Queen Elizabeth National Park - Discovering Uganda

Travelling to Queen Elizabeth National Park

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Queen Elizabeth National Park, a pretty good destination in Uganda (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Queen Elizabeth National Park and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Queen Elizabeth National Park, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Uganda, here's everything to know about Queen Elizabeth National Park for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Queen Elizabeth National Park

Queen Elizabeth National Park is a wildlife reserve located in southwestern Uganda, and it is classified as a savanna grassland biome. The park covers an area of approximately 1,978 square kilometers and it is famous for its diverse wildlife, including elephants, lions, buffaloes, leopards, hippos, crocodiles, and several species of primates. It is also home to over 600 species of birds, making it one of the best birding destinations in Africa. The park is divided into several areas, including the Mweya Peninsula, the Kazinga Channel, the Ishasha Sector, and the Kyambura Gorge. Visitors can enjoy activities such as game drives, boat safaris, chimpanzee tracking, and nature walks. The best time to visit the park is during the dry season, which usually runs from June to September and December to February.

What to visit in Queen Elizabeth National Park

Certainly! Queen Elizabeth National Park is known for its diverse wildlife, stunning landscapes and unique experiences. Here are some of the top tourist attractions: 1. Kazinga Channel: This is a wide, natural waterway that connects Lake Edward and Lake George. It is a popular spot for boat safaris where visitors can see a range of wildlife, including hippos, crocodiles, and various bird species.
2. Kasenyi Plains: This scenic area is known for its huge population of lions, as well as other game like elephants, buffalos, and antelopes. Visitors can go on game drives to see these animals in their natural habitat.
3. Kyambura Gorge: This deep, forested gorge is home to a community of chimpanzees that can be seen on guided chimpanzee trekking tours. Visitors can also see a variety of other primates, including baboons and colobus monkeys.
4. Ishasha Plains: Located in the southern part of the park, these grassy plains are home to the famous tree-climbing lions. Visitors can take game drives to see these lions as well as elephants, buffalos, and various bird species.
5. Mweya Peninsula: This scenic peninsula offers fantastic panoramic views of the park's vast savannah plains, as well as Lake Edward and the Rwenzori Mountains. Visitors can take nature walks, go bird watching, or simply relax and take in the stunning scenery.
Overall, Queen Elizabeth National Park offers a wealth of amazing experiences for visitors who love wildlife, breathtaking landscapes, and unforgettable adventures.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Uganda, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Queen Elizabeth National Park.

When to go on holiday to Queen Elizabeth National Park

The best time to go on a holiday to Queen Elizabeth National Park in Uganda is during the dry season, which runs from June to September and from December to February. During this time, the grass is shorter, making it easier to spot wildlife, and the weather is generally pleasant with lower humidity levels. However, it's worth noting that the dry season is also the park's busiest time, which means that some areas can get crowded and prices may be higher. If you're looking for a quieter experience, it's best to go during the low season from March to May or October to November, although be aware that this is also the rainy season.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Queen Elizabeth National Park

There are a couple of ways to get to Queen Elizabeth National Park in Uganda: 1. By Air: The nearest airport is the Kasese Airport, which is located approximately 40km from the park. Several domestic airlines operate flights to Kasese from Entebbe International Airport or other airports within Uganda. Once you reach Kasese, you can hire a taxi or arrange for a transfer to the park.
2. By Road: Queen Elizabeth National Park is approximately a 7-hour drive from the capital city of Kampala. The park can be accessed through the Kampala-Mbarara highway, which passes close to the park. Alternatively, you can take a bus or matatu (shared taxi) to Kasese from Kampala or any other major town.
Upon reaching the park, you can either take a guided safari tour or rent a car and drive yourself around the park.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Queen Elizabeth National Park, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Queen Elizabeth National Park

Here are some typical foods of Queen Elizabeth National Park in Uganda with a short description for each of them: 1. Matooke: Matooke is a popular food in Uganda, made from steamed green bananas. It is usually served with a sauce made from groundnuts or meat.
2. Ugali: Ugali is a type of maize porridge, similar to polenta or grits. It is a staple food in many parts of Uganda and is usually eaten with a sauce or stew.
3. Chapati: Chapati is a type of flatbread that is popular in many parts of East Africa, including Uganda. It is made from wheat flour, water, and salt, and is usually served with stew or curry.
4. Meat skewers: Meat skewers are a popular snack or appetizer in Uganda, especially in the Queen Elizabeth National Park area. They are typically made from grilled beef, goat, or chicken and can be seasoned with spices like cumin, coriander, and ginger.
5. Rolex: Rolex is a popular street food in Uganda, which is similar to a wrap or burrito. It is made from a thin omelet, which is rolled up with chapati and filled with vegetables like tomatoes, onions, and cabbage.
6. Beans: Beans are a common food in Uganda, particularly in rural areas. They are usually served with rice or ugali and are often cooked with spices, onions, and tomatoes.
7. Matoke with groundnut sauce: Matoke is a popular food in Uganda, made from steamed green bananas. It is usually served with a sauce made from groundnuts, which are pounded and roasted to create a creamy, nutty flavor.
8. Nile perch: The Nile perch is a freshwater fish that is found in Lake Victoria, which is close to Queen Elizabeth National Park. It is a popular dish in the area and is usually grilled or fried and served with a side of vegetables.
You can find general info about typical foods in Uganda here.

