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Uganda’s most popular safari destination, Queen Elizabeth National Park is renowned for its diverse habitats, including savannahs, forests, and swamps, which support a wide variety of wildlife. This big four park is particularly famous for its tree-climbing lions – an incredible sight to see and a highlight of luxury Uganda safaris.
Must-Visit Areas in Queen Elizabeth National Park
The second largest national park in Uganda has a lot to offer safari goers, from wildlife-rich savannahs and boat safaris to seeing the king of the jungle relaxing in trees:
Kasenyi Plains: Spectacular Game Drives
The Kasenyi Plains are ideal for Uganda wildlife safaris across the savannah to see lions, elephants, and antelopes – you may even be able to witness lions hunt Uganda kobs in this area. Its proximity to Lake George affords travellers incredible lake views and opportunities for water safaris and spotting water birds.
Kazinga Channel: Exciting Water Safaris
This channel connects Lake George and Lake Edward and is one of the most vital areas in the park. The banks of this river are a lifeline for animals; they attract a number of species, from hippos and Nile crocodiles to waterbirds. An amazing way to see the wealth of wildlife is by going on a boat safari – watch elephants in the shallows as well as large herds of buffalo.
Ishasha Sector: Tree-Climbing Lions
It seems that the lions of Queen Elizabeth National Park have taken a leaf out of the book of their leopard cousins: these lions spend most of their time in trees. It’s extremely uncommon for these big cats to climb trees; theories as to why they battle with gravity include avoiding biting tsetse flies on ground level and escaping the heat. A memorable safari sight is seeing these lions, bellies full, napping in the tree branches.
When’s the Best Time to Visit Queen Elizabeth National Park?
January to February and June to July are dry months; the minimal rain makes animals easier to spot among the dry vegetation and around remaining water sources. The dry conditions are also optimal for chimpanzee trekking in the forest. For birders who are looking forward to birdwatching in Uganda, migratory birds appear in the park from November to April.
Animals Found in Queen Elizabeth National Park
Four of the Big Five can be seen in Queen Elizabeth National Park, with just rhinos being absent. Hippos are abundant in the water, as are a number of water bird species. Flamingos, shoebills, pelicans, and grey crowned cranes are just some of the over 600 species that can be spotted in the park. Chimpanzees can be found in Kyambura Gorge, a popular spot for chimpanzee trekking in Uganda.
How to Get to Queen Elizabeth National Park
After arriving at Entebbe International Airport in the capital, you can take a domestic flight to one of the airstrips close to the park, Kasese or Mweya.
