Why Queen Elizabeth National Park Should Be on Your Uganda Safari Itinerary 

Planning a safari in Uganda? Discover why Queen Elizabeth National Park deserves a top spot on your itinerary for wildlife, boat cruises, tree-climbing lions, and more! 

If you’re dreaming of a classic African safari experience with spectacular wildlife, breathtaking scenery, and diverse ecosystems, then look no further than Queen Elizabeth National Park in southwestern Uganda. 

Welcome to Ishasha, Uganda’s wildest secret! Nestled in the southern sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park, Ishasha is the only place in Uganda and one of just two in the world where you can witness the rare and majestic tree-climbing lions lounging in fig and acacia trees. 

As one of the most visited and most ecologically rich parks in the country, Queen Elizabeth National Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers, photographers, and safari enthusiasts alike. Here’s exactly why this park should be on your Uganda safari itinerary with Jeisking Tours. 

1. Home to Uganda’s Big Game—Including Tree-Climbing Lions

Queen Elizabeth National Park is famous for its wide variety of animals, including four of the Big Five: elephants, lions, leopards, and buffaloes. But the star attraction? The tree-climbing lions are in the southern sector of the park, Ishasha. 

Why it’s special:

• Tree-climbing lions are extremely rare—only found in Queen Elizabeth and Lake Manyara in Tanzania. 

• You’ll often spot them resting in fig trees during hot afternoons. 

• A dream photo opportunity for any wildlife enthusiast. 

2. Boat Safari on the Kazinga Channel

The Kazinga Channel connects Lake Edward and Lake George, and a boat cruise here offers one of the best wildlife experiences in Uganda. 

Expect to see:

• Large pods of hippos and Nile crocodiles up close 

• Elephants and buffaloes drinking on the shores 

• Over 600 species of birds, including kingfishers, fish eagles, and storks 

This relaxing boat ride is perfect for travelers who love nature, birds, or photography. 

3. Scenic Landscapes and Photographic Beauty

The park is incredibly diverse in its scenery, offering a blend of savannah plains, crater lakes, volcanic cones, swamps, and lush forests. 

Highlights include:

• The explosion craters with panoramic views 

• The dramatic Rwenzori Mountains in the distance 

• Sunrise and sunset game drives with glowing golden light 

Whether you’re into landscapes or wildlife, Queen Elizabeth is a photographer’s paradise. 

4. Birdwatcher’s Heaven

Queen Elizabeth National Park is a top birding destination in East Africa, with over 600 bird species recorded. 

Notable birds include:

• Shoebill stork 

• African skimmer 

• Papyrus gonolek 

• Martial eagle 

• Pink-backed pelican 

Even casual bird lovers will be amazed at the variety, especially around the Kazinga Channel and Maramagambo Forest. 

5. Easy Accessibility from Major Towns

Queen Elizabeth National Park is located about 6–7 hours from Kampala and can easily be accessed via a scenic drive. It’s also well-connected with other top attractions like

• Bwindi Impenetrable Forest (for gorilla trekking) 

• Kibale Forest (for chimpanzee tracking) 

• Lake Mburo National Park 

This makes it an ideal midpoint on a multi-park safari circuit, especially with Jeisking Tours handling your itinerary and transport. 

6. Community and Cultural Tourism

Beyond the wildlife, Queen Elizabeth also gives you a chance to connect with Uganda’s rich cultural heritage. 

Activities include:

• Visiting traditional salt mining sites at Lake Katwe 

• Exploring local fishing villages along Lake Edward 

• Enjoying traditional dance and music from surrounding communities 

This adds a unique layer of culture and storytelling to your safari journey. 

7. Budget-Friendly Safari Options

Unlike some East African parks that can be expensive, Queen Elizabeth offers a range of accommodation options from budget lodges to luxury safari camps. Whether you’re a backpacker, honeymooner, or group traveler, there’s a place for you. 

Jeisking Tours can help you:

• Find affordable, quality lodges. 

• Customize your safari with game drives, boat cruises, or cultural stops. 

• Travel comfortably in a private or group safari vehicle. 

Bonus: Combine with gorilla trekking! 

Did you know you can combine your Queen Elizabeth safari with gorilla trekking in nearby Bwindi Impenetrable Forest? It’s just a few hours’ drive away. 

This combo gives you the best of Uganda: savannah safaris, boat cruises, birding, AND gorillas in one epic itinerary. 

Final Thoughts 

Queen Elizabeth National Park isn’t just another wildlife destination; it’s a living, breathing landscape filled with wonder. From its tree-climbing lions to the peaceful boat rides on Kazinga Channel, it offers something for every kind of traveler. 

Whether you’re a wildlife lover, birding enthusiast, photographer, or first-time visitor to Africa, this park deserves a spot on your Uganda safari itinerary. 

 

Ready to explore Queen Elizabeth with Jeisking Tours? 

Book your customized Uganda safari today and let us take you on an unforgettable journey into the heart of Queen Elizabeth National Park. 

Contact us now to plan your trip!