Queen Elizabeth National Park

Queen Elizabeth National Park (QENP) stands as one of Uganda’s premier destinations, spanning an expansive 1,978 square kilometers in the Kasese district. Established in 1952 as Kazinga National Park, it was later renamed in 1954 in honor of Queen Elizabeth II’s visit. Nestled in the western region of Uganda, QENP sits at an elevation of 884-1,337m, situated at the base of Africa’s Western Rift Valley.

Wildlife at Queen Elizabeth National Park

Renowned for its diverse wildlife, QENP attracts visitors with its impressive array of animals. The park is home to iconic species such as leopards, buffaloes, elephants, lions, and tree-climbing lions. The landscape also hosts Uganda kobs, water buffaloes, warthogs, and various antelope species. The Ishasha southern region is famous for topis and tree-climbing lions, adding a unique aspect to the safari experience.

Birdwatching Paradise

With over 612 bird species, QENP holds the sixth position globally for protected area bird diversity and second in Africa. Key bird species include the rare Shoebill stork, Martial Eagle, African Skimmer, and numerous other migratory species from November to April.

Primate Haven

QENP is a rich habitat for primates, with ten species calling the park home. Chimpanzees, olive baboons, black and white colobus monkeys, and vervet monkeys are among the fascinating primates that can be encountered.

Sectors in QENP

1. Kazinga Channel
   • A 32-kilometer-long natural channel connecting Lake George and Lake Edward.
   • Best explored through boat launch excursions for a chance to witness diverse wildlife along the shores.
2. Kasenyi Plains
   • Located in the northeastern part of the park, it boasts the highest concentration of game animals.
   • Ideal for observing lions in action as they hunt Uganda kobs.
3. Mweya Peninsula
   • Overlooking Lake Edward’s Katwe Bay, it offers excellent opportunities for wildlife sightings.
   • Best chance for leopard sightings and home to a 20-person motorized boat for daily excursions.
4. Kyambura Gorge
   • Known as the “Valley of Apes,” this area offers chimpanzee trekking and diverse wildlife biodiversity.
   • Nature walks reveal the gorge’s natural splendor.
5. Katwe Explosion Craters
   • Home to three salty crater lakes with magnificent views.
   • Excellent for nature excursions and bird watching.
6. Maramagambo Forest
   • Stretching from the Kichwamba escarpment to Lake Edward, it offers hiking, nature walks, and birdwatching.
   • Features bat caverns and diverse primate species.
7. Ishasha Sector
   • Notable for its resident tree-climbing lions.
   • Magnificent views of wildlife, including buffalo herds and elephants.
8. Lake George
   • A shallow lake with water from the Rwenzori ranges, it offers local boat rides and wildlife sightings along its shores.

Safari Activities at QENP

1. Game Drives
   • Explore the park’s diverse ecosystems, including woodlands, savanna grasslands, and crater lakes.
   • Morning and night game drives offer unique wildlife viewing experiences.
2. Birding
   • QENP is a paradise for birdwatchers, with millions of migratory birds visiting from November to April.
3. Boat Cruises
   • Kazinga Channel boat cruises provide opportunities to see hippos, crocodiles, and diverse birdlife.
4. Explore Tree-Climbing Lions
   • Witness the unique behavior of tree-climbing lions in the Ishasha sector.
5. Chimpanzee Trekking in Kyambura Gorge
   • Embark on a trek to encounter chimpanzees in their natural habitat.
6. Nature Walks in Maramagambo Forest
   • Discover the forest’s biodiversity, including primates, bats, and pythons.
7. Hot Air Balloon Safaris
   • Enjoy breathtaking aerial views of the park’s wildlife and landscapes.
8. Cultural Tours
   • Immerse yourself in local culture through visits to tribes, traditional dances, and interactions with local communities.

Getting to QENP

Accessible by both air and road, QENP is approximately a 7-hour drive from Kampala. Charter flights from Entebbe or Kajjansi airstrips to Ishasha, Kasese, or Mweya airstrips offer a convenient alternative.

Best Time to Visit

While open year-round, the best times to visit are during the dry seasons (January to February and June to August) for optimal wildlife sightings.

Accommodation Options

QENP offers a range of accommodation options, from budget to luxury, including lodges and tented camps. Notable choices include Elephant Plains Lodge, Kyambura Gorge Lodge, and Mweya Safari Lodge.

Explore the gem of Africa at Queen Elizabeth National Park with Steadfast Safaris for an unforgettable safari experience!