There is a special place in Uganda where lions have learned to climb trees and thus totally dominate the territory. This place was one of the most loved by the young Queen Elizabeth 2 and was named after her in 1954 (previously it was called Kazinga National Park). The Queen Elizabeth National Park is today one of the most fascinating of the great Ugandan natural heritage. Not only for the typically African landscapes – very suitable for safaris – but also for the climate. In fact, the park rises to 980 meters above sea level, immersed in a cool and green environment.
What to see, what to do at Queen Elizabeth National Park
Safari and bird watching are the two main activities tourists love to do at Queen Elizabeth National Park. Observing the famous “climbing lions” up close is exciting, but it is also exciting to admire leopards, monkeys, elephants, hippos and other wonderful elements of typical African fauna.
One of the most exciting activities to do at the park is a boat trip on the Kazinga channel, which also forms a small lake crossed by the equator line – and any good guide will not fail to point it out! You will visit the place where the young queen Elizabeth stayed, but also the villages of the local tribes which are famous for their skilled dancers.
Those who love bird watching, accompanied by expert guides, shall have the chance to admire over 600 species of birds in the most beautiful points of the park. And the best part is that you can also sleep inside the territory of the national park, so to feel at one with this paradise!
The best resorts inside and around the Park
The whole Kazinga region thrives on tourism thanks to the national park. Therefore it is easy to find accommodation among many interesting proposals. We have chosen five to help you decide. Here’s what they are.
Baboon Safari Lodge
A delightful scattered hotel, made up of African-hut style cottages (with thatched roof). Each has a private garden, parking and all the comforts a tourist could wish for. Located on the edge of the park with panoramic views, it organizes many interesting activities. To contact them: kyamburaheritage@gmail.com or phone 256/752917877.
Elephant Plains Lodge
A large modern and functional structure, but perfectly immersed in the wild environment of the park thanks to its typically African architecture, the Elephant Plains offers luxury stays. The rooms and mini apartments are equipped with every comfort. Some lodgings are obtained from “huts” while others are in brick houses. The resort also organizes many activities and has dedicated staff to assist tourists in every single need. Also for this reason, places are limited and it is always good to book in advance: telephone 256/701426368 or just contact the national park directly at www.queenelizabethparkuganda.com/accomodation-choices/elephant-plains-lodge/.
Ihamba Lakeside Safari Lodge
Located inside the park, on the shores of Lake George, this resort is housed in a completely refurbished farm. The architecture in typical African style, however, hides a very modern tourist structure, suitable for the needs of the most complicated travelers. Many services available. Famous for its “tranquility”, this lodge especially organizes bird watching expeditions to the most secret places in the park. To contact them, call: 256/705555056 or 0393/513675.
Kikorongo Safari Lodge
Located in a fabulous viewpoint surrounded by the forest, the Kikorongo Lodge is managed in a pleasant family atmosphere that always makes you feel welcome. The facebook page states that it is a place created “in order to make you relax and forget the stress thanks to moments of quiet and interesting activities”. The accommodations are in wood cottages or in maxi tents. All the services available. To contact them: info@kikorongosafarilodge.com.
Kyangabi Crater Resort
In this western-style luxury property, each accommodation is a mini apartment equipped with every modern comfort. The structure extends over a large green area and has a restaurant, swimming pool, conference room, transfer service with driver . They also organize numerous themed guided tours – inside the national park but also in nearby towns. Find their contacts on the highly efficient official website (link here).
