Queen Elizabeth National Park (QENP) is in the Western Region of Uganda, spanning the districts of Kasese, Kamwenge, Rubirizi, and Kanungu. The park is approximately 400 kilometers (250 mi) by road south-west of Kampala, Uganda’s capital and largest city. The city of Kasese lies to the northeast of the park, while the town of Rubirizi is to the southeast. Park adjoins Kyambura Game Reserve to the east, which itself adjoins the Kigezi Game Reserve (including the Maramagambo Forest) and thus the Kibale Forest National Park to the northeast. The Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo lies across the border to the west. Together, these protected places completely encircle Lake Edward. The Rwenzori Mountains National Park in Uganda lies not far to the northwest.

These varied habitats support a wealth of wildlife with more mammal species (95) than any other Ugandan park and over 600 bird species – an unprecedented number for such a small area. Expect to see safari favorites such as elephants, buffaloes and hippos while the chances of finding lions on the plains of Kasenyi and Ishasha are good.

WHAT TO DO:

• Game drives in the Kasenyi Plains
• Wildlife viewing at Mweya Peninsula
• A boat safari on the Kazinga Channel
• Exploration of the Crater Lakes
• Chimp tracking in Kyambura Wildlife Reserve
• Forest Walks in Maramagambo Forest
• Finding tree climbing lions in Ishasha

GETTING THERE:

Charter flight can be arranged to airstrips at Kasese, Mweya and Ishasha

Drive from Kampala

BEST TIME TO VISIT:

All-year-round. Thanks to the location on the equator, Uganda has a tropical climate. Rainfall occurs regularly, with a peak in the months of April-May and November.