Queen Elizabeth National Park
8 min read • Updated January 2026
Uganda's most visited park. 1,978 km² of savanna, wetlands, and forests where the Albertine Rift meets the Congo basin. 95 mammal species. 600+ bird species. And those famous tree-climbing lions.
Why Visit
- Tree-climbing lions — Ishasha sector. One of only two places in Africa.
- Kazinga Channel cruise — Hippos, elephants, crocodiles, buffalo at water's edge.
- Biodiversity — More species per square kilometer than almost anywhere on Earth.
- Accessibility — 6 hours from Kampala. Paved roads most of the way.
Key Areas
Ishasha Sector (South)
The tree-climbing lion territory. Lions here regularly climb fig trees to escape heat and tsetse flies. Best visited in the morning when lions are most active.
Kazinga Channel
32km natural channel connecting Lake Edward and Lake George. Boat cruises (2 hours) offer some of the best wildlife viewing in Uganda. Afternoon trips recommended — animals concentrate at the water as the day heats up.
Kasenyi Plains
Open savanna with excellent predator sightings. Lions, leopards, hyenas. Best for game drives.
Kyambura Gorge
The "Valley of Apes." Chimpanzee tracking through a dramatic forested gorge. A unique experience combining primates and dramatic scenery.
Best Time to Visit
Dry seasons (June-Sept, Dec-Feb): Easier drives, animals concentrate at water sources. Best for tree-climbing lion sightings.
Wet seasons (March-May, Oct-Nov): Lush landscapes, great for birding, fewer tourists. Some roads may be challenging.
Activities & Costs
| Park entry | $40/day |
| Boat cruise | $30 |
| Game drive | Included with entry |
| Chimp tracking (Kyambura) | $50 |
| Night game drive | $30 |
Getting There
- From Kampala: 6 hours by road via Mbarara
- By air: Charter flights to Kasese or Mweya airstrip
- Combine with: Bwindi (gorillas), Lake Mburo, Kibale (chimps)
© Elhaneman Tours • elhaneman.com