Is Queen Elizabeth National Park an expensive destination for tourists?

Queen Elizabeth National Park in Uganda is not considered to be an expensive destination for tourists when compared to other popular safari destinations in Africa. However, the cost of a trip to the park will depend on factors such as the duration of the trip, accommodation choices, and activities selected.
Some budget-friendly options for accommodation in and around the park include camping and lodges, while luxury options such as safari lodges and tented camps are also available. Game drives, boat cruises, and guided nature walks are some activities that can be organized within the park.
Overall, while some expenses are associated with traveling to Queen Elizabeth National Park, it is generally considered to be a relatively affordable and worthwhile destination for those interested in wildlife and nature.

Where to find accomodation in Queen Elizabeth National Park

The best areas to find accommodation for visiting Queen Elizabeth National Park in Uganda are: 1. The town of Kasese: This is the nearest town to the park and has various budget and mid-range accommodation options.
2. Kasenyi area: It is located on the northern side of the park and has several campsites, lodges and luxury safari tents.
3. Kyambura gorge area: It is located in the eastern side of the park and ideally placed for chimp treks. It has some luxury lodges and budget guesthouses.
4. Mweya peninsula: It is located in the western side of the park and offers high-end luxury lodges. It is also where most game drives and boat safaris begin.
5. Ishasha area: It is located in the southern region of the park and offers campsites, lodges and guesthouses and is renowned for its tree climbing lions.
You can check hotel prices at Queen Elizabeth National Park here:
Booking.com

Is Queen Elizabeth National Park a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Queen Elizabeth National Park in Uganda is generally considered a safe place for tourists. However, like any other destination, it is important to take certain precautions and be mindful of your surroundings. It is recommended that visitors follow the rules and regulations of the park, stay on designated paths and roads while on game drives, and avoid walking alone in the park at night. It is also advisable to travel with a reputable tour company and to obtain adequate travel insurance before embarking on a trip to Queen Elizabeth National Park.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Uganda here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Queen Elizabeth National Park.

What type of travelers will enjoy Queen Elizabeth National Park the most?

Queen Elizabeth National Park in Uganda has something to offer to different types of travelers. Here's how different types of travelers can enjoy the park: 1. Couples: Couples can enjoy a romantic getaway in Queen Elizabeth National Park, thanks to its stunning landscapes, intimate lodges, and romantic experiences such as sunset boat cruises on the Kazinga Channel and game drives through the park.
2. Young people looking for fun: Queen Elizabeth National Park is an excellent destination for young people looking for fun and adventure, as it offers activities such as chimpanzee tracking, hiking, bird watching, and hot air balloon safaris.
3. Families: Families can enjoy a memorable family vacation at Queen Elizabeth National Park, as it offers a range of activities suited for all ages, such as game drives, nature walks, and cultural visits to local communities.
In summary, Queen Elizabeth National Park in Uganda is a versatile destination that can offer different things to different types of travelers.

How to get around Queen Elizabeth National Park

The most common modes of transportation for moving around Queen Elizabeth National Park in Uganda are 4x4 safari vehicles and guided walking safaris. Some lodges within the park also offer boat safaris for exploring the waterways. Private charter flights can also be arranged for a more exclusive and time-efficient way of getting around the park. It's important to note that during the rainy season, some roads within the park can become muddy and difficult to navigate, so 4x4 vehicles are recommended.

What to see around Queen Elizabeth National Park

Sure, here are some nice places to visit on a day trip from Queen Elizabeth National Park in Uganda: 1. Kazinga Channel: This is a natural waterway that connects Lake George and Lake Edward in Queen Elizabeth National Park. You can take a boat tour to see hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species.
2. Kyambura Gorge: This was formed by the Kyambura River and is home to a variety of wildlife including chimpanzees, baboons, and colobus monkeys. You can take a guided nature walk to explore the gorge.
3. Maramagambo Forest: Located just outside the national park, Maramagambo Forest is a great place for birdwatching and hiking. You can also visit the bat cave, which is home to thousands of bats.
4. Ishasha Sector: This is a remote area in the southern part of Queen Elizabeth National Park. Here you can spot the famous tree-climbing lions, as well as a variety of other wildlife.
5. Katwe Salt Lake: This is a salt extraction site located outside the national park. You can take a tour to see how salt is extracted from the lake and learn about the local community.
For every travel information about Uganda you can click here.

Wild Trips is the Wikipedia of travel: in the unfortunate case you find an error, please write to us to correct it... Thank you!
Follow us on Facebook if you like wild trips around the world and beautiful itineraries in Italy: https://www.facebook.com/wildtrips.