Diverse Wilderness & Wildlife
Queen Elizabeth National Park is Uganda’s most visited park - established in 1952 (originally called Kazinga National Park), renamed in 1954 after a visit by Queen Elizabeth II. Its landscapes range from vast savannah plains and shady forests to wetlands, lakes, and craters. This variety creates a unique haven for wildlife, birds, primates, and beautiful scenery.
Quick Facts
- Location: Western Uganda, ~390-400 km from Kampala
- Area: 1,978 km²
- Ecosystems: Savannah, forests, lakes, craters, wetlands.
- Wildlife: Lions, leopards, elephants, hippos, Uganda kob, waterbuck, crocodiles, many primates & birds.
- Best seasons: Generally more pleasant in the drier months - when game viewing is easier and roads are more passable.
Why Visit Queen Elizabeth NP
- Maximum diversity: multiple ecosystems in one park mean you can see big game, primates, water life, and forest dwellers all in the same visit.
- Famous features like the Kazinga Channel, whose waters draw huge numbers of hippos, crocodiles, and water birds. Boat cruises here are a must.
- Uncommon sights: tree-climbing lions in the Ishasha sector.
- Forested gorges like Kyambura Gorge provide chimpanzee tracking opportunities and cooler, lush walks.
- Scenic contrast: crater lakes, wetlands, forest-savanna edges, dramatic views, plus lots of birdlife. Perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
Top Experiences & Highlights
- Guided Game Drives - Morning & evening drives through plains (Kasenyi, Mweya, Ishasha) where you’ll likely see elephants, buffaloes, lions, and leopards.
- Boat Cruise on Kazinga Channel - Watch wildlife gathering at the water’s edge; great for water birds, hippos, crocodiles.
- Chimpanzee Tracking - In Kyambura Gorge. Walk through forested gorge habitat in search of chimps & other primates.
- Night Game Drives - For spotting nocturnal species and enjoying different animal behaviors.
- Nature Walks - Through forest patches, wetlands, crater areas; great for birding & seeing smaller wildlife.
When to Visit
- Drier months are typically better: easier travel, clearer wildlife sightings.
- Rainy seasons may make some roads harder, but offer lush landscapes, fewer crowds.
Getting There
- By road from Kampala: about 6 to 7 hours (~390-400 km) depending on route.
- Domestic flights / charter options may reduce travel time, landing in airstrips closer to the park.
Wildlife & Birdlife
- Over 95 mammal species including elephants, hippos, crocodiles, lions, leopards, Uganda kob, waterbuck, and more.
- Hundreds of bird species (600+) because of the mix of habitats - savannah, wetlands, forests. Excellent for birders.
Accommodation & Stay
- Options around Mweya, Ishasha, and Mweya Peninsula - lodges, safari camps, and guesthouses depending on your style and budget.
- Some sectors provide more remote stays, giving you better access to wildlife and a more immersive experience.
Travel Tips
- Early starts are valuable: dawn game drives often yield best wildlife activity.
- Don’t skip the boat cruise - it gives a unique wildlife perspective.
- Pack binoculars and good cameras; there are many bird and wildlife photo opportunities.
- Be prepared for varied weather: warm during day, cooler by water / in forests.
Plan Your Visit
Queen Elizabeth National Park offers a compact safari: big game, rare behaviors (tree lions), forest primates, wetland life, and stunning landscapes - all in one accessible place.
Hoopoe African Expeditions can arrange your transport, lodging, drives, boat cruises, and ensure your trip fits your time and interests.
📍 Contact us to plan your Queen Elizabeth safari.