Queen Elizabeth National Park
Queen Elizabeth National Park: Where Wildlife Reigns Supreme
Queen Elizabeth National Park, covering an impressive 1,978 square kilometers (764 square miles), isn’t just a nod to royalty—it’s a true celebration of the animal kingdom. As one of Uganda’s oldest and most iconic parks, established in 1952 and named after Queen Elizabeth II, it boasts a stunning variety of landscapes, from golden savannahs to lush forests and shimmering wetlands. Whether you’re cruising along the Kazinga Channel, trekking on foot, or bouncing in a 4×4, every corner of this park offers a sensory overload of nature’s finest creations.
A Wild and Wonderful Welcome
This park rolls out the red carpet for some of Africa’s most famous residents: four of the Big Five—lions, leopards, elephants, and buffalo—are waiting to make your acquaintance. Giraffes tower over acacia trees, while zebras, Uganda kobs, and waterbucks make their way to the nearest watering hole. Down at the Kazinga Channel, hippos laze about while crocs lounge on the banks.
Predators like hyenas and leopards play it cool, but with a little luck, you might witness a jaw-dropping chase worthy of a wildlife documentary. And if you’re a birder, bring your binoculars—over 600 bird species make this park a feathered paradise. From the elegant grey crowned crane to the elusive shoebill, you’ll be spoilt for choice.
Fascinating Facts About Queen Elizabeth National Park
- Size: Spans 1,978 square kilometers (764 square miles).
- History: Established in 1952 and named after Queen Elizabeth II.
- Landscape: Offers a uniquely diverse environment, from savannahs to wetlands and volcanic features.
- Kazinga Channel: A 32-kilometer waterway connecting Lake George and Lake Edward, home to hippos, crocodiles, and the ancient shoebill.
- Tree-Climbing Lions: Found in the southern Ishasha sector, these lions are one of the park’s most unique attractions.
- Hippos: Holds the largest population of hippos in East Africa.