Given its outstanding wildlife attractions, Queen Elizabeth National Park has a fascinating cultural history. There are many opportunities for visitors to meet the local communities and enjoy storytelling, dance, music and more. The gazetting of the park has ensured the conservation of its ecosystems, which in turn benefits the surrounding communities. Uganda’s Queen Elizabeth National Park is truly a Medley of Wonders!
If you’re after a classic African safari experience, the trails through Kasenyi, the North Kazinga Plains and the Ishasha Sector offer virtually guaranteed buffalo, antelope and elephant sightings, along with warthogs and baboons. Taking an experienced guide is the most sucessful way to track down a pride of lions, and maybe even the odd leopard.
This park offers the most satisfying wildlife viewing experiences. Besides the spectacular rift valley and volcanic scenery, highlights include the rare tree climbing lions found in Ishasha sector south of the park as well as lions that don’t climb trees, dense population of African elephants, buffalos, leopards, spotted hyenas, zebras, eland, topi, Uganda kob among several antelopes. All of these can be seen during day except for leopard is best spotted during night game drives.
A unique experience is exploring the Kazinga channel with a boat trip; see the hippo Nile crocodiles enjoy sunsets as well as see animals by the banks. A boat trip along the Kazinga channel between Lake George and Edward is a rewarding method of game viewing. New boat trips have come up, starting at Katunguru Bridge, where locals show case their high jump swimming skills and magic.
Be in the Know
- Early morning and dusk are the best time for viewing animals, as they spend the daytime escaping from the heat under shady trees or in the park’s lakes and channels.
- Guides are available from 6:30am on wards; morning game drives should be booked the night before.