Queen Elizabeth National Park

Queen Elizabeth National Park offers a variety of activities that cater to nature lovers, adventure seekers, and wildlife enthusiasts. Here are some highlights:

Game Drives: One of the main attractions, game drives take visitors through the park’s diverse landscapes, including open savannahs, acacia woodlands, and lush wetlands. During these drives, you can spot a wide array of wildlife, such as elephants, buffaloes, lions, leopards, and various antelope species. The lions were definitely the star of the show. We saw a resent pride two days in a row with one female and 5 young males. They were certainly used to seeing humans and even would walk right up and snuggle up near the cool shadows of the vehicles.

Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise: This popular activity provides a unique perspective of the park from the water. The Kazinga Channel, which connects Lake Edward and Lake George, is teeming with wildlife. On a boat cruise, you can see large pods of hippos, basking crocodiles, numerous herds of elephants and an abundance of birdlife, including kingfishers, pelicans, and African fish eagles.

Tree-Climbing Lions in Ishasha: The Ishasha sector, located in the southern part of the park, is famous for its unique population of tree-climbing lions. Observing these majestic cats lounging in fig trees is a rare and fascinating experience, offering great photographic opportunities.

Bird Watching: Queen Elizabeth National Park is a birdwatcher's paradise, with over 600 species recorded. The varied habitats, from wetlands to forested gorges, attract a wide range of birds, making it an ideal destination for ornithologists and bird enthusiasts.

Exploring the Crater Lakes: The park is dotted with scenic crater lakes formed by ancient volcanic activity. Visiting these lakes offers stunning views and opportunities for photography, bird watching, and relaxing walks along their shores.

Nature Walks: Guided nature walks in various parts of the park, such as the Maramagambo Forest, offer a chance to explore the flora and fauna on foot. These walks provide a more intimate experience with nature and opportunities to see smaller creatures and plants that are often missed on game drives.

Queen Elizabeth National Park’s diverse range of activities ensures that every visitor finds something to enjoy, whether it's thrilling wildlife encounters, serene boat cruises, or immersive cultural experiences.

Queen Elizabeth National Park boasts several exceptional lodges that offer comfortable accommodations and breathtaking views, providing the perfect base for exploring the park's rich wildlife and stunning landscapes. Here are three of the best places to stay, with Elephant Hab as the number one spot:

Elephant Hab Lodge: Perched on the edge of the park with sweeping views of the lush savannah and distant Rwenzori Mountains, Elephant Hab Lodge offers an unparalleled experience of luxury and nature. The lodge features spacious, well-appointed rooms with private balconies, allowing guests to enjoy the tranquility and beauty of the surroundings. The on-site restaurant serves delicious meals made from fresh local ingredients, and the friendly staff ensures a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Proximity to key attractions like the Kazinga Channel and Mweya Peninsula makes Elephant Hab Lodge the ideal choice for an unforgettable stay in Queen Elizabeth National Park.

This was one of my favorite lodges on the whole trip. You had the most gorgeous view of the entire park and the wildlife even actually frequented the close vicinity of the lodge. Excellent location and lovely staff. 

Mweya Safari Lodge: Located on a peninsula within the heart of the park, Mweya Safari Lodge offers spectacular views of the Kazinga Channel and Lake Edward. This upscale lodge provides a range of accommodations, from luxurious suites to comfortable cottages. Guests can relax by the swimming pool, enjoy gourmet dining at the lodge’s restaurant, and embark on game drives or boat cruises directly from the lodge. Mweya Safari Lodge combines comfort with prime access to some of the park’s best wildlife viewing opportunities.

Ishasha Wilderness Camp: Situated in the remote southern sector of the park, Ishasha Wilderness Camp is known for its rustic charm and intimate safari experience. The camp’s spacious tents are set along the Ntungwe River, offering serene views and the sounds of nature. Ishasha is renowned for its tree-climbing lions, and the camp provides excellent opportunities for game drives to see these unique predators. The camp’s eco-friendly approach and commitment to sustainability enhance the overall experience, making it a top choice for eco-conscious travelers.

These three lodges each offer unique experiences and amenities, ensuring that visitors to Queen Elizabeth National Park can enjoy both luxury and nature during their stay.