Queen Elizabeth National Park, a gem in Uganda’s varied terrain, captivates visitors with its breathtaking scenery and abundant wildlife. The park covers around 1,978 square kilometers and was established in 1952, named in tribute to Queen Elizabeth II after her visit to Uganda in 1954. Situated between the awe-inspiring Rwenzori Mountains and the tranquil shores of Lake Edward, it boasts a diverse range of ecosystems, featuring savannahs, forests, wetlands, and volcanic craters.

The park boasts a one-of-a-kind landscape with vast savannahs and undulating hills, sprinkled with crater lakes like Lake Katwe, famous for its salt harvesting. The Kazinga Channel, linking Lake George and Lake Edward, serves as a vibrant centerpiece of the park. It is famous for its vast number of hippos—said to have the highest concentration in East Africa. Here, visitors can embark on boat cruises that provide thrilling encounters with wildlife along the water’s edge, featuring elephants, buffaloes, and a variety of bird species.

Queen Elizabeth National Park boasts a remarkable variety of wildlife. With over 95 mammal species and more than 600 bird species, it serves as a paradise for those who seek the thrill of the wild and the beauty of avian life. Among its remarkable residents are the renowned tree-climbing lions located in the Ishasha sector, which have uniquely adapted to lounging in fig trees—a rare spectacle that attracts numerous visitors. Among the diverse wildlife are elephants, leopards, Uganda kobs, warthogs, hyenas, and a variety of primates including chimpanzees and black-and-white colobus monkeys.

Exploring the wildlife in Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda
Nature’s wonders
Queen Elizabeth National Park is a remarkable wildlife sanctuary in Uganda, celebrated for its vibrant biodiversity. The park boasts an incredible array of wildlife, featuring over 95 mammal species, 10 primate species, and more than 600 bird species, establishing it as one of the most diverse national parks in Africa.

The park showcases an array of fascinating mammals, including several remarkable species:

The Big Four: Queen Elizabeth National Park boasts an exciting array of wildlife, featuring four of the iconic Big Five: lions, leopards, buffaloes, and elephants. Lions are renowned for their distinctive habit of climbing trees, particularly in the Ishasha sector, where they can frequently be spotted relaxing on branches. Leopards, masters of stealth, thrive in the shadows of the night but can occasionally be seen lounging in the low-hanging branches of trees under the sun’s gaze.
Antelopes: The park’s savannahs serve as perfect homes for a variety of antelope species, such as the Uganda kob, waterbuck, topi, and defassa waterbuck. These herbivores are essential to the ecosystem, contributing to the vitality of predator populations.
Hippos: These colossal creatures can be found basking in the sun along the banks of the Kazinga Channel for much of their day. Their numbers are thought to exceed 5,000 individuals.
Other Mammals: Among the remarkable mammals are spotted hyenas, giant forest hogs, and a variety of monkey species, including the black-and-white colobus and olive baboons.
Primates A remarkable destination to encounter chimpanzees in their natural habitat is Kyambura Gorge, nestled within Queen Elizabeth National Park. It features ten distinct species:

Chimpanzees: The Kyambura Gorge is renowned for its vibrant chimpanzee population. Chimpanzee trekking in this area provides an exciting opportunity for visitors to witness these clever primates in their wild surroundings.
Among the fascinating array of primates are the red-tailed monkey, blue monkey, and a variety of mangabeys and baboons. Experience the thrill of observing these primates on guided nature walks through the lush, forested landscapes of Maramagambo Forest and Kyambura Gorge.
Creatures of the Sky & Land
Home to more than 600 recorded bird species, Queen Elizabeth National Park stands out as a premier destination for birdwatching enthusiasts in Uganda.

Remarkable avian species encompass the African fish eagle, yellow-billed stork, and an array of kingfishers. The park’s varied environments are home to an incredible array of bird species, establishing it as a top destination for birdwatching in Uganda.

The Kazinga Channel brims with vibrant birdlife, drawing in a variety of aquatic birds like pelicans and cormorants. Exciting birdwatching opportunities await along the shores, where herons and other wading birds can be seen.

Crocodiles bask along the banks of the Kazinga Channel, while the Maramagambo Forest shelters African rock pythons that hunt bats in the mysterious cave systems.

