Queen Elizabeth National Park

Queen Elizabeth National Park, established in 1952 and renamed in 1954 following a royal visit, is Uganda’s most visited and biodiverse national park. The park is celebrated for its breathtaking scenery, which includes sprawling savannas, lush rainforests, sparkling crater lakes, and fertile wetlands, all set against the dramatic backdrop of the Rwenzori Mountains. This remarkable variety of ecosystems supports an incredible density of wildlife, including over 95 mammal species and more than 600 species of birds.

The park offers world-class wildlife viewing and several unique attractions. Visitors can go on game drives to see classic big game such as elephants, buffalo, and antelope, but the most famous residents are the rare tree-climbing lions of the Ishasha sector. Another highlight is the Kazinga Channel, a natural waterway connecting Lake Edward and Lake George. A boat cruise here provides close-up views of massive pods of hippos, Nile crocodiles, and herds of animals coming to drink, alongside a spectacular array of water birds. For a different experience, guided walks through the Kyambura Gorge offer the chance to track habituated chimpanzees in a deep, forested ravine.

Beyond its wildlife, the park has a rich cultural heritage and significant geological features. Local communities, including the Bakonzo and Basongora, share their traditions through storytelling, dance, and cultural tours. The landscape itself tells a story of ancient volcanic activity, with dozens of explosion craters and saline lakes like Lake Katwe, where salt has been mined using traditional methods for centuries. These elements highlight the deep connection between the land, its wildlife, and its people.

Conservation and community are central to the park’s ongoing story. Managed by the Uganda Wildlife Authority, the park is part of a vast transboundary conservation area and has seen wildlife populations recover in recent years. Tourism directly benefits these efforts and local communities, offering activities like game drives, bird watching, and forest walks. Accessible by a scenic drive or a short flight from Kampala, and with a range of accommodations, Queen Elizabeth National Park provides an accessible and unforgettable window into the heart of Africa’s natural wonders.