Queen Elizabeth National Park Safari
Discover Uganda’s most iconic wildlife destination, home to tree-climbing lions, elephants, buffaloes, hippos, chimpanzees and the famous Kazinga Channel boat cruise surrounded by breathtaking landscapes.
Request a TripDiscover Queen Elizabeth National Park
Located in southwestern Uganda, Queen Elizabeth National Park is one of the country’s most famous wildlife destinations, offering a remarkable combination of diverse landscapes, abundant wildlife and unforgettable safari experiences. The park is known for its scenic beauty, ranging from open savannah plains and crater lakes to wetlands, forests and the famous Kazinga Channel.
Covering a vast wilderness area, Queen Elizabeth National Park is home to some of Uganda’s most iconic wildlife species, including elephants, lions, leopards, buffaloes, hippos and Uganda kobs. The park’s unique ecosystem supports a wide variety of animals and birds, making it one of the best places in Uganda for classic game drives and nature exploration.
The main attraction of Queen Elizabeth National Park is its incredible wildlife viewing opportunities. Visitors can enjoy thrilling game drives across the Kasenyi Plains, search for the famous tree-climbing lions in the Ishasha sector and take a memorable boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel, where large numbers of hippos, elephants, buffaloes and water birds gather.
Beyond wildlife, the park offers a complete safari experience with opportunities for chimpanzee tracking in Kyambura Gorge, bird watching, crater lake visits and cultural encounters with communities surrounding the park. Its location also makes it an ideal destination to combine with gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park.
With its breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife and unforgettable experiences, Queen Elizabeth National Park remains one of Uganda’s must-visit safari destinations for travellers seeking an authentic African adventure.
Why Visit Queen Elizabeth National Park?
Queen Elizabeth National Park offers some of Uganda’s most unforgettable safari experiences, from searching for tree-climbing lions in Ishasha to cruising the wildlife-rich Kazinga Channel and exploring the primate-filled Kyambura Gorge. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}
Tree-Climbing Lions
Discover the famous tree-climbing lions of Ishasha, one of Queen Elizabeth National Park’s most unique wildlife attractions. Watch these magnificent cats resting on fig trees while overlooking the beautiful savannah plains.
Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise
Enjoy a spectacular boat safari along the Kazinga Channel, where you can see hippos, elephants, buffaloes and numerous bird species gathering along the waterways of the park.
Big Game Safari Adventures
Explore the open savannah plains of Queen Elizabeth National Park in search of lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards, Uganda kobs and other incredible wildlife species.
Chimpanzee Tracking Experience
Explore Kyambura Gorge, also known as the Valley of Apes, and enjoy a unique forest adventure searching for chimpanzees and other primates within this beautiful natural environment.
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Request a TripWildlife in Queen Elizabeth National Park
Queen Elizabeth National Park is one of Uganda’s richest wildlife destinations, offering incredible sightings of lions, elephants, leopards, buffaloes, hippos and chimpanzees across its savannah plains, wetlands and forests.
Lions of Queen Elizabeth National Park
Queen Elizabeth National Park is famous for its tree-climbing lions in the Ishasha Sector. Visitors can also spot lions hunting across the Kasenyi Plains during exciting game drives.
African Elephants
Large herds of elephants roam Queen Elizabeth National Park, offering travellers memorable sightings during game drives and wildlife experiences across the park.
Hippos of Kazinga Channel
The Kazinga Channel provides one of Uganda’s best places to see hippos. Boat cruises offer close views of these giant animals along with birds and other wildlife near the shoreline.
Cape Buffaloes
Cape buffaloes are commonly seen across the open savannah landscapes of Queen Elizabeth National Park, often gathering around water sources and grasslands.
Leopards
Leopards are among the most exciting animals to discover in Queen Elizabeth National Park. Although elusive, they can sometimes be spotted during early morning and evening game drives.
Chimpanzees of Kyambura Gorge
Kyambura Gorge offers an exciting primate experience where visitors can track chimpanzees and explore the beautiful forest ecosystem within the park.
Best Things To Do in Queen Elizabeth National Park
Morning Game Drive in Kasenyi Plains
A morning game drive in the Kasenyi Plains is one of the best ways to experience the wildlife of Queen Elizabeth National Park. The open savannah landscape provides excellent opportunities to search for lions, elephants, buffaloes, Uganda kobs and other wildlife as animals are most active during the early hours of the day. With experienced safari guides, visitors can explore different areas of the park while enjoying the beautiful scenery and unforgettable wildlife encounters.
Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise
The Kazinga Channel boat cruise is one of the most popular activities in Queen Elizabeth National Park. This scenic boat safari allows visitors to enjoy close views of large concentrations of hippos, elephants, buffaloes and many bird species along the water banks. The peaceful cruise provides excellent photography opportunities and offers a different perspective of the park’s incredible wildlife ecosystem.
