Queen Elizabeth National Park 

ABOUT THE PARK

Queen Elizabeth National Park spans the equator line; monuments on either side of the road marking the exact spot where it crosses latitude 00.

The park was founded in 1952 as Kazinga National Park and renamed two years later to commemorate a visit by Queen Elizabeth II of England.

The park is home to over 95 mammal species and over 600 bird species.

The Katwe explosion craters mark the park’s highest point at 1,350m above sea level, while the lowest point is at 910m, at Lake Edward.

Queen Elizabeth National Park is understandably Uganda’s most popular tourist destination. The park’s diverse ecosystems, which include sprawling savanna, shady, humid forests, sparkling lakes, and fertile wetlands, make it the ideal habitat for a classic big game, ten primate species including chimpanzees, and over 600 species of birds.

Set against the backdrop of the jagged Rwenzori Mountains, the park’s magnificent vistas include dozens of enormous craters carved dramatically into rolling green hills, panoramic views of the Kazinga Channel with its banks lined with hippos, buffalo, and elephants, and the endless Ishasha plains, whose fig trees hide lions ready to pounce on herds of unsuspecting Uganda kob.

As well as its outstanding wildlife attractions, Queen Elizabeth National Park has a fascinating cultural history. There are many opportunities for visitors to meet the local communities and enjoy storytelling, dance, music, and more. The gazetting of the park has ensured the conservation of its ecosystems, which in turn benefits the surrounding communities.

Most of Queen Elizabeth comprises open grassland and savannah which tends to be moist and woody in the west than the eastern part, Thorny Acacia dominates this savannah habitant with the high concentration of candelabra shrub a cactus that grows along the kazinga channel and on the kasenyi plains.

Queen Elizabeth supports at least 95 species of mammals,it boasts of 20 carnivores like the Lion,Leopards, side stripped jackal and spotted hyena among others.

Uganda’s Queen Elizabeth National Park is truly a Medley of Wonders!

GREEN PARKS

Uganda’s national parks and reserves exemplify environmental stewardship and climate-friendly practices, with all areas adhering to sustainable management principles that preserve biodiversity and natural habitats. We ensure that the natural landscapes remain pristine and resilient against climate change.

TOURIST ATTRACTION AT QUEEN ELIZABETH

Queen Elizabeth National Park in Uganda is one of the country’s most popular wildlife destinations, offering a wide range of attractions for tourists. Here are some of the key highlights:

Wildlife Viewing:

1. Game Drives:

• Experience: Explore the park’s savannahs and woodlands to spot a variety of wildlife, including elephants, buffaloes, lions, leopards, and a range of antelopes such as kobs and waterbucks.

1. Tree-Climbing Lions:

• Location: Ishasha Sector.
• Highlight: Known for its unique population of lions that climb trees, a rare behavior among lions.

1. Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise:

• Experience: Take a boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel, which connects Lake Edward and Lake George. It’s an excellent way to see large populations of hippos, crocodiles, and numerous bird species.

Bird Watching:

1. Bird Species:

• Notable Birds: Queen Elizabeth is home to over 600 bird species. Highlights include the African fish eagle, the shoebill stork, and the rare papyrus gonolek.

1. Maramagambo Forest:

• Experience: A rich bird-watching area within the forest, known for its diverse avian population.

Scenic Landscapes:

1. Crater Lakes:

• Notable Lakes: Visit the park’s volcanic crater lakes, such as Lake Katwe, which offers stunning views and an opportunity to learn about salt mining.

1. Rwenzori Mountains View:

• Experience: Enjoy panoramic views of the Rwenzori Mountains, also known as the Mountains of the Moon, from various points in the park.

Cultural and Community Experiences:

1. Bakiga and Banyankole Cultures:

• Experience: Engage with local communities to learn about their traditional ways of life, including their customs, dances, and crafts.

1. Village Walks:

• Experience: Participate in guided walks through nearby villages to gain insight into local cultures and community life.

Forest Walks:

1. Maramagambo Forest Walk:

• Experience: Explore the dense Maramagambo Forest, known for its rich biodiversity, including primates like the blue monkeys and a variety of bird species.

1. Kyambura Gorge:

• Experience: Trek through this dramatic gorge, also known as the “Valley of Apes,” which is home to chimpanzees and offers unique forest experiences.

Conservation and Research:

1. Wildlife Research Centers:

• Experience: Visit research centers and conservation projects to learn about ongoing efforts to protect the park’s wildlife and habitats.

Activities:

1. Night Game Drives:

• Experience: For a different perspective, join a night game drive to spot nocturnal animals like bush babies, lions, and leopards.

1. Nature Walks:

• Experience: Join guided nature walks to explore the park’s diverse ecosystems, including grasslands, forests, and wetlands.

Queen Elizabeth National Park offers a rich tapestry of experiences, from thrilling wildlife encounters and scenic views to cultural immersion and peaceful boat cruises. It’s a versatile destination with something to offer for every type of traveler.

ACCOMODATION

Queen Elizabeth National Park offers a diverse range of accommodation options to suit various preferences and budgets. Here’s a look at some of the notable places to stay:

Luxury Lodges:

1. Mweya Safari Lodge

• Location: On the Mweya Peninsula overlooking the Kazinga Channel.
• Features: Offers a range of accommodations including suites and deluxe rooms with spectacular views. Amenities include a swimming pool, restaurant, and guided tours.

