Queen Elizabeth National Park (QENP) together with Kyambura and Kigezi Wildlife Reserves form one of the most diverse ecosystems in Africa. The melting glacier waters of the Rwenzori Mountains create a vast wetland system comprising of two main lakes, George and Edward, as well as the connecting Kazinga Channel. Thousands of hippos populate these lake shorelines. Open savannah dotted with Acacia and Euphorbia trees provide habitat for elephants, lions, leopards, Uganda kobs and big herds of buffaloes. Ten primate species including chimpanzees are present.

Among the many animals frequently seen are giant forest hog, waterbucks, topi, hyenas and crocodiles. The park boasts of more bird species than any other park in Africa.

In 1979, Queen Elizabeth National Park was designated as a Biosphere Reserve with the ultimate goal of integrating human activities with the conservation and protection of wildlife, wetlands and natural resources. There are eleven fishing village enclaves within the Protected Area. Several ethnic groups that are closely related both linguistically and culturally inhabit this part of the country: the Bakiga, Banyankore and Bakonjo.

A boat trip along the hippo crowded banks of Kazinga Channel gives visitors a unique wildlife experience. Eye to eye with yawning hippos and surrounded by vast numbers of migrant and resident water birds, the boat puts one right in the heart of nature. Many buffaloes rest in the water while the big herds of elephant enjoy themselves drinking and playing along the channel banks. Crocodiles have become a common sight and occasionally leopards may be seen.

Many surprises await you in the extensive Maramagambo rainforest. A variety of short, medium and long guided nature walks are offered. Pythons are often observed in the crevices of the Bats Cave floor using the bats as a source of food. The cave is near the picturesque Blue Lake and Hunters Cave. Other trails lead into the heart of the forest surrounding tranquil crater lakes and home to wild chimps, other primates and many forest birds.

The National Park boasts of 606 bird species. Our experienced guides know the most interesting bird spots around swamps, lakes and other interesting habitats. Queen Elizabeth National Park offers you a good chance of spotting Uganda’s most sought after bird, the prehistoric looking Shoebill stork. Other key species include: the African fish eagle, martial eagle, papyrus gonolek, African skimmer and many more.

A trip plan for a minimum of 2-3 days gives one the best chance to see these beautiful birds.

Ishasha is a true pearl in the southern part of the park. Idyllic campsites frequently visited by colobus and other monkeys are situated along the winding Ishasha River. The famous tree-climbing lions can be spotted on large fig trees in this part of the park. Topi, Uganda kobs and buffalos graze in the acacia studded savannah.