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Queen Elizabeth National Park

About

Queen Elizabeth National Park doesn’t feel like just one place. It feels like a collection of landscapes joined together savannah, wetlands, forests, crater lakes each with its own mood. At about 1,978 square kilometres, it’s smaller than Murchison but far more varied in character.

Queen Elizabeth National Park
Queen Elizabeth National Park

Key Highlights

The park was established in 1952 as Kazinga National Park and later renamed in 1954 to commemorate a visit by Queen Elizabeth II.

Like other parks in Uganda, it went through a difficult period during the 1970s and 80s when poaching reduced wildlife numbers. Over time, recovery efforts restored much of its biodiversity, and today it is one of the most visited parks in the country.

It also forms part of a larger ecosystem that connects to Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo, making it important for regional wildlife movement.

1. Mweya Peninsula (Central sector)

This is the heart of the park and the most visited area. It sits between Lake Edward and Lake George, connected by the famous Kazinga Channel.
What defines Mweya:
• The boat cruise along the channel—one of the best in Africa
• Huge concentrations of hippos, buffaloes, and elephants
• Easy access to lodges and game drives
It’s the most accessible and gives a strong first impression of the park.

2. Kasenyi Plains (Eastern sector)

Kasenyi is known for its open savannah and predator-prey action.
Here you’ll find:
• Large populations of Uganda kob
• Lions that often hunt in this area
• Wide, open views—good for game drives and photography
If you’re hoping to see lions hunting or resting in the grass, this is one of the best places in Uganda.

3. Ishasha Sector (Southern sector)

Ishasha feels more remote and quieter. It is famous for one thing:
• Tree-climbing lions resting in fig trees
Beyond that, it offers:
• Large herds of buffaloes
• Fewer crowds, more space
• A more untouched atmosphere
It’s a long drive to get there, but many people say it’s worth it.

4. Kyambura Gorge (Eastern edge)

Kyambura Gorge cuts deep into the savannah like a hidden world.
What makes it different:
• A lush underground forest inside a dry landscape
• Chimpanzee tracking in a dramatic setting
• Steep slopes and a river running below
It feels separate from the rest of the park—almost like stepping into another ecosystem.

5. Maramagambo Forest

This forest sector adds a different layer to the park.
Highlights include:
• Bat caves and forest walks
• Rich birdlife
• Quiet trails and crater lakes
It’s less about big animals and more about atmosphere and exploration.

• Diversity of landscapes – from open plains to forests to lakes
• Kazinga Channel – unmatched for boat-based wildlife viewing
• Tree-climbing lions in Ishasha – a rare behaviour not commonly seen elsewhere
• Combination of activities – game drives, boat cruises, chimp tracking, nature walks
• Scenic backdrop of the Rwenzori Mountains

  • Camping
  • Cave exploring
  • Long-distance travel
  • Wildlife watching

Overall Experience

Queen Elizabeth National Park is not about one highlight—it’s about variety. Each sector gives you a different experience, and moving between them feels like traveling through different parks.
If Murchison is about size and power, and Lake Mburo is about closeness, Queen Elizabeth is about balance—a bit of everything, all in one place

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Tours to Queen Elizabeth National Park

Queen Elizabeth Wildlife & Chimp Trek

Queen Elizabeth Wildlife & Chimp Trek

Kasese, Uganda

6 Days / 5 Nights 10 Details