1. Ishasha Wilderness Camp

• Location: In the Ishasha Sector of the park, known for its tree-climbing lions.
• Features: Provides luxury tented accommodation with en-suite facilities. The camp offers a unique experience with excellent access to game drives in the Ishasha area.

1. Kasenyi Safari Camp

• Location: Near the Kasenyi plains, ideal for game drives.
• Features: Provides comfortable tented accommodation with stunning views of the savannah. The camp includes a restaurant and organized game drives.

Mid-Range Lodges:

1. Queen Elizabeth Bush Lodge

• Location: Near the park’s boundary.
• Features: Offers well-appointed tents with en-suite bathrooms. The lodge provides a cozy atmosphere and a variety of activities including game drives and boat cruises.

1. Kyambura Gorge Lodge

• Location: Overlooking the Kyambura Gorge.
• Features: Includes comfortable bandas with a view of the gorge. The lodge offers guided walks, chimpanzee tracking, and cultural experiences.

1. The Bush Lodge

• Location: Near the park’s main entrance.
• Features: Provides comfortable tented accommodations with a rustic feel. It offers good access to both game drives and boat cruises.

Budget and Community-Based Options:

1. Pumba Safari Cottages

• Location: Near the park entrance.
• Features: Offers affordable cottages with basic amenities. It provides a more budget-friendly option while still being close to the park’s attractions.

1. Enjojo Lodge

• Location: In the Ishasha Sector.
• Features: A budget-friendly option offering simple but comfortable accommodations with a focus on value for money.

1. Big Cave Camp

• Location: Near the Maramagambo Forest.
• Features: Offers budget-friendly tented accommodations and provides opportunities for nature walks and cultural interactions.

Camping:

1. Queen Elizabeth National Park Campsites

• Location: Within the park.
• Features: Basic camping facilities are available at designated campsites. You’ll need to bring your own camping gear. This is a more immersive and budget-friendly way to experience the park.

Luxury and Unique Experiences:

1. Katara Lodge

• Location: Overlooking Lake Edward.
• Features: Offers luxury accommodation with stunning views, an infinity pool, and gourmet dining. It’s known for its exclusivity and exceptional service.

These accommodation options provide a range of experiences, from luxurious lodges with breathtaking views to budget-friendly campsites that allow for a more adventurous stay. The choice of where to stay will depend on your preferences, budget, and desired proximity to the park’s attractions.

HOW TO GET TO THE PARK

Getting to Queen Elizabeth National Park involves several options depending on your starting point and preferences. Here’s a guide on how to reach the park:

By Air:

1. Domestic Flights:

• Entebbe to Kasese: The most common domestic flight option is to fly from Entebbe International Airport to Kasese Airstrip, which is close to the park. The flight typically takes around 1 hour. From the airstrip, you can arrange for a transfer to the park, which takes about 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the specific lodge or camp.

1. Charter Flights:

• Private Charters: You can also arrange private charter flights to airstrips closer to the park or directly to the park’s designated airstrips. This can be a convenient option for those seeking a more personalized and quicker journey.

By Road:

1. From Kampala:

• Distance: Approximately 400 kilometers (about 250 miles).
• Travel Time: Around 6-7 hours.
• Route: Drive southwest from Kampala via Mbarara. The main route is the Kampala-Mbarara highway, and from Mbarara, you can take the road to the park’s various entry gates, such as the Nyakabare or Katunguru gates.

1. From Mbarara:

• Distance: Approximately 150 kilometers (about 93 miles).
• Travel Time: Around 2-3 hours.
• Route: Travel west from Mbarara on the road that leads to the park. This route is well-marked and connects to the park’s various entry points.

1. From Bwindi Impenetrable Forest:

• Distance: Approximately 150 kilometers (about 93 miles).
• Travel Time: Around 3-4 hours.
• Route: Travel north from Bwindi through Kisoro and then connect to the roads leading to the park.

1. From Fort Portal:

• Distance: Approximately 80 kilometers (about 50 miles).
• Travel Time: Around 1.5-2 hours.
• Route: Head southwest from Fort Portal on the road that leads directly to the park, with entry points like the Kyambura or Maramagambo gates.

By Public Transport:

1. Buses and Matatus:

• Options: Several bus companies operate services between Kampala and various towns near the park, such as Kasese or Mbarara. From these towns, you can arrange for a taxi or local transport to the park.

1. Shared Taxis:

• Options: Shared taxis or matatus can be used for shorter trips from nearby towns like Kasese to the park’s entry points.

Guided Transfers:

1. Tour Operators:

• Options: Many tour operators offer packages that include transportation to Queen Elizabeth National Park. These packages typically include both road and air travel options and can be a convenient way to arrange your trip.

1. Lodge Transfers:

• Options: Many lodges and camps in and around the park offer transfer services from major cities or airstrips. It’s worth checking with your accommodation provider to see if they offer shuttle services.

Driving Tips:

• Road Conditions: Some roads leading to the park can be rough or under construction, so a 4WD vehicle is often recommended, especially during the rainy season.
• Navigation: Using GPS or a reliable map is advised, as some routes may not be well-signposted.
• Travel Advisories: Check local travel advisories and road conditions before setting out.

Whether you choose to fly or drive, getting to Queen Elizabeth National Park is relatively straightforward, and the journey offers opportunities to enjoy Uganda’s diverse landscapes.