Queen Elizabeth National Park

Queen Elizabeth National Park, located in western Uganda, is one of Africa’s most iconic and diverse protected areas. Covering approximately 1,978 square kilometers, the park spans the districts of Kasese, Kamwenge, Rubirizi, and Rukungiri. Established in 1952 and named in honor of Queen Elizabeth II, the park is a thriving hub for wildlife tourism and conservation. Its diverse landscapes, abundant wildlife, and unique experiences make it one of the most visited parks in Uganda and a cornerstone of the country’s tourism industry.

Spectacular Landscapes and Ecosystems

The park boasts a dramatic blend of terrains and ecosystems—from open savannah and acacia woodland to tropical rainforests, wetlands, crater lakes, and volcanic features. It lies between Lake Edward and Lake George and is flanked by the Rwenzori Mountains to the north and the Ishasha River to the south. The varied habitats support an incredibly rich biodiversity, making it a haven for both wildlife and bird species.

One of the park’s geographical highlights is its crater lakes, particularly the Katwe Explosion Craters. These ancient volcanic features offer panoramic views, beautiful scenery, and insight into Uganda’s geological past. Some of the crater lakes, like Lake Katwe, are still used for traditional salt mining—a cultural and economic activity that tourists can witness first-hand.

A Wildlife Enthusiast’s Paradise

Queen Elizabeth National Park is home to more than 95 species of mammals and over 600 species of birds, making it a dream destination for safari lovers and birdwatchers alike. Iconic African animals such as elephants, hippos, buffaloes, and warthogs roam freely across the savannah. Predators like lions, leopards, and hyenas are also frequently spotted during game drives, especially in the Kasenyi Plains.

Perhaps one of the park’s most remarkable features is the population of tree-climbing lions in the southern sector known as Ishasha. These lions are famous for their rare habit of climbing fig trees and resting on the branches—an unusual behavior not commonly seen in other lion populations across Africa. Spotting these majestic predators lounging in trees is a unique and unforgettable safari experience.

The park’s rich birdlife includes African skimmers, pink-backed pelicans, martial eagles, and the elusive shoebill stork, making it a prime destination for ornithologists and nature photographers.

The Kazinga Channel: A Wildlife Corridor

The Kazinga Channel is a 32-kilometer natural waterway that links Lake Edward and Lake George. It serves as a critical lifeline for many animals, especially during the dry season. Boat safaris along the channel offer visitors the chance to observe large concentrations of hippos, Nile crocodiles, buffaloes, and elephants cooling off along the shores.

The banks of the Kazinga Channel are also teeming with birdlife, including pied kingfishers, African jacanas, cormorants, and African fish eagles. This boat safari is one of the most popular activities in the park due to the close-up wildlife encounters it provides.

Chimpanzee Tracking in Kyambura Gorge

In the northeastern part of the park lies the Kyambura Gorge, often referred to as the “Valley of the Apes.” This lush, forested ravine is home to a small group of habituated chimpanzees. Guided chimpanzee tracking experiences offer tourists a chance to venture into the gorge and observe these intelligent primates in their natural habitat.

Aside from chimpanzees, Kyambura Gorge also shelters other primates like black-and-white colobus monkeys, vervet monkeys, and baboons, as well as a variety of forest bird species. The contrast between the surrounding savannah and the dense forest in the gorge adds to the area’s mystical charm.

Cultural Encounters and Community Tourism

Queen Elizabeth National Park is not just about wildlife—it also offers meaningful cultural experiences that promote sustainable tourism and benefit local communities. Several cultural centers and villages near the park offer performances of traditional dance, music, and storytelling. Tourists can also visit local markets, learn about traditional crafts, and take part in community-led tours.

At Lake Katwe, visitors can explore the salt mining process, a centuries-old practice still in use today. This provides a glimpse into the lives of local residents and helps foster a deeper understanding of the interdependence between conservation and community livelihoods.

Conservation and Sustainable Tourism

Managed by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA), Queen Elizabeth National Park is part of the Queen Elizabeth Biosphere Reserve, a UNESCO-designated area. Conservation efforts focus on preserving biodiversity while working closely with surrounding communities to mitigate human-wildlife conflict and promote eco-tourism.

Revenue generated from park tourism supports anti-poaching initiatives, wildlife monitoring, ranger training, and community development projects. The park stands as a model for how conservation and tourism can go hand-in-hand to create positive outcomes for both people and nature.

When to Visit and Where to Stay

Queen Elizabeth National Park is open all year, but the best time for game viewing is during the dry seasons—from June to September and December to February—when animals are more concentrated around water sources.

The park offers a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury lodges like Mweya Safari Lodge and Ishasha Wilderness Camp to budget-friendly campsites and guesthouses. Whether you’re a high-end traveler or a backpacker, you’ll find a place to stay that suits your needs and budget.