7 Must-Sees on Safari Tours to Queen Elizabeth National Park
Queen Elizabeth National Park is one of Uganda’s most iconic safari destinations. Stretching from the foothills of the Rwenzori Mountains to the shores of Lake Edward, it is a park of breathtaking landscapes, abundant wildlife, and diverse ecosystems. From savannas and wetlands to volcanic craters and lush forests, Queen Elizabeth offers an unforgettable safari experience. Here are seven must-sees that no visitor should miss when exploring this remarkable park.
1. Tree-Climbing Lions of Ishasha
The southern Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth is famous for its rare tree-climbing lions. Unlike lions in most parts of Africa, these cats spend hours lounging in the branches of fig trees. Watching them draped lazily across branches while scanning the savanna for prey is a unique and thrilling sight that makes Ishasha a highlight of any safari.
2. Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise
The Kazinga Channel, a natural waterway linking Lake George and Lake Edward, is one of the best places in Uganda to see wildlife up close. A boat cruise along the channel reveals massive pods of hippos, basking crocodiles, elephants cooling off at the water’s edge, and an astonishing variety of birds. The experience offers some of the park’s most iconic photographs and unforgettable moments.
3. Kyambura Gorge (The Valley of the Apes)
Hidden within the savanna is the lush Kyambura Gorge, a dramatic chasm filled with tropical forest. Here, visitors can track chimpanzees and other primates such as red-tailed and colobus monkeys. The gorge also harbors colorful birdlife and unique plant species. Trekking in Kyambura is a magical contrast to the open plains, offering a taste of the wild that feels completely different.
4. Explosion Crater Lakes
The northern part of the park is dotted with a series of explosion craters formed by ancient volcanic activity. These craters, now filled with lakes, offer breathtaking views and dramatic landscapes. A drive along the Crater Lake Circuit is both scenic and peaceful, with sweeping vistas of the Rift Valley floor and the Rwenzori Mountains in the distance.
5. The Rwenzori Mountain Backdrop
Queen Elizabeth National Park lies in the shadow of the Rwenzori Mountains, also known as the Mountains of the Moon. The snowcapped peaks provide a spectacular backdrop to the savanna, especially on clear days. Whether seen from the open plains or mirrored in the waters of the crater lakes, the Rwenzoris add a sense of majesty to the park’s scenery.
6. Birdwatching Paradise
With over 600 bird species recorded, Queen Elizabeth is a birdwatcher’s dream. From the shoebill stork and African skimmer to the colorful bee-eaters and kingfishers, the park is alive with avian diversity. The wetlands, lakeshores, and forests each reveal a different set of species, making birding one of the park’s most rewarding activities.
7. Mweya Peninsula
The Mweya Peninsula is the park’s main hub and a fantastic spot for both wildlife viewing and scenic beauty. Surrounded by the Kazinga Channel and Lake Edward, it is home to lodges, viewpoints, and easy access to game drives. From here, visitors can spot elephants, buffalo, warthogs, and antelope grazing against a stunning landscape. Mweya is also a great place to begin a boat safari on the Kazinga Channel.
A safari tour to Queen Elizabeth National Park is a journey into one of Uganda’s richest natural landscapes. From the rare tree-climbing lions of Ishasha to the hippo-filled Kazinga Channel and the lush Kyambura Gorge, the park is a showcase of Africa’s diversity. Whether you come for wildlife, scenery, or birdwatching, these seven must-sees ensure that every visitor leaves with memories as vibrant and enduring as the park itself.