Ishasha Tree-Climbing Lions Experience
The Ishasha Sector in southern Queen Elizabeth National Park is famous for its rare tree-climbing lions. During a game drive through this beautiful wilderness area, visitors can search for lions resting on large fig trees while enjoying views of open plains and surrounding landscapes. This unique wildlife experience makes Ishasha one of the most exciting areas to explore during a Uganda safari.
Kyambura Gorge Chimpanzee Tracking
Kyambura Gorge offers a unique forest adventure within Queen Elizabeth National Park. Visitors can hike through the beautiful gorge in search of chimpanzees while exploring a rich ecosystem filled with primates, birds and forest vegetation. The experience combines wildlife viewing with an exciting rainforest walk, making it a great addition to a classic safari.
Bird Watching in Queen Elizabeth National Park
Queen Elizabeth National Park is one of Uganda’s best birding destinations, home to hundreds of bird species found across savannahs, wetlands and forests. Bird lovers can spot species around the Kazinga Channel, crater lakes and woodland areas while enjoying the park’s diverse landscapes. The combination of wildlife and birdlife makes the park an excellent destination for nature enthusiasts.
Crater Lake Exploration
The crater lakes around Queen Elizabeth National Park provide some of the most beautiful scenery in western Uganda. Visitors can explore viewpoints overlooking volcanic craters, salt lakes and surrounding countryside while learning about the geological history of the region. These scenic locations provide excellent photography opportunities and a peaceful experience away from the busy safari routes.
Popular Queen Elizabeth National Park Safaris
Explore Queen Elizabeth National Park with carefully designed safari packages combining wildlife viewing, boat cruises, chimpanzee experiences and scenic adventures in Uganda’s most iconic national park.
2 Days Queen Elizabeth National Park Safari
Enjoy a short wildlife safari featuring game drives in Kasenyi Plains and a memorable Kazinga Channel boat cruise.
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3 Days Queen Elizabeth Wildlife Safari
Discover lions, elephants, buffaloes and hippos while exploring Uganda’s famous savannah landscapes.
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4 Days Queen Elizabeth & Kibale Safari
Combine wildlife adventures in Queen Elizabeth with chimpanzee tracking in Kibale Forest National Park.
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5 Days Uganda Gorilla & Queen Elizabeth Safari
Experience mountain gorilla trekking in Bwindi combined with unforgettable wildlife adventures in Queen Elizabeth National Park.
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6 Days Uganda Wildlife Safari Adventure
Explore Queen Elizabeth and other incredible wildlife destinations through game drives, nature experiences and scenic landscapes.
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7 Days Ultimate Uganda Safari
A complete Uganda safari combining wildlife, landscapes, primates and memorable national park experiences.
Book a TourBest Time to Visit Queen Elizabeth National Park
Queen Elizabeth National Park can be visited throughout the year, but the best time depends on your preferred safari experience. The dry seasons offer easier wildlife viewing and comfortable game drives, while the wet seasons create beautiful green landscapes and excellent birdwatching opportunities.
Dry Season Safari
The dry season is one of the best times for a Queen Elizabeth National Park safari. Wildlife is easier to spot as animals gather around water sources, vegetation becomes shorter and roads are generally easier for game drives.
- Excellent wildlife viewing
- Best conditions for game drives
- Great photography opportunities
Short Dry Season
December to February provides another excellent period for visiting Queen Elizabeth National Park. Warm weather and lower rainfall make it ideal for game drives, boat cruises and wildlife exploration.
- Good wildlife sightings
- Comfortable safari conditions
- Ideal for combining with gorilla trekking
Green Season Safari
The wet season transforms Queen Elizabeth National Park into a beautiful green landscape. It is a rewarding period for birdwatchers, photographers and travellers looking for fewer crowds.
- Lush green scenery
- Excellent birdwatching
- Fewer tourists
Our Recommended Time to Visit
For the best overall safari experience, we recommend visiting Queen Elizabeth National Park during the dry months of June to September or December to February. These periods provide excellent conditions for wildlife viewing, game drives, Kazinga Channel boat cruises and combining your safari with other Uganda destinations.
Getting to Queen Elizabeth National Park
Queen Elizabeth National Park is easily accessible from major destinations in Uganda, making it one of the best parks to include in a Uganda safari itinerary. Travellers can reach the park by road from Kampala, Entebbe, Bwindi or Kigali, or choose domestic flights for a faster safari connection.
From Kampala or Entebbe
Queen Elizabeth National Park is located approximately 380 kilometres from Kampala and Entebbe. The journey takes around 6 to 7 hours by road, passing through beautiful countryside landscapes, local communities and scenic areas of western Uganda.
From Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
Many travellers combine gorilla trekking in Bwindi with a wildlife safari in Queen Elizabeth National Park. The drive between the two destinations takes approximately 2 to 4 hours depending on the Bwindi sector and route used.
From Kigali Rwanda
Travellers arriving through Kigali can combine Rwanda and Uganda safari experiences. The journey from Kigali to Queen Elizabeth National Park takes approximately 6 to 8 hours, often combined with gorilla trekking or other western Uganda attractions.
