Established
1952
Size
1,978 km²
Elevation
910–1,390 m
Ecosystem
Savanna, Crater Lakes, Forest
Best Time
June – September, December – February
Entry Fee
$40 per adult/day
About Queen Elizabeth National Park
Queen Elizabeth National Park is Uganda's most popular and diverse safari destination, showcasing an extraordinary range of landscapes and habitats within its 1,978 km². The park straddles the equator and encompasses volcanic crater lakes, the famous Kazinga Channel connecting Lakes George and Edward, the Ishasha sector's tree-climbing lions, and the lush Kyambura Gorge (home to chimpanzees). With 95 mammal species and 612 bird species, Queen Elizabeth has the highest biodiversity of any East African park. The Kazinga Channel boat cruise, with its dense concentrations of hippos, elephants, and buffaloes, is one of Uganda's most rewarding wildlife experiences.
What Makes It Special
612 bird species (highest in East Africa)
Tree-climbing lions of Ishasha
Kazinga Channel boat cruise
Chimpanzees in Kyambura Gorge
Volcanic crater lakes
Wildlife & Species
Things to Do
Best Time to Visit
Peak Season
Best wildlife viewing
JunJulAugSep
Shoulder Season
Fewer crowds, good value
DecJanFeb
Green Season
Lush landscapes, birding
MarAprMayOctNov
Where to Stay
Mweya Safari Lodge
LuxuryPerched on the Mweya Peninsula between Lakes George and Edward with panoramic Kazinga Channel views.
From $350/night / night
Ishasha Wilderness Camp
LuxuryRiverside camp in the Ishasha sector, famous for tree-climbing lion sightings.
From $400/night / night
Simba Safari Camp
BudgetTented camp near the equator crossing with game drives and boat cruises.
From $80/night / night
Safari Packages
4-Day Queen Elizabeth Safari
Kazinga Channel cruise, tree-climbing lions, and crater lake exploration
6-Day Queen Elizabeth & Bwindi Combined
Uganda's best safari park plus mountain gorilla trekking