Spanning nearly 2,000 square kilometers, the park offers a variety of ecosystems, from sprawling savannahs and dense forests to sparkling lakes and volcanic craters. Home to an astonishing range of wildlife, including the famous tree-climbing lions, Queen Elizabeth National Park promises an unforgettable safari adventure filled with natural wonders and unique experiences.
Renowned for its remarkable biodiversity. The park boasts over 95 mammal species and 600 bird species, making it a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and birdwatchers. Game drives in the Kasenyi Plains provide visitors with the chance to spot large herds of elephants, buffaloes, antelopes, and the stealthy lions that often stalk their prey in the open savannah. The park’s rich birdlife includes the majestic African fish eagle, shoebill stork, and the colorful flamingos that frequent its saltwater lakes. For a truly thrilling experience, the Ishasha sector offers the rare opportunity to observe tree-climbing lions lounging in the branches of fig trees.
A key highlight of any visit to Queen Elizabeth National Park is the Kazinga Channel, a natural waterway that connects Lake Edward and Lake George. A boat cruise along the channel offers a front-row seat to some of Africa’s most impressive aquatic wildlife. Watch as pods of hippos bask in the water, while Nile crocodiles sunbathe along the riverbanks. The channel is also a haven for birdlife, with kingfishers, pelicans, and cormorants frequently seen swooping over the water. The boat cruise not only brings you closer to the park’s rich biodiversity but also provides stunning views of the landscape as the sun sets over the horizon.
For those seeking a primate experience, Kyambura Gorge, also known as the “Valley of Apes,” offers an extraordinary chimpanzee tracking adventure. This lush, forested gorge cuts through the savannah and is home to a small community of habituated chimpanzees. Trekking through the gorge is both thrilling and educational, as expert guides share insights about the behavior and habitat of these intelligent primates. In addition to chimpanzees, visitors might encounter other forest dwellers like black-and-white colobus monkeys, red-tailed monkeys, and an array of bird species.
Queen Elizabeth National Park is not just about wildlife; its scenic beauty is equally mesmerizing. The park features a series of ancient volcanic craters, with Lake Katwe being the most notable. This crater lake has been mined for salt for centuries, and a visit offers an opportunity to learn about the traditional salt extraction processes. The Mweya Peninsula provides breathtaking views of the Kazinga Channel and the Rwenzori Mountains in the distance. Exploring the park’s numerous crater lakes, savannahs, and wetlands reveals the diversity of Uganda’s landscapes, each offering its own unique charm.
