Queen Elizabeth National Park

Diverse landscapes where Uganda’s wildlife thrives in natural harmony.

Queen Elizabeth National Park combines vast savannahs, lush forests, dazzling lakes, and rich wetlands to create a spectacular safari location. It is home to iconic wildlife, rich birdlife, and the famous Kazinga Channel, making it an unforgettable experience for both nature enthusiasts and adventurers.

Area

1,978 sq km

Established

1952

Location

Southwestern

Altitude

910 - 1,350 m

Climate

Warm Tropical

Terrain

Savannah Plains

Fauna

Lions

Flora

Acacia Woodland

Home to tree-climbing lions and thrilling wildlife viewing adventures.

Queen Elizabeth National Park stretches across a rich mosaic of landscapes, from golden savannah plains to lush forests, volcanic craters, and shimmering lakes. Every corner promises a unique blend of beauty and adventure.


Framed by the majestic Rwenzori Mountains, the park presents breathtaking views of crater lakes carved into rolling hills. Along the Kazinga Channel, hippos, elephants, and buffalo gather, while Ishasha’s fig trees shelter elusive tree-climbing lions.

Beyond wildlife encounters, the park is a cultural treasure. Local communities share traditional dances, storytelling, and music, giving visitors an authentic taste of Ugandan heritage. Opportunities for cultural exchange make every visit deeply memorable.


Visitors can enjoy diverse activities such as boat cruises, chimpanzee trekking, birdwatching, nature walks, and hot air ballooning. Queen Elizabeth National Park is a year-round destination, with its peak wildlife experiences best enjoyed between June and September and December and January.

Best Time to Visit Queen Elizabeth

Queen Elizabeth National Park provides excellent animal encounters throughout the year, with peak game viewing occurring during the dry months. Wet months bring lush landscapes, fewer crowds, and scenic beauty, yet rain can occasionally disrupt planned activities.

Best Time

January to February

High Season

June to September

Low Season

April to May

Best Weather

June to July

Best Time

January to February

High Season

June to September

Low Season

April to May

Best Weather

June to July

Explore East Africa’s Top Safari Packages

Discover an incredible collection of East Africa’s best safari packages. From thrilling game drives and breathtaking landscapes to rich cultures and abundant wildlife, find the perfect journey across Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda, and Rwanda.

Why Visit Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda’s Wildlife Gem

Queen Elizabeth National Park is one of Uganda’s most iconic safari destinations. Its vast landscapes, rivers, and crater lakes create a sanctuary where both wildlife and culture thrive together.

The park is famous for its large number of animals, from elephants and buffalo to hippos and antelopes. Visitors often set out on game drives to watch wildlife grazing on open plains or resting under scattered trees.

Beyond mammals, the park is a paradise for bird enthusiasts. With more than 600 bird species recorded, it is one of the best places in East Africa for birdwatching safaris.

Queen Elizabeth is also known for its unique experiences like lion tracking, chimpanzee trekking in Kyambura Gorge, and boat cruises on Kazinga Channel. These activities make every visit a journey of discovery and adventure.

Cultural tourism also plays an important role here. Visitors can meet nearby communities, learn about traditional crafts, and enjoy music and dance performances that share the stories of the local people. These interactions create a deeper connection to Uganda’s way of life.

Evenings in Queen Elizabeth are peaceful, with glowing sunsets over crater lakes and the distant call of hippos echoing through the air. It is a place where nature feels close and time seems to slow, leaving travelers with lasting memories.

The park’s diverse scenery adds to its appeal. From savannah plains to tropical forests, wetlands, and volcanic craters, every part of Queen Elizabeth feels different. This variety ensures that each drive or walk brings new views and wildlife encounters.

One of the park’s most captivating sights is the tree-climbing lions of the Ishasha sector. Seeing these majestic animals resting on fig branches is rare and unforgettable, making it a highlight for photographers and nature lovers alike.

Frequently Asked Questions About Uganda Safari Adventures

Uganda is home to over half of the world’s mountain gorillas, making gorilla trekking its highlight. It also offers chimpanzee trekking, diverse wildlife, snow-capped mountains, and savannah safaris all in one trip.

What makes Uganda a special safari destination?

Uganda is home to over half of the world’s mountain gorillas, making gorilla trekking its highlight. It also offers chimpanzee trekking, diverse wildlife, snow-capped mountains, and savannah safaris all in one trip.

Uganda can be visited year-round, but the drier months of December to February and June to September provide easier trekking conditions and better wildlife sightings. Rainy seasons make trails more challenging but still rewarding.

Yes. Uganda is considered safe for visitors, with hospitable locals and well-organized safari operators. Guides ensure your comfort, and most areas frequented by tourists are secure and welcoming.

Uganda is more affordable than Kenya, Tanzania, or Rwanda. While gorilla permits add cost, overall safari prices remain budget-friendly, with options ranging from mid-range to luxury experiences.

You’ll find fresh, international-style dishes at lodges, often made with local produce. Some properties host “Ugandan nights” featuring traditional meals such as matoke, grilled meats, and maize-based dishes.

Yes, moderate fitness is required. Treks can last up to six hours through hilly, forested terrain. Chimpanzee trekking is usually shorter but still requires comfort with walking long distances.

Absolutely. Ugandans are welcoming to families, and safaris can be tailored for all ages. Children under 15 cannot trek gorillas, but they can enjoy other wildlife and cultural activities.

Yes, Uganda is popular with solo travellers. Guides ensure safety, and small lodges offer friendly environments to meet other travellers. Solo itineraries can also be customized for flexibility and budget.

For gorilla trekking, book at least 12–18 months ahead as permits are limited and in high demand. For other activities, a few months ahead is usually sufficient.

Most safaris use 4WD vehicles for road trips between parks. Domestic flights on small aircraft connect key destinations like Bwindi and Murchison Falls. Both options provide scenic and safe travel experiences.

Explore East Africa’s Timeless Safari Destinations

Journey across Tanzania, Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda, where landscapes shift from endless savannahs to misty mountains. Witness lions roaming the Serengeti, gorillas in Rwanda’s volcanoes, and elephants crossing Kenya’s plains. Each destination offers its own beauty, culture, and rhythm, creating a safari experience that defines East Africa’s untamed soul.

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"We had a fantastic time with Kingse Safari’s. We went from Arusha, to Ngorongoro and Serengeti. Peter was an awesome guide. Very knowledgeable and a skilled driver."

Jon H

JON H

Incredible Trip

"Amazing experience from start to finish! The guides were knowledgeable and friendly."

Anna L

ANNA L

Safari Adventure

"We had a fantastic time with Kingse Safari’s. We went from Arusha, to Ngorongoro and Serengeti. Peter was an awesome guide. Very knowledgeable and a skilled driver."

Jon H

JON H

Incredible Trip

"Amazing experience from start to finish! The guides were knowledgeable and friendly."

Anna L

ANNA L

Safari Adventure

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Find out how amazing East Africa's safaris are, with lions roaming, boundless plains, & vibrant civilizations. Visit Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda, & Rwanda, where every sunrise feels fresh & every trip makes you want to go deeper into Africa's untamed heart.