By Domestic Flight
For travellers looking for a quicker option, domestic flights can connect to airstrips near Queen Elizabeth National Park. This option is ideal for luxury safaris and visitors with limited travel time.
Recommended Safari Route
A popular Uganda safari route combines Queen Elizabeth National Park with Kibale Forest for chimpanzee tracking and Bwindi Impenetrable Forest for mountain gorilla trekking, creating a complete wildlife and primate adventure.
Request For A TourRecommended Lodges in Queen Elizabeth National Park
Queen Elizabeth National Park offers excellent accommodation options in different locations, allowing travellers to stay close to wildlife experiences, game drives and scenic attractions across the park. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}
Buffalo Safari Lodge
Located near Queen Elizabeth National Park, Buffalo Safari Lodge offers a comfortable safari stay with beautiful surroundings and easy access to wildlife experiences, game drives and the Kazinga Channel area. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}
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Enganzi Game Lodge
Enganzi Game Lodge provides a peaceful safari atmosphere for travellers exploring Queen Elizabeth National Park, with comfortable accommodation and a convenient base for wildlife adventures.
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Ishasha Wilderness Camp
Located in the Ishasha Sector, this wilderness camp provides an authentic safari experience close to the famous tree-climbing lions and remote southern landscapes of Queen Elizabeth National Park. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}
Request A TourFrequently Asked Questions About Queen Elizabeth National Park
Where is Queen Elizabeth National Park located?
Queen Elizabeth National Park is located in southwestern Uganda, near the border with the Democratic Republic of Congo. The park is situated between Lake Edward and Lake George and is part of the larger Albertine Rift ecosystem.
What animals can I see in Queen Elizabeth National Park?
Queen Elizabeth National Park is home to a wide variety of wildlife including lions, elephants, leopards, buffaloes, hippos, Uganda kobs, warthogs, hyenas, chimpanzees and many bird species. The park is especially famous for the tree-climbing lions found in the Ishasha Sector.
What is Queen Elizabeth National Park famous for?
The park is famous for its diverse wildlife, the Kazinga Channel boat cruise, Ishasha tree-climbing lions, chimpanzee tracking in Kyambura Gorge and excellent savannah game drives.
How many days do I need for Queen Elizabeth National Park?
A minimum of 2 to 3 days is recommended to experience the main attractions of Queen Elizabeth National Park. Longer safaris allow visitors to include chimpanzee tracking, Ishasha exploration and additional wildlife experiences.
What is the best time to visit Queen Elizabeth National Park?
The best time to visit Queen Elizabeth National Park is during the dry seasons from June to September and December to February. These months offer better wildlife viewing conditions, easier game drives and comfortable safari experiences.
Can I combine Queen Elizabeth National Park with gorilla trekking?
Yes, Queen Elizabeth National Park is one of the best destinations to combine with gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park. Many Uganda safari itineraries include both wildlife viewing and mountain gorilla encounters.
Is the Kazinga Channel boat cruise worth doing?
Yes, the Kazinga Channel boat cruise is one of the highlights of a Queen Elizabeth National Park safari. Visitors can enjoy close views of hippos, elephants, buffaloes, crocodiles and numerous bird species along the water.
Are there tree-climbing lions in Queen Elizabeth National Park?
Yes, the Ishasha Sector in southern Queen Elizabeth National Park is famous for its tree-climbing lions. These lions are often seen resting on large fig trees while overlooking the surrounding savannah plains.
Is Queen Elizabeth National Park safe for tourists?
Yes, Queen Elizabeth National Park is safe for visitors when travelling with experienced guides and following park regulations. Safari activities are conducted with trained professionals who ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
How do I get to Queen Elizabeth National Park?
Queen Elizabeth National Park can be reached by road from Kampala, Entebbe, Kigali or Bwindi. Travellers can also use domestic flights to nearby airstrips for a faster connection, especially on luxury safaris.
What activities can I do in Queen Elizabeth National Park?
Popular activities include morning and evening game drives, Kazinga Channel boat cruises, chimpanzee tracking in Kyambura Gorge, bird watching, crater lake visits and cultural experiences.
Which sector is best to stay in Queen Elizabeth National Park?
The best sector depends on your safari interests. Mweya is ideal for boat cruises and central park access, Kasenyi is excellent for game drives, while Ishasha is best for travellers interested in tree-climbing lions.
Can I see the Big Five in Queen Elizabeth National Park?
Queen Elizabeth National Park offers sightings of several Big Five animals including lions, leopards, elephants and buffaloes. Rhinos are not found inside the park, but they can be visited at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary as part of a longer Uganda safari.
What should I pack for a Queen Elizabeth National Park safari?
Important items include comfortable safari clothing, a camera, binoculars, sunscreen, a hat, insect repellent, comfortable walking shoes and a light jacket for early morning game drives and boat cruises.
Why should I visit Queen Elizabeth National Park?
Queen Elizabeth National Park offers one of Uganda’s most complete safari experiences, combining spectacular wildlife, scenic landscapes, boat adventures, primate encounters and easy connections to gorilla trekking destinations.