Top 5 Best Queen Elizabeth National Park Safari Tours 2026/2027/2028
The best Queen Elizabeth National Park safari tours combine classic game drives, the famous Kazinga Channel boat safari, tree-climbing lions in Ishasha, expert local guides, and flexible itineraries ranging from 2 to 7 days. These tours can be enjoyed as standalone safaris or combined with gorilla and chimpanzee trekking experiences in Uganda.
Queen Elizabeth National Park is Uganda’s most diverse and scenic safari destination, famous for its tree-climbing lions, abundant wildlife, dramatic landscapes, and the iconic Kazinga Channel boat safari. Our Top 5 Best Queen Elizabeth National Park Safari Tours 2026/2027/2028 are carefully designed to deliver authentic wildlife encounters, comfortable accommodations, and exceptional value. Operated by Paradise Africa Safaris, a trusted local East African safari company, these tours are fully customizable and ideal for wildlife lovers, photographers, families, and adventure seekers.
Why Queen Elizabeth National Park Is Uganda’s Top Wildlife Destination
Queen Elizabeth National Park is widely regarded as Uganda’s most complete and diverse wildlife safari destination. Located in western Uganda, between Lake Edward and Lake George, the park covers over 1,978 square kilometers and offers an extraordinary blend of savannah plains, wetlands, crater lakes, forests, and waterways. This remarkable diversity supports one of the highest biodiversity concentrations in Africa.
Unlike many single-ecosystem parks, Queen Elizabeth National Park delivers a multi-experience safari in one destination. Visitors can enjoy classic game drives, boat safaris, birding, cultural encounters, and primate experiences within a short distance of each other. Its excellent road access and proximity to other major attractions—such as Kibale Forest National Park and Bwindi Impenetrable Forest—make it a cornerstone of Uganda safari itineraries.
Key reasons Queen Elizabeth National Park ranks as Uganda’s top wildlife destination include:
- Exceptional wildlife density and diversity
- The world-famous Kazinga Channel boat safari
- Rare tree-climbing lions of Ishasha
- Over 600 recorded bird species
- Easy combination with chimpanzee and gorilla trekking safaris
Wildlife, Birdlife & Ecosystems of Queen Elizabeth National Park
Queen Elizabeth National Park boasts an extraordinary range of ecosystems, each supporting different wildlife species and safari experiences. This ecological diversity is what sets the park apart from other safari destinations in Uganda and East Africa.
Mammals & Big Game
The park is home to over 95 mammal species, including elephants, buffaloes, lions, leopards, spotted hyenas, Uganda kob, waterbuck, warthogs, and giant forest hogs. The Kasese Plains and Mweya Peninsula are particularly productive areas for game drives, offering consistent sightings throughout the year.
The Kazinga Channel Ecosystem
The 32-kilometer-long Kazinga Channel connects Lake Edward and Lake George and is the park’s most iconic feature. A boat safari along the channel reveals one of the highest concentrations of hippos in Africa, large Nile crocodiles, elephants cooling along the shoreline, and countless bird species. The Kazinga Channel boat cruise is often considered the highlight of a Queen Elizabeth National Park safari.
Crater Lakes & Wetlands
The northern sector of the park is dotted with ancient volcanic crater lakes, creating dramatic scenery and supporting diverse birdlife. These crater lakes contribute to the park’s unique landscape and offer excellent photography opportunities, especially during sunrise and sunset.
Birdlife
Queen Elizabeth National Park is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with more than 600 bird species recorded. Key sightings include African fish eagle, saddle-billed stork, shoebill (in nearby wetlands), flamingos, pelicans, and numerous raptors. This makes the park one of the best birding destinations in Africa.
The Famous Tree-Climbing Lions of Ishasha Sector
One of Queen Elizabeth National Park’s most unique attractions is the tree-climbing lions found in the Ishasha sector, located in the park’s southern region near the border with the Democratic Republic of Congo. These lions exhibit the rare behavior of climbing large fig trees, where they rest during the heat of the day.
While the exact reason for this behavior is still debated, theories include escaping insects on the ground, catching cool breezes, or maintaining a vantage point over prey. Regardless of the reason, sightings of tree-climbing lions are a major highlight of any safari in Queen Elizabeth National Park and are not commonly found elsewhere in Africa.
The Ishasha sector also offers a quieter, more remote safari experience with fewer vehicles, making it ideal for travelers seeking exclusivity and outstanding wildlife photography.
Top 5 Best Queen Elizabeth National Park Safari Tours (2026/2027/2028)
Below are the Top 5 Best Queen Elizabeth National Park Safari Tours for 2026/2027/2028, carefully selected and operated by Paradise Africa Safaris. Each tour is designed to match different travel styles, budgets, and interests, while maximizing wildlife sightings and overall safari value.
3 Days Queen Elizabeth National Park Safari
Best for: Short safaris, first-time visitors, budget-conscious travelers
This 3-day Queen Elizabeth National Park safari is ideal for travelers with limited time who still want a complete wildlife experience. The tour focuses on the Mweya Peninsula and Kasenyi Plains, two of the most productive game-viewing areas in the park. Expect excellent sightings of elephants, buffaloes, Uganda kob, warthogs, and predators such as lions and leopards.