Encountering tree-climbing lions during exhilarating game drives in Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda Exciting Activities and Adventures
Expedition Excursions
From thrilling lion encounters to majestic elephants strolling by, game drives in Queen Elizabeth National Park offer wildlife experiences that create unforgettable safari tales. Whether observing a herd of elephants gracefully moving by your vehicle or catching sight of a curious bushpig making its way through the grass, every game drive immerses you in the wonders of Africa’s most enchanting wildlife. With an expert safari guide leading the way, popular routes like Mweya and Kasenyi become vibrant paths teeming with life, offering unforgettable moments that make Uganda wildlife safaris exceptionally remarkable.

Discover the wonders that await you along the park’s main game tracks:

Kasenyi Game Drive Circuit: Nestled in the northeastern part of Queen Elizabeth National Park, the Kasenyi plains stretch alongside the western shores of Lake George, close to where it meets the Kazinga Channel. This area is famous for its rich wildlife, offering an ideal setting for thrilling safari game drives. Expansive groups of Uganda Kobs, the iconic antelope of the nation, roam the plains, drawing in predators such as lions, which are often seen hunting or lounging in the sunlight. Buffaloes roam freely, while warthogs and bushbucks explore the grasslands in search of food. Morning and evening game drives offer thrilling experiences, aligning perfectly with the height of animal activity.

Ishasha Game Drive Circuit: Nestled in the southern region of the park, the Ishasha sector is renowned for its extraordinary tree-climbing lions, frequently spotted relaxing in fig trees—a behavior that is uncommon among their kind. This region is alive with Uganda Kobs and topis, providing sustenance for the local predators. Elephants and buffaloes can often be seen, particularly around water sources. The Ishasha sector boasts two main circuits—the Northern and Southern loops—each around 20 kilometers long, providing ample chances for thrilling wildlife encounters.

Channel Drive Circuit: This circuit winds its way alongside the Kazinga Channel, a 40-kilometer waterway linking Lake Edward and Lake George. The channel is famous for its abundant hippo population, frequently spotted lounging in the water, while crocodiles bask in the sun along the shores. Elephants and waterbucks often gather at the water’s edge for a refreshing drink. The area is a paradise for bird enthusiasts, showcasing frequent appearances of species such as pelicans and storks. The vibrant greenery and picturesque water vistas elevate the entire wildlife encounter.

Crater Drive Circuit: The Crater Drive circuit winds through the park’s volcanic craters, showcasing breathtaking views and extraordinary geological wonders. This area is inhabited by elusive giant forest hogs, bushbucks, and waterbucks that roam through the vibrant vegetation surrounding the craters. These habitats are home to a diverse array of bird species, creating an ideal destination for birdwatching in Uganda. Given the challenging and rugged landscape, it is advisable to take a 4×4 vehicle for this journey.

Ideal Moments for Game Drives
Morning Game Drives (6:30 AM – 10:30 AM): This is when the wilderness comes alive, offering a chance to see predators in action and herbivores peacefully grazing.
Evening Game Drives (3:00 PM – 6:00 PM): As the sun begins to set, the wilderness comes alive with vibrant wildlife, creating thrilling viewing opportunities as animals gear up for the night.
Evening Safari Adventures (6:00 PM onwards): These drives, primarily held in the Mweya Peninsula, offer visitors the chance to encounter nocturnal creatures like leopards, serval cats, bush babies, and hyenas with the help of spotlight torches.
Embark on thrilling boat safaris along the Kazinga Channel in Queen Elizabeth National Park.
Exciting Boat Safaris on Kazinga Channel
Boat safaris in Queen Elizabeth National Park offer one of Uganda’s most engaging wildlife experiences, inviting visitors to enjoy a leisurely 2-3 hour cruise along a 32-kilometer natural waterway—the Kazinga Channel—linking Lakes Edward and George. From the cozy embrace of a covered boat setting sail from Mweya Peninsula, guests can witness one of Africa’s most impressive gatherings of hippos basking in the water. Nile crocodiles lounge on the riverbanks, while elephants and buffalo gather to quench their thirst. Above, a vibrant array of water birds, from pelicans to kingfishers and African fish eagles, glide through the sky or explore the shallows along the shore.

