Queen Elizabeth National Park was established in 1952 as Kazinga National Park by connecting the Lake George and Lake Edward Game Reserves. It was renamed two years later to mark a visit by Queen Elizabeth II, and the last remaining collective grazing rights of the Songora shepherds were abandoned, causing thousands more to move across the border with their herds into the Virunga National Park, most just starting to return after 1964 due to the battle driven by the Mulele rebellion.
Queen Elizabeth National Park crosses the districts of Kasese, Kamwenge, Rubirizi, and Rukungiri. The park is about 400 kilometers by road southwest of Kampala, Uganda’s capital and biggest city. The city of Kasese lies to the northeast of the park, while the town of Rubirizi is to the southeast. Queen Elizabeth National Park borders Kyambura Game Reserve to the east, which itself borders the Kigezi Game Reserve and therefore the Kibale National Park to the northeast. The Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of the Congo lies across the boundary to the west. Together, these places completely cover Lake Edward. The Rwenzori Mountains National Park in Uganda lies not far to the northwest.
Queen Elizabeth National Park occupies an estimated 1,978 square kilometers. The park is well-known for its various wildlife, including African elephant, African buffalo, Ugandan kob, hippopotamus, topi, waterbuck, warthog, giant forest hog, Nile crocodile, leopard, spotted hyena, chimpanzee and lion. Altogether, the park is home to 95 animal species and approximately 600 bird species. The area near Ishasha in Rukungiri District is well-known for its tree-climbing lions.
Queen Elizabeth National Park together with the neighboring Virunga National Park, was established as a ‘lion conservation unit’ by the IUCN in 2006. The area is even believed a potential lion stronghold in Central Africa, if poaching is denied and prey species are permitted to recover. The lion, hyenas, and leopards are actively seen in the park. The park is also well-known for its volcanic features, including volcanic cones and, many with crater lakes, such as the Katwe craters, from which salt is removed.
Queen Elizabeth National Park is one of Uganda’s most famous tourist destinations, yearly receiving the highest number of travelers of any of the country’s national parks. Popular activities done in Queen Elizabeth National Park include chimpanzee tracking in Kyambura Gorge, boat cruises along the Kazinga Channel, guided game drives including to view tree climbing lions in the Ishasha sector, night drives, and nature walks. Travelers can also go on a lion experience with the Uganda Carnivore Program. Travelers visiting Queen Elizabeth National Park make a 7 hours 30 minutes drive from Kampala to reach the park. The park is also do daily domestic flights from Entebbe International Airport, which lands at the Mweya Airstrip, Kihihi Airstrip, and Kasese Airstrip. Tourist accommodations at the park include a range of budget, mid-range, and luxury lodges and tented campsites.
Things to Do in Queen Elizabeth National Park
1. Wildlife Safaris
Queen Elizabeth National Park is home to an outstanding variety of animals, including elephants, buffalo, hippos, and around 600 species of birds. Choose from early morning or evening game drives for the best chance to see animals in their natural habitat. The park is home to an amazing variety of wildlife, including around 95 mammal species and more than 600 bird species. You might see elephants, buffaloes, hippos, and even the leopards. The iconic tree-climbing lions of the Ishasha sector are a main highlight, well-known for their outstanding behavior of resting in the branches of fig trees. Birdwatchers will be excited by sightings of the bright shoebill stork, African fish eagle, and multiple different unknown birds.
2. Boat Cruise Along the Kazinga Channel
Experience the extraordinary ecosystem of the Kazinga Channel on a boat cruise. This leisure trip presents close meetings with hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of birdlife. Don’t forget your camera for those perfect wildlife shots. The channel is an excellent location for wildlife spotting. As you sail through the waters, keep your eyes peeled for big populations of hippos wallowing in the sun, their huge bodies often appearing with a snort. The channel is also a place for birdwatchers, boasting over 600 bird species. Look out for colorful kingfishers, pelicans, and the iconic African fish eagle flying overhead. If you are lucky, you might also see elephants or buffaloes coming down to drink from the water.
3. Chimpanzee Tracking
Join a guided trek to track chimpanzees in the Kyambura Gorge. Witness these incredible primates in their natural environment and learn about their behaviors from expert guides.
4. Nature Walks and Hiking
Explore the park’s breathtaking landscapes on foot. Guided nature walks provide an opportunity to learn about the flora and fauna while enjoying the serenity of the bush. For the adventurous, the Rwenzori Mountains nearby offer challenging hiking trails with spectacular views.
5. Cultural Experiences
Engage yourself in local culture by visiting nearby communities. Engage with local people, learn about their traditions, and enjoy authentic Ugandan cuisine.
6. Scenic Viewpoints
Don’t miss the breathtaking viewpoints like the Ishasha sector, well-known for its tree-climbing lions. Capture the scenic vistas that make this park so special.
Rent a Car with FK Car Rental Uganda
At FK Car Rental Uganda, we offer a wide range of cars to fit your travel needs. Whether you are planning a solo adventure, a family trip, or a group safari, we have the perfect car for you.
Why Choose FK Car Rental Uganda?
- Affordable Rates – Competitive pricing without compromising on quality.
- Flexible Options – Choose from a variety of vehicles, including 4×4 cars ideal for rugged terrains.
- Convenient Pickup & Drop-off – We offer flexible pickup and drop-off locations for your comfort.
- Expert Local Guidance – Our reservations team is knowledgeable about the park and can provide tips for an unforgettable experience.
How to Rent Your Car
- Browse Our Fleet – Visit our website to view our selection of cars.
- Select Your Dates – Choose your rental dates and pickup location.
- Book Online – Complete the easy online booking form or contact us for assistance.
- Hit the Road – Pick up your car and start your adventure in Queen Elizabeth National Park.
Queen Elizabeth National Park is a treasure of natural beauty and adventure waiting to be discovered. With FK Car Rental Uganda, you can smoothly navigate this great destination and make memorable memories. Book your car today and get ready for an amazing journey into the wild.
To rent a car with a driver to Queen Elizabeth National Park for a self-drive adventure or book a Uganda car rental service today, simply contact us now at info@fkcarrentaluganda.com or call us now at Airtel;– (+256-707457134 ), Whatsapp;– (+256-774784213) to speak or chat with our team.
