimpanzee groups in this lush forested area.

Kalinzu Forest Reserve is easily accessible by road, approximately 375 kilometers from Kampala. It’s situated along the Mbarara–Kasese highway, making it a convenient stop for travelers visiting Queen Elizabeth National Park. The reserve’s proximity to the Queen Elizabteth National Park allows for combined wildlife and primate viewing experiences

3. When is the best time to visit the park?

The park is open year-round, but the dry seasons (January to February and June to July) are ideal for wildlife viewing and game drives. The wet seasons (March to May and August to December) offer lush landscapes and are excellent for birdwatching.

4. Are there accommodation options within the park?

Yes, the park offers a range of accommodations, from luxury lodges like Mweya Safari Lodge to budget-friendly options like Simba Safari Camp. Staying within or near the park allows for early morning game drives and boat cruises.

The park is generally safe for tourists. However, it’s essential to follow park guidelines, stay within designated areas, and be accompanied by a guide during activities. The Uganda Wildlife Authority ensures the safety of visitors through regular patrols and security measures.