Queen Elizabeth National Park
Top 5 Things To DoAfter conquering the high peaks of the Mountains of the Moon, your Ugandan adventure is far from over. Just a short drive south of Kasese lies Queen Elizabeth National Park. This incredible reserve is Uganda’s most popular tourist destination and offers the ultimate classic African safari experience.
Because the park sits on the floor of the Albertine Rift Valley, it features a massive variety of habitats. You will find open savannahs, dense forests, and sparkling lakes all in one place. If you are planning to add a wildlife safari to your trekking itinerary, here are the top five things you must do.
Take a Boat Cruise on the Kazinga Channel
The Kazinga Channel is a wide waterway that connects Lake Edward and Lake George. Taking an afternoon boat cruise here is an absolute must.
As you glide along the water, you will pass one of the world’s largest concentrations of hippos. Huge Nile crocodiles bask openly on the muddy banks, and herds of elephants frequently come down to the water to drink and bathe. For bird lovers, the channel shores teem with hundreds of colorful bird species.
Morning Game Drive on the Kasenyi Plains
The Kasenyi Plains provide the classic savannah safari experience you see in wildlife documentaries. You should wake up early to catch the predators while they are still active.
Your guide will track prides of lions hunting the abundant Uganda kobs. As you drive through the golden grasslands, you will also spot massive herds of cape buffaloes, warthogs, and majestic elephants roaming freely.
Spot the Tree-Climbing Lions of Ishasha
Head to the southern sector of the park to witness a truly rare wildlife phenomenon. The Ishasha sector is globally famous for its tree-climbing lions.
During the heat of the afternoon, these massive cats climb high into the branches of ancient fig trees. They do this to escape the biting insects on the ground and to enjoy the cool coastal breeze. Spotting a full-grown lion sleeping on a tree branch is an unforgettable photographic moment.
Track Chimpanzees in the Kyambura Gorge
Known as the “Valley of Apes,” Kyambura Gorge is a dramatic sunken forest plunging deep into the flat savannah floor.
Guided treks take you down into this dense, humid jungle to track a habituated family of wild chimpanzees. Hiking through the thick vegetation while listening to their loud, echoing calls is a thrilling adventure that perfectly complements your high-altitude mountain treks.
Explore the Katwe Explosion Craters
The violent volcanic history of Western Uganda left behind a stunning landscape of crater lakes. You can take a scenic drive through the Katwe Crater area to enjoy panoramic views of the park and the distant mountain ranges.
You must also visit Lake Katwe to watch local communities harvesting salt. The locals still use centuries-old traditional methods to mine salt from the alkaline water, providing a fascinating cultural experience.
Combine the Mountains and the Savannah
Queen Elizabeth National Park provides the perfect, relaxing contrast to a rigorous mountain trek. Going from glacial peaks to sun-drenched savannahs in a single day is a travel experience unique to Western Uganda.
At Rwenzori Hantravel Safaris, we seamlessly combine your mountain climbing goals with unforgettable savannah wildlife tours.
Book Your Ultimate SafariWhich of these five activities are you most excited to experience? Leave a comment below!