Queen Elizabeth National Park
Explore Uganda’s most iconic savannah park, where volcano craters and winding waterways shelter abundant wildlife and unforgettable adventures.
Explore Uganda’s most iconic savannah park, where volcano craters and winding waterways shelter abundant wildlife and unforgettable adventures.
Queen Elizabeth National Park is Uganda’s most visited national park, covering approximately 1,978 square kilometers. Established in 1952, it showcases a remarkable variety of ecosystems, from open savannahs and tropical rainforests to wetlands and crater lakes. The park thrives with diverse wildlife, including the famed tree-climbing lions of Ishasha, numerous elephant and buffalo herds, and an unparalleled array of bird species. Its proximity to the Rwenzori Mountains and iconic Kazinga Channel make it a key highlight on Uganda’s safari circuit. Whether enjoying a classic game drive, a boat cruise packed with hippos and crocodiles, or the chance to observe chimpanzees in the lush Kyambura Gorge, visitors are guaranteed an immersive experience in one of East Africa’s premier safari destinations.
Queen Elizabeth National Park spans a mosaic of savannah plains, crater lakes, and wetlands framed by the Rwenzori Mountains to the north. The Kazinga Channel flows through the heart of the park, drawing large concentrations of wildlife to its shores. Volcanic explosion craters create dramatic landscapes, some filled with salty or freshwater lakes that attract flamingos and other aquatic life. The vast grasslands, punctuated by acacia trees, provide classic African safari vistas, while the Ishasha sector’s fig trees are famous for harboring tree-climbing lions.
Queen Elizabeth National Park is located in Uganda’s western region, near the equator, and experiences a tropical savannah climate. The park’s temperatures typically range between 17°C (63°F) and 30°C (86°F). The area has two distinct rainy seasons: March to May and September to November are generally considered the peak rainy periods, though rain can occur sporadically throughout the year. The dry seasons are from December to February and June to August, when rainfall is lower and daytime temperatures can be a bit higher. Overall, the park remains warm and fairly humid, but the roads and trails are most easily navigable during the drier months.
Queen Elizabeth National Park offers a wide range of activities that allow visitors to explore its diverse landscapes and encounter its abundant wildlife. From classic game drives and boat cruises to chimpanzee tracking and cultural experiences, there’s something for every type of traveler to enjoy in this iconic Ugandan park.
The dry seasons—December to February and June to August, are often regarded as the best times to visit. During these months, grasses are shorter, making it easier to spot wildlife, and animals tend to gather around water sources. The Queen Elizabeth National Park is still rewarding during the wetter months, particularly for bird enthusiasts, but be prepared for potential rainfall and muddier roads.
Queen Elizabeth National Park is home to a diverse array of wildlife, from iconic African mammals to vibrant bird species. Visitors can expect to encounter:
Queen Elizabeth National Park offers a range of lodging.
Simba Safari Lodge sits on a hill near Queen Elizabeth National Park, offering sweeping savannah views. Guests can venture on guided game drives or boat safaris to encounter Uganda’s diverse wildlife. With comfortable accommodations and friendly hospitality, it’s an ideal base for exploring this iconic safari destination.
Acacia Wilderness Lodge overlooks the sweeping savannah of Queen Elizabeth National Park, offering an intimate safari retreat. Guests can spot abundant wildlife on guided game drives or boat cruises along the Kazinga Channel. With comfortable cottages and genuine Ugandan hospitality, it provides a memorable wilderness escape.
Mweya Safari Lodge rests in the heart of Queen Elizabeth National Park, offering panoramic views of the Kazinga Channel and the Rwenzori Mountains. Guests can enjoy guided game drives, boat cruises, and abundant wildlife sightings. With comfortable accommodations and warm Ugandan hospitality, it ensures a memorable safari getaway.