Queen Elizabeth National Park Guide | Uganda Wildlife Safaris

Queen Elizabeth National Park Uganda

With its stunning scenery, plethora of animals, and illuminating history, Queen Elizabeth National Park is the most visited and biologically varied safari destination in Uganda. Monuments at the precise location where the park crosses latitude 00 contribute to its singularity as it straddles the equator.

Kazinga National Park was rechristened in 1954 to honour a visit by Queen Elizabeth II of England; it had been established in 1952 under the previous name. It is now one of the most important wildlife refuges in Africa, with over 600 different bird species and 95 different kinds of mammals.

Attractions in Queen Elizabeth National Park Uganda

The Queen Elizabeth National Park is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including 612 different bird species and 95 different kinds of mammals. This park is a favourite among safari travellers in Uganda due to the remarkable variety of species found there. Although the park contains five distinct levels of vegetation, geographers will report that there are roughly 57 different types of vegetation. To be more specific, woodland grassland, marsh vegetation, lakeshore vegetation, and Acacia woodland. Among the many Ugandan parks you can see on an eight-day safari are Queen Elizabeth and others.

The park’s grasslands are home to a variety of animals, including elephants, lions, leopards, hyenas, huge forest hogs, waterbucks, topis, and forest primate species found in Kyambura Gorge and Maramagambo Forest.

• 1. Tree Climbing Lions: Discover the southern Ishasha sector in search of tree-climbing lions, one of only two species of lions on Earth. These majestic creatures often perch in the branches of fig and acacia trees.
• 2. The Kazinga Channel: On the exciting Kazinga Boat Ride, you may view the abundant hippos, Nile crocodiles, elephants, and other wildlife that call this natural water channel—which links Lakes Albert and Gorge—home.
• 3. Kasenyi Plains: Tourists on Uganda wildlife safaris often stop at the Kasenyi Plains, which are teeming with antelopes, lions, and other huge predators.
• 4. Kalinzu Forest: Located in the park’s southeastern section, Kalinzu Forest provides chimpanzee tracking experiences that are highly satisfying.
• 5. The Kyambura Gorge: The Kyambura Gorge is a famous destination for chimpanzee tracking trips in Uganda. The valley is 100 meters deep and lushly wooded, and it is home to a great number of primates.
• 6. Mweya Peninsular: Game drives frequently stop at the Mweya Peninsular, a peninsula that juts out into Lake Edwards, to take in the breathtaking scenery and explore the many game paths.
• 7. Lake Katwe Salt Works: The primary economic activity in the area is salt mining, which has been going on for a while now within the alkaline Lake Katwe. As a result, many people come to this place to witness and learn about the traditional process of salt mining.
• 8. The Katwe Explosion Crater Lakes: Located at the park’s highest point, the northern Katwe Explosion Crater Lakes are a stunning natural attraction. Views of the Rwenzori Mountains, the escarpments of the western rift valley, and lakes George and Edward are available to visitors from this vantage point.

How to get to Queen Elizabeth National Park

Queen Elizabeth National Park, located in southwestern Uganda (about 375–400 km from Kampala), is accessible via a 7-8 hour drive (via Masaka-Mbarara road) or a 1.5-hour flight from Entebbe to Kasese/Mweya airstrips. Key access points include the Katunguru and Kabatoro gates, with entrance fees around $40 for foreign tourists.

Getting There

• By Road: The most common route from Kampala is a scenic 6-8 hour drive. Public buses to Kasese are available, though private 4×4 vehicles or guided tours are recommended for convenience.
• By Air: Daily scheduled or chartered flights operate from Entebbe International Airport or Kajjansi Airfield to Kasese Airstrip or Mweya Airstrip, taking approximately 1.5 hours.
• Alternative Routes: The park can be reached from Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, which is a 3-4 hour drive away.

Access & Entry Points

• Gates: Main entry points include the Katunguru Gate (near Kasese), Kabatoro Gate (main entrance), and the southern Ishasha gate.
• Entrance Fees: As of 2026, fees are roughly USD 45 for foreign non-residents and USD 40 for foreign residents (24-hour limit).
• Best Time to Visit: Dry seasons (January–February, June–September) are ideal, though March–May is good for birdwatching.

Tips for Access

• Vehicles: A 4×4 vehicle is highly recommended, especially during the rainy season.
• Documentation: Ensure you have your passport and valid visa/yellow fever certificate for entry.
• Internal Access: Within the park, roads are mostly dirt, allowing for game drives on the Mweya Peninsula and the Ishasha sector (famous for tree-climbing lions).

Accommodation in Queen Elizabeth National Park

Accommodation in Queen Elizabeth National Park ranges from luxury lodges to budget camps, with popular options including Mweya Safari Lodge, Elephant Plains Lodge, and Ishasha Wilderness Camp. Options are strategically located near the Mweya Peninsula, Kazinga Channel, and the Ishasha sector for game drives. Top choices often feature scenic views,, swimming pools, and guided activities.

Visit Queen Elizabeth National Park as part of your Uganda safari package. It’s conveniently located between Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, where you can do gorilla trekking, and Kibale Forest National Park, where you can track chimpanzees. Accommodations range from cosy lodges to remote tented camps, and activities include game drives, boat cruises, chimpanzee trekking, bird viewing, and expertly guided nature walks.

Are you prepared for an animal adventure of a lifetime? For experienced assistance with itineraries, accommodations, and trip preparation, as well as the opportunity to observe tree-climbing lions and other wildlife, make an inquiry today about planning a safari to Queen Elizabeth National Park.