Queen Elizabeth National Park Safari: Complete Guide

Queen Elizabeth National Park safari experiences showcase Uganda’s richest wildlife diversity, dramatic landscapes, and iconic water-based safaris. Located in western Uganda between Lake Edward and Lake George, Queen Elizabeth National Park is one of the country’s most visited parks and a perfect complement to primate trekking in Kibale Forest and Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

This complete Queen Elizabeth National Park safari guide covers wildlife highlights, top activities, best time to visit, park sectors, accommodation options, and how to combine the park with other Uganda safari destinations.

Where Is Queen Elizabeth National Park Located?

Queen Elizabeth National Park lies in western Uganda along the Great Rift Valley, bordering Kibale Forest National Park to the north and the Democratic Republic of Congo to the west. Its central location makes it a key stop on most Uganda safari circuits.

Why Visit Queen Elizabeth National Park?

The park is famous for:

• Over 95 mammal species
• 600+ bird species
• Classic savannah wildlife and wetlands
• Boat safaris on the Kazinga Channel

Wildlife in Queen Elizabeth National Park

Visitors can expect to see:

• African elephants
• Lions and leopards
• African buffalo
• Uganda kob and waterbuck
• Hippos and Nile crocodiles

Top Safari Activities in Queen Elizabeth National Park

Game Drives

Game drives are conducted in the Kasenyi Plains and Ishasha sector, offering excellent wildlife viewing, especially lions and antelopes.

Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise

The Kazinga Channel boat cruise is a highlight, providing close-up views of hippos, crocodiles, elephants, and birdlife.

Chimpanzee Trekking in Kyambura Gorge

The Kyambura Gorge offers a unique forest setting for chimpanzee trekking within the park.

Tree-Climbing Lions of Ishasha

The Ishasha sector is famous for its tree-climbing lions, a rare behavior seen only in a few places in Africa.

Best Time to Visit Queen Elizabeth National Park

The best months are:

• June to September
• December to February

Accommodation in Queen Elizabeth National Park

Options include:

• Luxury safari lodges
• Mid-range lodges
• Budget camps and guesthouses

How Long to Spend in the Park

Most visitors spend 2–3 days to fully enjoy game drives and the boat cruise.

Combine Queen Elizabeth with Other Safaris

Queen Elizabeth National Park is commonly combined with:

• Kibale Forest National Park
• Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
• Lake Bunyonyi

Final Thoughts

A Queen Elizabeth National Park safari delivers classic African wildlife, scenic landscapes, and unforgettable boat safaris, making it an essential stop on any Uganda safari itinerary.