Destination
Type
Jun-Oct
Best Time
About Queen Elizabeth National Park
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.
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Why Visit Queen Elizabeth National Park
The top experiences that make Queen Elizabeth National Park worth the journey.
Plan Your Visit to Queen Elizabeth National Park
Everything you need to know before booking your Queen Elizabeth National Park safari — from the ideal season to budget expectations and logistics.
Best Time to Visit Queen Elizabeth National Park
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.
What It Costs
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.
Getting There
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).
Destinations Near Queen Elizabeth National Park
Combine Queen Elizabeth National Park with these nearby destinations for a multi-stop safari itinerary.
Frequently Asked Questions About Queen Elizabeth National Park
What is the best time to visit Queen Elizabeth National Park?
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.
How do I get to Queen Elizabeth National Park?
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).
What wildlife can I see in Queen Elizabeth National Park?
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.
How much does a Queen Elizabeth National Park safari cost?
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.
