Queen Elizabeth National Park is one of Uganda’s most iconic and diverse wildlife areas, located in the western region. It covers 1,978 km² within the Albertine Rift Valley, between Lake Edward and Lake George, spanning Kasese, Kamwenge, Rubirizi, and Rukungiri districts. Established in 1952 and named after Queen Elizabeth II in 1954, it remains one of East Africa’s top safari destinations.
The park features a stunning mix of savannah, forests, crater lakes, wetlands, and the famous Kazinga Channel. This range of habitats supports over 95 mammal species, including elephants, buffaloes, lions, leopards, warthogs, hyenas, and the rare tree-climbing lions of Ishasha. The Kazinga Channel teems with hippos, crocodiles, and is a hotspot for birders, boasting over 600 bird species like shoebills, kingfishers, and African fish eagles.
Top activities include the Kazinga boat cruise, which offers close views of wildlife along the water. In the east, Kyambura Gorge is popular for chimpanzee tracking. Crater lakes like Lake Katwe, known for salt mining, and Lake Munyanyange, a seasonal flamingo stopover, add to the appeal. Visitors can also engage in cultural experiences with local communities.
With the Rwenzori Mountains as a backdrop, the park blends rich biodiversity with scenic beauty. It’s a top pick for nature lovers, bird watchers, photographers, and anyone seeking an authentic Ugandan safari. Its accessibility, wildlife, and variety of attractions make it a jewel in Uganda’s tourism crown.
