Queen Elizabeth National Park
Western Uganda Region
Queen Elizabeth National Park, located in Uganda's Western Region, spans nearly 2,000 square kilometers and is renowned for its rich biodiversity and varied ecosystems. Established in 1952 as Kazinga National Park and renamed in 1954 after Queen Elizabeth II's visit, it encompasses savannas, tropical forests, wetlands, lakes, and volcanic features such as the Katwe Explosion Craters. The park hosts over 95 mammal species including elephants, buffalo, hippopotamus, leopards, hyenas, and notably, the unique tree-climbing lions found in the Ishasha sector. It is also home to more than 600 bird species, making it a birdwatcher's paradise. The Kazinga Channel, a 40-kilometer waterway connecting Lake Edward and Lake George, is a focal point for observing large concentrations of hippos, crocodiles, and water birds. Conservation efforts continue to protect its wildlife, including lion populations monitored by the Uganda Carnivore Program. The park's scenic backdrop includes the Rwenzori Mountains, enhancing its appeal for visitors seeking both wildlife and spectacular landscapes.
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Tip: Visit during the dry season for optimal wildlife viewing, especially from June to September and December to February. Book park entry and guided game drives in advance to secure availability. Take advantage of available discounts for East African residents. Prepare for early morning or late afternoon game drives to see active animals and cooler temperatures. Bring binoculars and camera with zoom lenses for birdwatching and spotting elusive wildlife. Respect park regulations and support conservation efforts by using authorized guides and facilities.
Interesting facts
- •Queen Elizabeth National Park is one of the few places in the world where lions climb trees, especially in the Ishasha sector.
- •The park contains over 600 bird species, including rare ones like the shoebill stork and papyrus gonolek.
- •The Kazinga Channel is a 40-kilometer natural waterway connecting Lake Edward and Lake George, hosting large populations of hippos and crocodiles.
- •The park's volcanic Katwe Explosion Craters are notable geological features where salt is traditionally extracted.
- •Queen Elizabeth National Park and Virunga National Park in DRC form a lion conservation unit recognized by the IUCN.
- •The park straddles the equator, marked by monuments indicating the zero latitude line.
History
The park was formed in 1952 by merging Lake George and Lake Edward Game Reserves and was initially named Kazinga National Park.
It was renamed Queen Elizabeth National Park in 1954 to honor Queen Elizabeth II's visit.
Historically, the area was inhabited by the pastoral Songora people who were displaced during colonial times following a rinderpest and sleeping sickness epidemic in the 1920s.
Subsequent evictions created space for game reserves, leading to the establishment of the park.
In recent decades, challenges such as human-wildlife conflict and poaching have affected the park, but ongoing conservation programs aim to preserve its unique biodiversity.
Place Guide
Kazinga Channel
A 40-kilometer waterway connecting Lake Edward and Lake George, renowned for abundant hippos, Nile crocodiles, and diverse water birds. Boat safaris here offer spectacular wildlife viewing opportunities.
Ishasha Sector
Famous for its rare tree-climbing lions, Ishasha offers unique predator sightings where lions rest in fig trees and hunt Uganda kobs in the savanna.
Katwe Explosion CratersAncient volcanic period
Volcanic craters formed by ancient eruptions, some containing crater lakes. The area is also known for traditional salt extraction by local communities.
Rwenzori Mountains Viewpoints
Scenic vistas of the nearby Rwenzori Mountains, providing a dramatic backdrop to the park’s landscapes and a cooler climate in higher elevations.
Contact
Phone: 031 2355000
