Queen Elizabeth

Between the Rwenzori Mountains and Lake Edward lies Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda’s most famous safari destination. Open savannahs, crater lakes, lush forests and the renowned Kazinga Channel provide a breathtaking backdrop for encounters with lions, elephants, hippos and hundreds of bird species. A paradise for nature and wildlife lovers.

Landscape of Queen Elizabeth National Park
Elephant in Queen Elizabeth National Park
Lions relaxing in a tree
Boat safari in Queen Elizabeth National Park
Baby monkey with its mother
Warthog in the park’s thicket
Hippo in the Kazinga Channel
Kazinga Channel Kazinga Channel
year-round year-round
Midrange price level Midrange price level
2–3 Days 2–3 Days

Queen Elizabeth National Park is one of Uganda’s most diverse and well-known wildlife reserves. It covers about 1,978 km² in the western Rift Valley between Lake George and Lake Edward. The landscape is shaped by open savannahs, lush wetlands, papyrus swamps and countless crater lakes dotted like pearls across the scenery.

The Kazinga Channel, a natural waterway linking Lake Edward and Lake George, is one of the park’s major highlights. Large herds of hippos, Nile crocodiles and numerous waterbirds thrive here. In the southern part lies the Ishasha sector, famous for its tree-climbing lions. While lions almost never climb trees in most African parks, here they are often seen lounging high in the branches of fig trees.

Queen Elizabeth National Park captivates visitors not only with its wildlife but also with its varied landscapes and spectacular views of the nearby Rwenzori Mountains.

animals-queen-elizabeth

Wildlife in Queen Elizabeth National Park

Herds of elephants roam the savannahs, while lions, especially in Ishasha, are often spotted resting in trees. Leopards can be found in denser bush areas. Hippos crowd the Kazinga Channel and share the waters with giant Nile crocodiles. Along the shores, warthogs, waterbucks, and buffaloes are frequently seen, while Uganda kobs, topis, and bushbucks gather in large groups across the plains.

Over 600 bird species have been recorded in the park, including African fish eagles, bee-eaters, spoonbills and occasionally the elusive shoebill.

Highlights

  • 01

    Kazinga Channel

    This natural waterway connects Lake Edward and Lake George. Boat trips here offer close-up views of hippos, crocodiles and numerous bird species.

  • 02

    Tree-Climbing Lions

    In the park’s southern sector, you can observe lions lounging high in fig trees—a rare behavior in Africa that has made the Ishasha area world-famous.

  • 03

    Crater Lakes Landscape

    Numerous extinct volcanic craters shape a stunning landscape of deep blue lakes and lush green slopes, perfect for photo stops and short hikes.

  • 04

    Birdlife

    With over 600 bird species, the park is one of Africa’s richest birding destinations. From pelicans and flamingos to rare spoonbills, it offers spectacular sightings.

Activities

Game Drive

Discover elephants, lions and antelopes on thrilling safaris.

Game drive in Queen Elizabeth National Park

Boat Safari

Watch hippos, crocodiles and birds up close from the water.

Boat safari on the Kazinga Channel

Bird Watching

Explore the park’s incredible bird diversity.

Bird watching in Queen Elizabeth National Park

Balloon Safari

Experience the savannah from above on a hot air balloon ride.

Balloon safari over the savannah

Getting There

By Car

By Car

From Kampala, Queen Elizabeth National Park can be reached in around 6 to 7 hours, mostly on good roads. The route passes through some of Uganda’s most scenic regions.

By Plane

By Plane

Daily flights connect Entebbe to Mweya Airstrip near Queen Elizabeth National Park. The flight takes about 1.5 hours.

Ready for your adventure?

Whether gorilla trekking, boat safaris or hiking in the Rwenzoris—Uganda awaits you!

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