The boat safari offers an exhilarating way to connect with wildlife, allowing for stunning photo moments and a deeply engaging experience unlike any land-based adventure. Expert guides join each boat safari, sharing fascinating insights about the wildlife, various bird species, and the park’s unique ecology. They elevate your journey with captivating insights and possess a remarkable ability to detect even the rarest creatures. The tranquil cadence of the boat ride invites a deeper engagement with the surroundings.

The boat cruises usually take place in two exciting sessions: one in the morning (around 9 AM) and another in the afternoon (around 2 PM).

This signature safari experience is offered throughout the year, but the most optimal viewing conditions usually happen during the dry seasons, which run from December to February and June to September. Afternoon excursions present striking chances for wildlife photography, bathed in the enchanting glow of golden light.

While many boat safaris involve shared vessels, Maseke Adventure Co. specialists can organize private boat excursions for a uniquely tailored adventure. Group trips provide an exciting opportunity to connect with fellow adventurers, whereas private excursions allow for a serene and personal experience with the great outdoors.

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Exploratory Nature Walks
Nature walks in Queen Elizabeth National Park present an immersive experience with the park’s varied landscapes and wildlife, enhancing the thrill of game drives and boat safaris. Led by knowledgeable rangers, these excursions invite visitors to dive deep into Uganda’s wild landscapes, revealing fascinating details about the park’s diverse plant life, animal inhabitants, and intricate ecosystems. Here are a few renowned walking trails:

Mweya Peninsula Walks: The Mweya Peninsula features an enticing walking trail that showcases breathtaking views of the Kazinga Channel and Lake Edward. As you stroll along, a world of diverse animal species unfolds before your eyes, and the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes beckon you to explore further.
Maramagambo Forest Walks: Guided nature walks through Maramagambo Forest immerse you in a world of rich biodiversity, where you encounter various primates, diverse tree species, and a multitude of birds. The forest is a vibrant realm featuring the Bat Cave, a place where you can witness fruit bats in their natural habitat and, with a bit of luck, catch a glimpse of their formidable predator, the rock python.
Kyambura Gorge Trekking: A true gem of the park, Kyambura Gorge invites you to embark on guided nature walks through a vibrant, steep ravine sculpted by the flowing Kyambura River. The “Valley of Apes” boasts a vibrant chimpanzee population, and although encounters are not assured, exploring this area offers an exhilarating and engaging journey through a one-of-a-kind ecosystem.
The park’s crater lakes, shaped by ancient volcanic activity, present picturesque and frequently less-explored walking trails. These walks offer stunning vistas, captivating geological features, and chances to discover the area’s history and ecology with the help of expert guides.
Tracking Lions
Lion tracking in Queen Elizabeth National Park presents an extraordinary chance to engage with one of Africa’s most legendary predators. This captivating experience invites visitors to delve into the world of lion behavior while playing a crucial role in conservation efforts, ensuring these majestic creatures thrive for generations to come.

The lion tracking experience usually takes place in the Kasenyi Plains, a remarkable region in the northern part of Queen Elizabeth National Park. Trained researchers from the Uganda Carnivore Program embark on an exciting journey, utilizing radio collars on select lions to track their movements through the wild. This increases the likelihood of encountering lions and plays a vital role in essential conservation initiatives.

Lion tracking sessions typically take place in the early morning, around 8 AM, or in the late afternoon, around 4 PM. These times are selected to enhance the chances of witnessing lions during their peak activity. The experience lasts around 1 to 3 hours, offering participants the chance to discover the fascinating behaviors, social dynamics, and feeding habits of lions.

Lion tracking in Queen Elizabeth National Park offers an exclusive opportunity for a select few, ensuring a more intimate experience while prioritizing the well-being of the majestic animals. This guarantees a close and enlightening experience.

Participants are outfitted with radio receivers that assist in tracking lions adorned with collars. The leading pride lioness is often chosen for collaring, as she typically remains with the group. This enables researchers to keep a close watch on the whole pride with great efficiency.

Permit Costs: A lion tracking permit is priced at USD $100 for foreign non-residents, $80 for foreign residents, and 100,000 UGX for East African citizens. These rates come with a $10 community fee.