Queen Elizabeth National Park is one of Uganda’s most famous and diverse national parks. It’s located in the western part of the country. Laying between Lakes Gorge and Albert it spans approximately 1,978 square kilometers. The park is named after Queen Elizabeth II in 1954 following her visit.
Key Attractions in Queen Elizabeth National Park
- Wildlife: The park is home to over 95 mammal species, including elephants, lions (especially the famous tree-climbing lions in the Ishasha sector), leopards, hippos, buffaloes, various antelope species and in addition to 10 primate species like chimpanzees. It’s also a prime destination for birdwatchers, with 618 bird species, making it the 6th highest diversity in the world and the highest in Africa .
- The Kazinga Channel: Is a natural water channel that connects Lakes Albert and Lake George. It’s famous for its large concentrations of hippos and Nile crocodiles. Boat cruises on the channel offer excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing.
- Ishasha Sector: Known for its inhabitance of unique tree-climbing lions.
- Kyambura Gorge: Also known as the “Valley of Apes,” this gorge is home to a habituated population of chimpanzees and is popular for chimpanzee tracking tours.
- Mweya Peninsula: Its a stretch of land that protrudes into Lake Edwards and is the main tourism hub of the park, offering stunning views of the Kazinga Channel and excellent wildlife viewing opportunities.
- The Katwe Explosion Crater Lakes: The park is dotted with volcanic craters, some of which form beautiful crater lakes. These craters offer scenic views and are home to various wildlife species.
