About Queen Elizabeth National Park
Queen Elizabeth National Park in western Uganda became a national park in 1952 and was renamed in 1954 after a visit by Queen Elizabeth II. The Kazinga Channel, a stretch of water linking Lake Edward and Lake George, draws hippos, elephants, buffalo and waterbirds to its banks.
In the Ishasha sector, in the south-west of the park, lions are famous for resting in fig trees. Sightings are never guaranteed, so treat them as a bonus.
Things to do in Queen Elizabeth
- Take a boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel
- Look for wildlife on game drives across the savannah
- Look for the tree-climbing lions in the Ishasha sector
- Watch for waterbirds along the channel
Best time to visit Queen Elizabeth
The drier seasons of June to September and December to February are usually the most comfortable for game viewing. See our seasons guide.
Getting around the park
The Kazinga Channel area and the Ishasha sector are far apart, so plan travel time between them. Many itineraries combine Queen Elizabeth with Kibale National Park, which is reachable from Fort Portal.
Visit Queen Elizabeth with E.V.A Safaris
Queen Elizabeth is one of the ten parks on our national parks tour from USD 300 per person, with a driver guide, transport, airport pick-up and park entrance fees included. See how it compares in our national parks guide.
Highlights
- Kazinga Channel boat cruise
- Tree-climbing lions in the Ishasha sector
- Hippos, elephants, buffalo and waterbirds
Queen Elizabeth National Park: frequently asked questions
Where are the tree-climbing lions?
In the Ishasha sector in the south-west of the park. Lions rest in fig trees, but sightings are not guaranteed.
What is the Kazinga Channel?
A channel linking Lake Edward and Lake George. Boat cruises there are a popular way to see hippos, elephants, buffalo and waterbirds.
Can I combine it with Kibale?
Yes, many itineraries combine Queen Elizabeth with Kibale because both can be reached from the Fort Portal area. Tell us your dates and we will plan it.
No stress, no scam
Pay only to registered and verified accounts, or to means of payment approved by the government. Not sure about an account? Message us before you send any money.
