Spanning an impressive 1,978 km², Queen Elizabeth National Park (QENP) is one of Uganda’s most iconic and biodiverse protected areas. Initially established as the Lake George and Lake Edward Game Reserves in 1925, the park achieved national park status in 1952, making it one of the oldest in the country. In 1954, the park was renamed in honor of Queen Elizabeth II following her visit.

Strategically located on the equator, the park’s intersection with this global landmark is marked by concrete hoops along the Kasese road. Visitors here can enjoy an unparalleled fusion of natural beauty, wildlife diversity, and cultural experiences.

Biodiversity

Queen Elizabeth National Park is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and birdwatchers alike. It is home to over 95 mammal species, including safari favorites like elephants, lions, leopards, buffaloes, and hippos. The Kazinga Channel is particularly famous for its large hippo population.

For bird lovers, the park boasts over 600 bird species, making it one of the most prolific birding destinations in East Africa. The park’s unique location at the confluence of East African savanna and Congo rainforest ecosystems allows it to support a diverse array of flora and fauna, bridging species from both regions.

Geography

The park’s varied landscapes provide breathtaking views. Key highlights include:

  • The Rwenzori Mountains forming a jagged, majestic backdrop.
  • Rolling rift valley grasslands at Kasenyi and Ishasha.
  • Volcanic features such as the Katwe Explosion Craters.
  • The Mitumbe Mountains of Congo visible from the western shores of Lake Edward.

The park’s elevation ranges from 910m at Lake Edward to 1,350m at the Katwe Craters, offering diverse terrains to explore.

Cultural and Historical Significance

Beyond its ecological wealth, Queen Elizabeth National Park holds deep cultural and historical importance. The surrounding areas are home to communities like the Bunyaruguru on the Kichwamba Escarpment, Basongora pastoralists to the north, and Bakonzo farmers on the slopes of the Rwenzori Mountains.

Visitors have opportunities to engage with these communities through storytelling, traditional dances, and music, enriching their park experience with a glimpse into Uganda’s vibrant heritage.

WILDLIFE

Mammals

Queen Elizabeth National Park boasts the highest number of mammal species in any Ugandan park. This includes:

  • Large herbivores like elephants, buffaloes, and antelopes.
  • Predators such as lions, leopards, and hyenas.
  • Aquatic mammals like hippos that thrive in the Kazinga Channel.

Birdlife

As a designated Important Birding Area (IBA) by BirdLife International, the park offers birdwatchers a chance to spot species from both savanna and rainforest habitats. Some of the notable birds include:

  • Shoebills often found in the remote Lake Edward flats.
  • Flamingoes at the Katwe and Kyambura soda lakes.
  • Forest species like the Rwenzori turaco and white-naped pigeon.

ACCESS

By Road

  • The Fort Portal route (410 km): A scenic drive that passes through other national parks like Kibale, Semuliki, and Rwenzori Mountains.
  • The Mbarara route (420 km): Runs through Lake Mburo National Park and Bushenyi.

The park’s Ishasha sector lies conveniently along the main road to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, just 62 kmfrom Buhoma, the mountain gorilla trekking trailhead.

By Air

Chartered flights are available to airstrips at Kasese, Mweya, and Ishasha, offering a quicker and more comfortable journey for those who prefer air travel.

CLIMATE AND BEST TIME TO VISIT

Daytime temperatures average 18°C to 28°C, with cooler nights. Queen Elizabeth National Park is a year-round destination, although wildlife sightings are often more predictable during the dry seasons (June to September and December to February).

ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS

The park offers a variety of accommodations to suit all budgets and preferences:

  • Upmarket lodges: Offering luxury stays with exceptional views and services.
  • Midrange and budget lodges: Providing affordable comfort in the heart of the wilderness.
  • Self-catering options: UWA-run bungalows at Mweya, equipped with cooking facilities.
  • Campsites: Found at Mweya and Ishasha for the adventurous traveler.

ACTIVITIES AND ATTRACTIONS

Mweya Peninsula and Kazinga Channel

As the park’s main tourism hub, Mweya Peninsula offers stunning views of Lake Edward and the Kazinga Channel. Activities here include:

  • Launch cruises: A tranquil 2-hour voyage along the channel to spot hippos, crocodiles, and waterbirds.
  • Visitor Information Centre: Learn more about the park’s ecosystems and history.

Game Drives

  • Kasenyi Plains: Renowned for its Uganda kob herds and lions. Guided tours by experienced rangers enhance the chances of predator sightings.
  • Ishasha Sector: Famous for its tree-climbing lions, often seen lounging in fig trees.

Forest Walks

  • Kyambura Gorge: A forested chasm where visitors can track chimpanzees or enjoy breathtaking views from its edges.
  • Maramagambo Forest: Offers sightings of rare birds, primates, and unique geological features like the Bat Cave and Blue Lake.

Birding

Queen Elizabeth National Park is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with highlights including:

  • Migratory and resident waterbirds along the Kazinga Channel.
  • Seasonal flamingo congregations at the soda lakes.
  • Forest species like the African finfoot in Maramagambo Forest.

Volcanic Explosion Craters

  • Crater Drive: A 27 km scenic loop showcasing extinct craters filled with lakes, forests, or grasslands.
  • Katwe Salt Lake: Learn about traditional salt extraction methods dating back to the 14th century.

CONSERVATION AND COMMUNITY BENEFITS

Queen Elizabeth National Park operates on a model that shares 20% of park fees with neighboring communities to foster support for conservation and ecotourism.

Tariffs and Payments

Payments can be made in major currencies, and visitors are encouraged to use UWA’s Wildlife Card system for convenience.