Queen Elizabeth National park
Uganda — The Pearl of Africa
Uganda — The Pearl of Africa
June–September & December–February — Drier conditions and strong wildlife-viewing demand.
June–September — Generally favourable for game drives, boat safaris and outdoor activities.
Tree-climbing lions, Kazinga Channel, elephants and diverse landscapes.
Tree-climbing lions, hippos, elephants, chimpanzees and abundant birdlife.
- Overview
Why Visit Queen Elizabeth National park
Queen Elizabeth National Park is one of Uganda’s most diverse safari destinations, combining open savannah, wetlands, lakes, forests and volcanic scenery.
It is particularly known for the Kazinga Channel boat safari, tree-climbing lions in the Ishasha sector and varied wildlife across its different habitats.
The park works especially well for travellers combining a traditional Uganda safari with chimpanzee tracking or gorilla trekking elsewhere in the country.
- Expert Advice
Explore Queen Elizabeth National Park for tree-climbing lions, elephants, hippos, chimpanzees and scenic Kazinga Channel boat safaris in Uganda.
- Best Time to Visit
Best Time to Visit Queen Elizabeth National park
June – September
(Peak Season)
Best Overall
December – February
(Dry Season)
Great Option
March – May & October – November (Dry Season)
Budget Friendly
Wildlife Highlights
Tree-Climbing Lions
The Ishasha sector is particularly known for lions that are sometimes seen resting in fig and acacia trees.
Elephants
Elephants are an important part of the park's wildlife and can be encountered during game drives.
Hippos
The Kazinga Channel supports large numbers of hippos, making the boat safari especially rewarding for close wildlife observation.
Buffalo
Large buffalo herds can be encountered across the park's grassland and wetland habitats.
Leopards
Leopards occur in the park but are elusive and require patience and good guiding.
Chimpanzees
Kyambura Gorge offers chimpanzee tracking in a forest environment, although sightings are not guaranteed.
Birdlife
The park's combination of lakes, wetlands, forest and savannah makes it an excellent destination for birdwatchers.
TOP THINGS TO DO IN Queen Elizabeth National park
Game Drives
Explore the savannah in search of elephants, lions, buffalo, leopards and other wildlife.
Kazinga Channel Boat Safari
Cruise between Lake Edward and Lake George for excellent views of hippos, elephants, buffalo and birds.
Chimpanzee Tracking
Explore Kyambura Gorge in search of chimpanzees and other forest primates.
Ishasha Safari
Visit the southern sector for its distinctive scenery and famous tree-climbing lions.
Birdwatching
Explore wetlands, forests and savannah habitats supporting diverse birdlife.
Nature & Community Experiences
Add cultural and community-based experiences where available.
Explore Queen Elizabeth National park
Zanzibar
Tarangire National Park
Serengeti National park
Ruaha National Park
Nyerere National Park
Ngorongoro Crater
Getting There
By Air
Domestic and charter flights can connect travellers from Entebbe or other safari destinations to nearby airstrips.
By Road
Queen Elizabeth is accessible by road from Kampala and other major Ugandan safari destinations.
From Bwindi
The park combines naturally with Bwindi for travellers planning a gorilla and savannah itinerary.
From Rwanda
It can also be incorporated into a Uganda–Rwanda wildlife journey.
Where To Stay in Queen Elizabeth National park
Pros and Cons of Visiting Queen Elizabeth National park
Pros of Visiting Queen Elizabeth National park
Things to Consider
PRACTICAL INFORMATION
Location
Western Uganda, between Lake Edward and Lake George.
Main Experiences
Game drives, Kazinga Channel boat safaris, chimpanzee tracking and birdwatching.
Accommodation
Options range from comfortable safari lodges to camps around the park.
Mobile & Internet
Connectivity varies, with stronger coverage around developed areas and weaker service in remote locations.
Getting Around
Safari activities are normally conducted using four-wheel-drive vehicles with professional guides.
SAFETY & HEALTH
Wildlife Safety
Stay inside the safari vehicle unless your guide confirms that leaving is safe.
Boat Safety
Follow crew instructions and remain seated appropriately during Kazinga Channel cruises.
Malaria
Discuss suitable malaria prevention with a qualified travel-health professional before travelling.
Yellow Fever
Uganda requires yellow fever vaccination documentation in applicable circumstances.
Travel Insurance
Comprehensive insurance is recommended for safari activities, medical emergencies and unexpected travel disruptions.