Lion Tracking in Uganda and Queen Elizabeth National Park

Lion tracking in Uganda is one of the most thrilling safari experiences that allows visitors to get up close with the famous tree-climbing lions of Queen Elizabeth National Park. Unlike the usual game drives where spotting lions is a matter of luck, lion tracking gives tourists a rare opportunity to follow lions with the guidance of researchers who use radio collars and monitoring devices. This makes it both an adventurous and educational experience.

The Unique Lion Tracking Experience

Lion tracking in Queen Elizabeth National Park is organized under the Uganda Carnivore Program (UCP), a conservation initiative that works to monitor and protect lions, leopards, and hyenas. During this activity, visitors join researchers in the Kasenyi Plains or Ishasha sector to track the lions. The experience involves using radio telemetry to locate collared lions, allowing participants to learn about their behavior, movements, and survival challenges. This makes it a much deeper and more meaningful activity compared to ordinary game drives.

Tree-Climbing Lions of Ishasha

The Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park is famous for its unique population of tree-climbing lions. These lions often rest in the branches of fig and acacia trees, a behavior rarely seen elsewhere in Africa. Tourists have the chance to observe these lions lazily perched above the ground, offering excellent photography opportunities. This rare phenomenon makes lion tracking in Ishasha an unforgettable highlight for visitors.

Conservation and Research Benefits

Lion tracking is not only about tourism but also conservation. By joining the researchers, visitors contribute to the ongoing monitoring and protection of lions. The collected data helps in studying lion ecology, understanding human-wildlife conflict, and finding solutions to protect these endangered species. This makes the activity both impactful and sustainable, ensuring that tourism supports wildlife conservation.

Best Time for Lion Tracking

Lion tracking in Queen Elizabeth National Park is conducted in the morning and late afternoon when lions are most active. The activity usually lasts two to three hours and guarantees a high chance of spotting lions. The dry season, from December to February and June to September, is the best time for lion tracking since animals are easier to spot due to thinner vegetation and limited water sources.

Why Choose Lion Tracking in Uganda

Lion tracking in Queen Elizabeth National Park offers an exclusive and rewarding safari adventure that combines wildlife viewing with conservation education. It is more intimate than a standard game drive and allows tourists to actively participate in protecting Uganda’s iconic predators. For those seeking a memorable safari experience, lion tracking is a must-do activity when visiting Uganda.