Queen Elizabeth National Park straddles the equator in western Uganda, encompassing a spectacular landscape of volcanic crater lakes, open savanna, dense forest, and the wildlife-rich Kazinga Channel connecting Lakes Edward and George.
The park's most famous attraction is the tree-climbing lions of the Ishasha sector in the southern reaches. These lions habitually rest in the branches of large fig trees — a behaviour shared with only one other population in Africa (Lake Manyara, Tanzania). The Kazinga Channel boat cruise is equally iconic, drifting past banks lined with hippos, elephants, buffalo, and an incredible density of waterbirds.
The Kyambura Gorge, a sunken forest carved by the Kyambura River, offers a unique chimpanzee tracking experience in a dramatic setting completely different from Kibale's canopy forest.
Everything you need to know before booking your Queen Elizabeth National Park safari — from the ideal season to budget expectations and logistics.
June to September and December to February for dry season. The Kazinga Channel boat safari is rewarding year-round. Tree-climbing lions in Ishasha are best spotted in the dry season when fig trees are fruiting.
Park fees $40/adult/day. Budget lodges from $40-100/night. Mid-range $100-300/night. Luxury $300-800/night. Kazinga Channel boat trip $30/person. Chimpanzee tracking in Kyambura $50/person. Ishasha sector lodges $80-500/night.
June to September and December to February for dry season. The Kazinga Channel boat safari is rewarding year-round. Tree-climbing lions in Ishasha are best spotted in the dry season when fig trees are fruiting.
6-7 hours by road from Kampala via Fort Portal. Charter flights to Kasese or Mweya airstrip (1.5 hours from Entebbe). Often combined with Bwindi (3-4 hours south) and Kibale Forest (2 hours north).
Queen Elizabeth National Park is known for incredible wildlife viewing. Top experiences include: Tree-climbing lions in Ishasha, Kazinga Channel boat safari, Crater lake landscapes, Chimpanzee tracking in Kyambura Gorge, Equator crossing. The specific species you'll encounter depend on the season and exact location within Queen Elizabeth National Park.
Park fees $40/adult/day. Budget lodges from $40-100/night. Mid-range $100-300/night. Luxury $300-800/night. Kazinga Channel boat trip $30/person. Chimpanzee tracking in Kyambura $50/person. Ishasha sector lodges $80-500/night.
6-7 hours by road from Kampala via Fort Portal. Charter flights to Kasese or Mweya airstrip (1.5 hours from Entebbe). Often combined with Bwindi (3-4 hours south) and Kibale Forest (2 hours north).