Queen Elizabeth National Park sits on the Equator. It combines stunning scenery with diverse wildlife. Monuments on either side of the road mark the exact spot where the park crosses the latitude of 0 degrees. It was originally established in 1952 as Kazinga National Park. It was renamed in 1954 to honour a visit by Queen Elizabeth II of England.
The park is home to an impressive array of wildlife. It has over 95 mammal species and more than 600 bird species. The park has diverse ecosystems. They range from the highest point at the Katwe explosion craters (1,350 meters above sea level). The lowest point at Lake Edward (910 meters). They include sprawling savannas, shady and humid forests, sparkling lakes, and fertile wetlands. This rich variety of habitats supports the classic big game. It has ten primate species, including chimpanzees, and a vibrant bird life.
The park is set against the backdrop of the jagged Rwenzori Mountains. It offers magnificent vistas. Visitors can see the large craters carved into green hills. They can also see the Kazinga Channel with hippos, buffalo, and elephants. They can explore the Ishasha plains. There, fig trees hide lions ready to pounce on herds of unsuspecting Uganda kob.
Beyond its natural wonders, Queen Elizabeth National Park has a fascinating cultural history. Locals welcome visitors with stories, dances, music, and more. The park was gazetted to conserve its ecosystems. This helps both wildlife and the nearby communities.
Most of the park comprises open grassland and savanna, which is more moist and woody in the west than in the east. Thorny acacia dominates the savanna habitat. It has many candelabra shrubs, a type of cactus. They grow along the Kazinga Channel and on the Kasenyi plains. The park supports at least 95 mammal species. This includes 20 carnivores, such as lions, leopards, jackals, and hyenas.
Queen Elizabeth National Park offers a variety of activities to enhance your visit.
– Kazinga Boat Cruise
– Game Drives
– Chimpanzee Tracking
– Birding
– Lion Tracking
– Cultural Encounters
– Hiking and Nature Walks
There are numerous accommodation options available to suit different preferences and budgets.
– Enganzi Lodge
– Ishasha Wilderness Camp
– Elephant Plains Lodge
– Elephant Hub Lodge
– Queen Elizabeth Bush Lodge
– Kyambura Gorge Lodge
– King Fisher Lodge Kichwamba
– Katara Lodge
– Jacana Safari Lodge
– Ihamba Safari Lodge
– Wild Tracks Overland Camp
Download Park Brochure
Download the Queen Elizabeth National Park Brochure here: Queen Elizabeth National Park Brochure
Queen Elizabeth National Park is a true Medley of Wonders. It offers an unforgettable experience for all who visit.
