Top Things to do in Queen Elizabeth National Park
If you’re planning a safari to Uganda and are curious about top things to do in Queen Elizabeth National Park, this article will guide you in choosing the best experiences during your visit. Located in western Uganda, Queen Elizabeth National Park is one of the most popular parks and the second largest after Murchison Falls National Park, covering an area of over 1,998 square kilometers. The park is home to more than 96 mammal species, including four of the Big Five: elephants, buffalo, lions, and leopards. Other wildlife includes hyenas, warthogs, Uganda kobs, and waterbucks.
Additionally, the park hosts over 60 species of butterflies and 10 primate species, such as chimpanzees, vervet monkeys, and black-and-white colobus monkeys. Bird enthusiasts will also find Queen Elizabeth National Park to be a haven, as it boasts over 605 bird species, including the African skimmer, black bee-eater, double-toothed barbet, western banded snake eagle, hooded vulture, saddle-billed stork, and pink-backed pelican. One of the park’s unique features is the tree-climbing lions found in the Ishasha sector, where it is rare for lions to climb trees. Visitors can observe these magnificent lions, often seen resting on the branches of fig trees or watching over their territory. Things to do in Queen Elizabeth National Park include a boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel an excellent way to experience nature while relaxing, as well as nature walks, game drives, and bird watching, chimpanzee trekking among other activities.
Top things to do in Queen Elizabeth National Park.
Tree climbing Lions in Queen Elizabeth National Park.
Searching for tree-climbing lions takes place in Ishasha, located in the southern sector of the park. This is the only place where such lions can be found. It’s unusual for lions to climb trees, and the unique behavior of these lions attracts tourists from around the world who visit the park to witness them. Visitors have the opportunity to see lion cubs climbing trees and playing, as well as adult lions sitting on tree branches, relaxing while monitoring their territory and watching for prey. This is one of the best activities to enjoy on an African safari, and the experience is truly rewarding.
Experiential Leopard Tracking.
Leopard tracking is one of the top activities to experience in Queen Elizabeth National Park for those who love these elusive animals. Leopards are very shy, and it can be quite difficult to spot them during a regular game drive. If you do see one, consider yourself lucky! As nocturnal animals, leopards sleep during the day and are most active at night. This tracking activity is led by armed rangers and researchers who use GPS radio collars to locate the leopards. There is a 98% chance of seeing them thanks to this GPS system, and the entire experience typically lasts between 2 to 4 hours. Once you locate a leopard, you’ll have the opportunity to observe it closely, learn more about its behavior as part of a research program, and even take clear photos.
Kazinga Channel Boat Cruise.
A boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel is a must-do activity in Queen Elizabeth National Park, offering a chance to experience the park’s beauty while relaxing on the water. The Kazinga Channel is a 32-kilometer long waterway that connects Lake George and Lake Edward. During this spectacular cruise, you’ll enjoy stunning scenery and the opportunity to see various animals, including playful schools of hippos, crocodiles basking in the sunset, and elephants, buffalo, and kobs gathering at the water’s edge. The channel serves as an essential water source for these inhabitants. Additionally, bird lovers will appreciate the delightful melodies of the many songbirds in the area.
Game Drives- Top Things to do in Queen Elizabeth National Park
One of the popular activities to do in Queen Elizabeth National Park is going on guided game drives, which allow you to explore the park’s beauty. In the morning game drive, you’ll have the chance to see animals such as hyenas, lions, leopards, and Uganda kobs as they roam the park, hunt, or carry their prey. The evening game drive provides an opportunity to spot animals that you might have missed in the morning. For those interested in nocturnal wildlife, the night game drive specifically targets animals like leopards, which are most active after dark. In addition to these amazing wildlife sightings, you’ll also have the chance to observe various bird species, tree species, and butterflies throughout each drive. Each game drive offers a unique and unforgettable experience.
Chimpanzee trekking.
Chimpanzee trekking in Queen Elizabeth National Park takes place in Kyambura Gorge, located in the northern sector of the park. Before trekking, it’s essential to assess your fitness level, as the hike involves navigating steep and dense forest. Treks are conducted in the morning and afternoon, starting with a briefing on the dos and don’ts of chimp trekking. Once this briefing is complete, you’ll begin your search for our closest relatives on Earth. When you locate the playful chimpanzees, you’ll spend one hour observing them. You’ll witness amazing interactions, such as how mothers care for their young, how they play, and how they feed and play on top of leaves. This experience is truly remarkable and a must-do activity for visitors.
Nature Walk-Top Things to do in Queen Elizabeth National Park
A nature walk is one of the best activities to enjoy in Queen Elizabeth National Park, allowing you to explore the park on foot. This experience is guided by an armed ranger, and there are specific trails designated for nature walks. It provides an excellent opportunity to see a variety of animals, including Kobs, waterbucks, chimpanzees, and both white and black colobus monkeys, as well as vervet monkeys. In addition to wildlife, you will also encounter various tree species and butterflies along the way.
