Stretching across southwestern Uganda’s breathtaking landscapes, Queen Elizabeth National Park is one of the country’s most popular safari destinations—celebrated for its diverse wildlife, scenic views of the Rwenzori Mountains, and an expansive savannah that showcases East Africa’s natural splendour. Whether you’re a first-time safari-goer or a seasoned traveller, visiting Queen Elizabeth National Park (QENP) offers a rich, immersive experience that blends adventure, culture, and jaw-dropping panoramas. In this guide, we’ll cover essential planning tips, the drive to the park, nearby towns worth exploring, and the wildlife you can expect to encounter during your trip.

1. Planning Your Trip

When to Go

Queen Elizabeth National Park is technically a year-round destination. However, many travellers prefer visiting during Uganda’s dry seasons, which run approximately from June to September and December to February. During these periods, wildlife tends to congregate around watering holes, making animal sightings more frequent. The rainy seasons (March to May, October to November) can be less crowded—and offer lush green landscapes—but expect some slippery roads and possible game-drive restrictions if paths become impassable.

Entry Requirements and Permits

The Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) manages QENP. You’ll pay an entrance fee at the park gates, valid for 24 hours. Fees may vary, with separate tariffs for Ugandan citizens, East African residents, and international tourists. If you plan to do a boat safari on the Kazinga Channel, chimp trekking in the nearby Kyambura Gorge, or a game drive in Ishasha (famous for tree-climbing lions), you’ll pay additional fees for these specific activities. Make sure to check the latest UWA price lists before you go.

Accommodation and Booking

QENP’s surroundings cater to various budgets. Options range from budget-friendly campsites and guesthouses to upscale safari lodges offering swimming pools, gourmet dining, and panoramic views of the savannah. Given the park’s popularity, it’s wise to book your accommodation in advance—especially during peak seasons. Consider whether you want to stay inside the park boundaries for closer proximity to game drives, or slightly outside to explore nearby communities and more budget-friendly lodging.

2. The Drive There

Routes and Distances

If you’re travelling from Fort Portal, the drive to QENP typically takes around 2.5 to 3 hours, depending on road conditions and traffic. The route is quite scenic—expect rolling green hills, tea plantations, and glimpses of the Rwenzori Mountains on clear days. For many travellers, this scenic transition from the highlands of Fort Portal into the savannah plains is an adventure in itself.

From Uganda’s capital, Kampala, it’s roughly 6–7 hours to reach QENP by road. Most drivers follow the Mbarara-Kasese route, which is paved for much of the journey. You can rent a private vehicle, join a guided tour, or use public transport (shared taxis or buses) to reach nearby towns and then hire a private car for the final stretch. If you’re new to Uganda’s roads, note that driving conditions can vary—potholes are common, and local driving customs might take some getting used to.

Road Tips

•Check Your Fuel: Fuel stations can be sparse once you leave major towns. Fill up in Fort Portal, Kasese, or Mbarara.

•4×4 Vehicle: If possible, opt for a four-wheel-drive vehicle, especially in rainy months when dirt roads can get muddy.

•Documents & Fees: Expect to present IDs or passports at checkpoints and pay the park entry fee upon arrival.

3. Towns Close By

Kasese

Sitting at the foothills of the Rwenzori Mountains, Kasese is one of the larger towns you’ll pass before reaching the park. It’s a great stop for stocking up on last-minute essentials, refuelling, or booking a trek in the Rwenzoris (if that’s on your agenda). The town is bustling with local markets, so you can also pick up fresh fruit or enjoy a quick meal at a roadside restaurant.

Katunguru

This small trading centre sits on the banks of the Kazinga Channel, right at the park’s doorstep. Katunguru can be a convenient base if you prefer being close to QENP’s main gate. Though not large, you’ll find a few budget-friendly guesthouses and local eateries here, as well as easy access to boat cruises on the channel.

Kikorongo

Another small roadside area near the park, Kikorongo is a spot where local communities sell crafts, run workshops, and sometimes offer short cultural visits. If you’re interested in supporting community tourism, spend a bit of time in Kikorongo before or after your game drives.

4. Wildlife and Fauna

Game Drives

QENP is home to over 90 mammal species and around 600 bird species, making it a biodiversity hotspot in East Africa. Standard game drives in the park’s northern sector often feature sightings of buffalo, elephants, antelopes (kob, bushbuck, and waterbuck), warthogs, and lions. Early morning or late afternoon drives are prime times for spotting predators and enjoying the golden hues of the savannah.

Ishasha Sector’s Tree-Climbing Lions

One of the park’s unique attractions lies in the Ishasha sector, located in the southern part of QENP. The lions here have developed a habit of climbing fig trees—a rare behaviour that sets Ishasha apart from most other lion habitats. While sightings aren’t guaranteed, many visitors place Ishasha high on their list for the chance to see these regal animals lounging in the treetops.

Kazinga Channel

The Kazinga Channel connects Lake George and Lake Edward and is famous for its boat safaris. Along its banks, you’ll see large pods of hippos, Nile crocodiles, and an array of birds—from vibrant kingfishers to the majestic African fish eagle. This water safari typically lasts a couple of hours, offering a different vantage point than traditional game drives. It’s also an excellent opportunity for wildlife photography, as the animals often congregate along the shorelines to drink.

Chimpanzee Trekking in Kyambura Gorge

If primates fascinate you, set aside time for a chimpanzee trek in Kyambura Gorge, on the eastern edge of the park. While not as prolific as Kibale Forest to the north, Kyambura Gorge still offers a chance to spot these intelligent primates in a scenic ravine lined with tropical vegetation. Treks are guided by Uganda Wildlife Authority rangers who track chimp troops daily. Remember that success rates vary, but the experience of walking through the gorge itself—complete with birds, butterflies, and smaller mammals—can be worthwhile even if the chimps prove elusive.

5. Helpful Tips

1. Guides and Rangers: Hiring a knowledgeable guide can enrich your experience, as they can help spot camouflaged wildlife and share deeper insights about local ecology.

2. Health Precautions: Bring a first-aid kit, insect repellent, and any prescribed medications. A yellow fever vaccination certificate is generally required for international travellers entering Uganda.

3. Packing Essentials: Binoculars, sunscreen, comfortable walking shoes, and layered clothing for varying temperatures are all must-haves.

4. Respect Wildlife: Keep a safe distance from animals, never feed them, and follow park rules to ensure their safety—and yours.

In Closing

With expansive savannahs, enchanting forests, and a wealth of wildlife, Queen Elizabeth National Park stands as the crown jewel of Uganda’s tourism scene. Whether you come for the tree-climbing lions in Ishasha, the cruising hippos along the Kazinga Channel, or the scenic drive through rolling hills, QENP offers an unforgettable African safari experience. Proper planning—choosing when to visit, mapping out your drive, and knowing which towns to stop in—will ensure your journey is smooth and fulfilling. Pack your sense of adventure (and your camera), and get ready to experience Uganda’s wildlife at its best.