Queen Elizabeth National Park boasts an astonishing array of species that make it a compelling destination for wildlife enthusiasts. Its vast savannas, dense forests, volcanic craters, and crater lakes, together with the extensive wetlands, cover an area of 1,978 square kilometres (764 square miles) making it Uganda's second-largest national park after Murchison Falls National Park, which is located in the northwestern part of the country. Queen Elizabeth National Park supports 95 mammal species. Among these are the "big four"; lions, leopards, elephants, and buffalo, with rhinos being the only missing member of the "big five" within the park's boundaries.
The Ishasha sector in the southwestern part of the park is particularly renowned for its unique tree-climbing lions, a rare phenomenon that sees these powerful predators lounging on fig trees, a truly captivating sight. The Kazinga Channel teems with one of the world's highest concentrations of hippos, complemented by formidable Nile crocodiles, while warthogs, various antelope species like the Uganda kob, topi, and waterbuck, and a vibrant population of baboons and vervet monkeys add to the mammalian spectacle. Beyond the large animals, the park is a globally recognised Important Bird Area (IBA), home to over 600 bird species, the largest bird population of any protected area in Africa, including the African fish eagle, African skimmer, Chapin's flycatcher, Pink-backed pelicans, Papyrus canary, Shoebill stork, martial eagle, black-rumped buttonquail as well as the great flamingos.
Safaris through Queen Elizabeth National Park's extensive networks of tracks provide the quintessential African game experience, particularly rewarding in the Kasenyi plains where lions often stalk herds of Uganda kob, and elephants and buffaloes roam freely against the backdrop of the Rwenzori Mountains. Early morning and late afternoon drives are ideal for encountering active predators and observing the daily routines of herbivores. However, a highlight for many visitors is undeniably the boat safari along the Kazinga Channel. This cruise offers close-up views of hippos as well as elephants drinking and bathing.
For those seeking a more primate-focused experience, chimpanzee tracking in Kyambura Gorge, the "Valley of Apes," presents an opportunity to explore the sunken forest and observe habituated chimpanzee communities in their natural habitat, an activity that supports crucial conservation efforts. Beyond these major attractions, the park also offers engaging nature walks, allowing visitors to experience the bush on foot with experienced rangers, and tours to the crater lakes, showcasing the park's dramatic volcanic past and offering panoramic views across the expansive landscape. Cultural experiences are also available, providing insights into the lives of local communities residing near the park and offering opportunities to engage with their traditions and crafts. |