Queen Elizabeth National Park, located in southwestern Uganda, stands as one of the greatest natural treasures of East Africa. Established in 1952 and renamed in 1954 to honor Queen Elizabeth II's visit, this 1,978 km² sanctuary is home to exceptional biodiversity comprising 95 mammal species and over 600 bird species. From savannas to tropical forests and the renowned Kazinga Channel, this UNESCO biosphere reserve unveils landscapes of breathtaking beauty.

History

Before becoming a protected area, the region now occupied by Queen Elizabeth National Park was inhabited by communities that lived through hunting and gathering. Due to its rich biodiversity, the territory attracted the attention of British colonial authorities from the early 20th century onward. When the park was established in 1952, under the name Kazinga National Park, its mission was to protect the natural habitats and emblematic animal species of the region.

Since its creation, the park has played a crucial role in conserving Uganda's wildlife and flora. It endured difficult periods, particularly during the political turmoil of the 1970s and 1980s, which led to a significant decline in its animal populations due to poaching and habitat destruction. However, thanks to conservation efforts undertaken by the Ugandan government and its international partners, wildlife has gradually recovered and the park has regained its status as a premier destination for nature lovers and safari enthusiasts.

A must-visit park on your Uganda journey

Queen Elizabeth National Park is an essential destination in Uganda. It is the most visited protected area in the country, welcoming 95,340 visitors in 2022. Its remarkable diversity of ecosystems allows you to discover exceptional fauna in a unique setting. Whether you're drawn to safari, boat cruises, hiking, or birdwatching, it offers a multitude of activities to satisfy every traveler.

Activities at Queen Elizabeth National Park

Observing the tree-climbing lions of Ishasha

Your safari in Queen Elizabeth National Park will undoubtedly be unforgettable. In the Ishasha sector, south of the protected area, you'll encounter lions displaying atypical behavior, climbing fig trees and acacias to rest among their branches.

These tree-climbing lions, also known as cactus-climbing lions, represent a major attraction of the park. Only two places in the world offer the chance to see lions behaving this way: here, in Queen Elizabeth Park, and in Lake Manyara National Park in Tanzania. Seize the opportunity to witness this remarkable phenomenon during your visit.

Cruise along Kazinga Channel

Join a boat excursion to explore the magnificent Kazinga Channel, stretching 32 kilometers and connecting Lake Edward and Lake George. Numerous wild animals will reveal themselves to you during this aquatic adventure. Take time to admire the elephants coming to drink along the banks, observe the hippopotamuses enlivening the waterway, and contemplate the pink flamingos flourishing there.

Visiting the explosion craters of Lake Katwe

The explosion craters of Lake Katwe are worth discovering north of Mweya Peninsula, a finger of land extending into Lake Edward and privileged for game viewing. The highest point of Queen Elizabeth National Park, they delight landscape enthusiasts. Beyond enjoying stunning views of the great Western Rift Valley and its escarpments during your visit, you'll also benefit from a spectacular panorama over Lake George, the Rwenzori mountain ranges and Kazinga Channel.

Discovering Lake Katwe salt mines

Adventurers exploring the park often make stops at the salt mines of Lake Katwe, located north of Mweya Peninsula. Here, the extraction of rock salt is an economic activity that has existed for several years, though its value has recently declined due to the discovery of salt mines in other countries. Safari-goers pause here to learn about and observe the traditional method of rock salt production.

Encounter with primates in Kyambura Gorge

Fascinated by primates? Include Kyambura Gorge on your itinerary. This valley, 100 meters deep and blanketed in lush forests, is the stronghold of primates. It is particularly renowned for its chimpanzees. Special expeditions designed for observing these human relatives are offered by the park.

Exploration of Kasenyi Plains

Kasenyi Plains are unmissable within Queen Elizabeth National Park. Safari in this section of the sanctuary guarantees expansive views of savanna wildlife. Lions, leopards, Uganda kobs, warthogs, elephants, buffalo and many others are observable here.

Excursion to Kyambura Wildlife Reserve

Kyambura Wildlife Reserve, near Kyambura Gorge, also captivates tourists. Diverse fauna, including primates and butterflies, awaits you there.

Visit to Maramagambo Forest

This forest, bordered by Lake Nyamadindiri and Lake Kyasanduka, owes its renown to its caves teeming with bats and African rock pythons.

Hot air balloon ride

It's possible to explore the park by hot air balloon. This activity offers a unique perspective on the region's wonders. Panoramic flights, typically scheduled for early morning, allow you to witness sunrise over the savanna and observe wildlife awakening. From the air, you'll be able to contemplate the park's vastness, its varied landscapes including volcanic craters, Kazinga Channel and expansive plains where herds of elephants, buffalo and antelope roam.

Best time to visit Queen Elizabeth National Park

The best time to visit this park corresponds with the dry seasons, from June to August and December to February. During these months, animals congregate around water sources, making observation more accessible.

Location and access

The park is situated in the Kasese District, approximately 400 km (5 to 6 hours by road) from Kampala, Uganda's capital. It is accessible by car from the capital, Entebbe, and other southwestern national parks.

For time-conscious travelers, local airlines offer flights to airstrips located near the park. For those departing from Rwanda, flights to Kampala from Kigali are available.