Queen Elizabeth National Park is one of Uganda’s most iconic national parks, it is located in the western region of the country. Covering an area of 1,978 square kilometers the park was established in 1952 and later renamed in 1954 to honour a visit by Queen Elizabeth II. The park is renowned for its rich wildlife hosting over 95 species of mammals and more than 600 bird species. The key attractions include the tree-climbing lions of the Ishasha sector, chimpanzee tracking in Kyambura Gorge and game drives across the open savannah. The park also plays a critical role in conservation and supports nearby communities through tourism and education initiatives. Its diverse habitats and stunning scenery make it one of the most visited and celebrated parks in East Africa.
Major Attractions in Queen Elizabeth National Park
The Stunning Landscapes of Queen Elizabeth National Park
Queen Elizabeth National Park is celebrated for its diverse landscapes the park features savannah grasslands, tropical rainforests, wetlands and volcanic craters. It also includes the shimmering waters of Lake Edward and Lake George as well as the Kazinga Channel. In the eastern part lies the Kyambura Gorge a lush forested valley home to chimpanzees and other primates. These varied habitats support a wide range of wildlife species and offer visitors a unique blend of ecosystems to explore all within a single conservation area.
Kazinga Channel
The Kazinga Channel is a natural waterway located within Queen Elizabeth National Park, connecting Lake Edward and Lake George. It is one of the park’s top tourist attractions due to the remarkable wildlife viewing opportunities it offers. The channel attracts a wide range of animals that come from the surrounding savannah to drink, cool off and graze along its lush banks and it is also a vital water source in the region which plays a crucial role in supporting both the park’s ecosystem.
Tree Climbing lions at Ishasha sector
One of the most unique and fascinating attractions in Queen Elizabeth National Park is the population of tree-climbing lions found in the Ishasha Sector, located in the southern part of the park. Unlike most lions that spend their time on the ground these rare lions can often be seen lounging in the branches of trees especially during the heat of the day. This unusual behaviour is believed to help them escape the biting insects on the ground and get a better view of potential prey such as Uganda kobs that roam the open plains.
Chimpanzee Trekking in Kyambura Gorge
Chimpanzee trekking is an immersive wildlife experience in Queen Elizabeth National Park. The best place for this activity is the Kyambura Gorge often referred to as the Valley of Apes. Guided treks take visitors deep into the gorge where they can witness the chimps as they swing through the trees in search for food, communicate with each other and display remarkably human like behaviours. Along the way trekkers may also encounter other primates, birds and beautiful forest scenery.
Cultural Encounters Around Queen Elizabeth National Park
Queen Elizabeth National Park offers rich cultural experiences that allow visitors to connect with the local communities living around the park. Tourists can engage in village visits, traditional dance performances, storytelling sessions and guided tours led by community members. These encounters provide insights into the customs, lifestyles and traditions of the Banyankole, Bakonzo and Basongora people of Uganda among others.
Which is the best time to visit the Park?
The best time to visit Queen Elizabeth National Park is from the month June to September and mid-December to February, which are the dry seasons. During this time wildlife is easier to spot as animals gather around rivers and water sources making game drives and boat safaris more rewarding.