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Queen Elizabeth National Park, located in western Uganda, is one of Africa's most biodiverse and popular safari destinations. Spanning 1,978 square kilometers (764 square miles), it offers breathtaking landscapes, rich wildlife, and cultural heritage. The park straddles the equator and features monuments marking its latitude, adding to its uniqueness. It is bordered by Kasese, Kamwenge, Rubirizi, and Rukungiri districts and lies approximately 420 kilometers southwest of Kampala, Uganda's capital.
Originally established in 1952 as Kazinga National Park, it was renamed in 1954 to honor Queen Elizabeth II of England following her visit. The park's history dates back to colonial times when it was created by combining Lake George and Lake Edward Game Reserves. Over the years, conservation efforts have restored its wildlife population after periods of human conflict that severely impacted the ecosystem.
The park is situated within the Western Rift Valley and is surrounded by prominent landmarks such as Lake Edward, the Kazinga Channel, Kyambura Gorge, and the Rwenzori Mountains. It also adjoins Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo to the west.
Mammals: Over 95 species, including African elephants, lions (including tree-climbing lions), leopards, hippos, chimpanzees, antelopes like topi and reedbuck.
Birds: More than 620 species, making it a birding paradise. Notable species include kingfishers and migratory birds.
Aquatic Life: Hippos and crocodiles are commonly seen along the Kazinga Channel.
The ideal time to visit is during the dry seasons: January to February and June to September. These months provide better opportunities for wildlife viewing as animals gather around water sources.
Visitors must adhere to conservation guidelines such as:
Avoid feeding or disturbing animals.
Stay within designated areas during safaris.
Follow park regulations regarding littering and noise levels.
The entry fee for Queen Elizabeth National Park varies based on nationality:
Foreign Non-residents: $40 per adult per day.
Foreign Residents: $30 per adult per day.
East African Citizens: UGX 20,000 per adult per day.
Children under 15 years enjoy discounted rates.
Kazinga Channel: Famous for boat cruises offering views of hippos, buffaloes, elephants, and diverse bird species.
Ishasha Sector: Known for tree-climbing lions.
Kyambura Gorge: Ideal for chimpanzee tracking.
Maramagambo Forest: A haven for birdwatchers.
Explosion Craters: Scenic volcanic craters scattered across the parks.
Visitors should pack:
Comfortable clothing suitable for tropical climates.
Binoculars for birdwatching.
Sunscreen and insect repellent.
Cameras for capturing wildlife moments.
Water bottles to stay hydrated during activities.
The cost of safaris depends on the activity:
Game Drives: Range from $50-$150 per vehicle depending on duration.
Boat Cruises on Kazinga Channel: Approximately $30-$40 per person.
Chimpanzee Tracking: Around $50-$150 depending on permits.
Queen Elizabeth National Park welcomes senior citizens and children. Special arrangements can be made for elderly visitors requiring assistance during safaris. Children under 15 years are allowed but must be accompanied by adults during activities like game drives or boat cruises.
Queen Elizabeth National Park offers a unique blend of natural beauty, abundant wildlife, and cultural experiences that make it an unforgettable destination for travelers worldwide.