A highlight of this safari is the Kazinga Channel boat cruise, where you will encounter large pods of hippos, Nile crocodiles, elephants along the shoreline, and abundant birdlife. Comfortable mid-range or budget lodges near the park ensure minimal driving time and maximum wildlife exposure.
Key highlights:
- Guided game drives in Kasenyi Plains
- Kazinga Channel boat safari
- Professional driver-guide & 4×4 safari vehicle
3-day Queen Elizabeth National Park safari featuring game drives and a Kazinga Channel boat cruise. Ideal short Uganda wildlife safari with excellent value.
4 Days Queen Elizabeth & Kazinga Channel Safari
Best for: Wildlife lovers seeking a relaxed pace
This 4-day safari allows more time to explore Queen Elizabeth National Park at a comfortable pace. In addition to extended game drives, you enjoy a leisurely Kazinga Channel boat safari, widely regarded as one of the best boat safaris in Africa.
The extra night allows for flexible game viewing schedules, increased chances of spotting lions and leopards, and time to appreciate the park’s diverse landscapes, including crater lakes and open savannahs. This itinerary is perfect for travelers who want depth without rushing.
Key highlights:
- Extended game drives
- Kazinga Channel boat cruise
- Scenic crater lake views
4-day Queen Elizabeth National Park safari with extended game drives and the iconic Kazinga Channel boat cruise. Perfect for relaxed Uganda wildlife safaris.
5 Days Queen Elizabeth & Ishasha Tree-Climbing Lions Safari
Best for: Photographers & wildlife enthusiasts
This 5-day safari combines the northern and southern sectors of Queen Elizabeth National Park, including the famous Ishasha sector, home to the rare tree-climbing lions. Game drives in Ishasha offer a quieter, more exclusive safari experience with excellent photography opportunities.
In addition to Ishasha, the itinerary includes the Kazinga Channel boat safari and classic game drives in the Kasenyi Plains. This well-balanced safari is one of the most popular choices for travelers seeking variety and iconic wildlife encounters.
Key highlights:
- Tree-climbing lions of Ishasha
- Kazinga Channel boat safari
- Diverse landscapes & fewer crowds
5-day Queen Elizabeth safari featuring Ishasha tree-climbing lions, Kazinga Channel boat cruise, and classic game drives. Ideal for wildlife photographers.
6 Days Queen Elizabeth & Chimpanzee Trekking Safari
Best for: Primate lovers & mixed-experience travelers
This safari combines chimpanzee trekking in Kibale Forest National Park with a classic Queen Elizabeth National Park wildlife safari. The journey begins with an unforgettable chimpanzee tracking experience led by Uganda Wildlife Authority rangers, followed by game drives and a boat safari in Queen Elizabeth.
This itinerary is ideal for travelers who want to experience both primates and savannah wildlife in one seamless trip, making it one of the most rewarding Uganda safari combinations.
Key highlights:
- Chimpanzee trekking in Kibale Forest
- Queen Elizabeth game drives
- Kazinga Channel boat safari
6-day Uganda safari combining chimpanzee trekking in Kibale Forest with Queen Elizabeth National Park game drives and boat safari.
7 Days Queen Elizabeth, Gorilla & Wildlife Safari
Best for: Ultimate Uganda safari experience
This 7-day safari offers the most comprehensive Uganda wildlife journey, combining Queen Elizabeth National Park, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park gorilla trekking, and iconic savannah wildlife experiences. After game drives and a Kazinga Channel boat safari in Queen Elizabeth, you proceed to Bwindi for a once-in-a-lifetime mountain gorilla encounter.
This itinerary is ideal for travelers seeking a true bucket-list African safari, blending big game, primates, and breathtaking landscapes.
Key highlights:
- Queen Elizabeth National Park game drives
- Kazinga Channel boat safari
- Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
7-day Uganda safari combining Queen Elizabeth National Park wildlife, Kazinga Channel boat cruise, and unforgettable gorilla trekking in Bwindi.Top 5 Best Queen Elizabeth National Park Safari Tours
Price Comparison Table – Queen Elizabeth National Park Safari Tours (2026–2028)
The table below provides a transparent price comparison for the most popular Queen Elizabeth National Park safari tours. Prices vary depending on season, accommodation level, group size, and permit availability.
| Safari Package | Duration | Safari Style | Price From (USD) | Key Inclusions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Queen Elizabeth Express Safari | 3 Days | Budget / Mid-range | From 950 | Game drives, Kazinga boat safari, park fees |
| Queen Elizabeth & Kazinga Safari | 4 Days | Mid-range | From 1,350 | Extended game drives, boat cruise, lodge stay |
| Ishasha Tree-Climbing Lions Safari | 5 Days | Mid-range | From 1,950 | Ishasha game drives, Kazinga Channel, full board |
| Queen Elizabeth & Chimpanzee Safari | 6 Days | Mid-range / Luxury | From 2,650 | Chimp trekking permit, wildlife safari, boat cruise |
| Queen Elizabeth & Gorilla Safari | 7 Days | Mid-range / Luxury | 3,450 | Gorilla permit, wildlife safari, park fees |
Prices are indicative and subject to change for 2026/2027/2028 seasons.
Best Time to Visit Queen Elizabeth National Park (2026/2027/2028)
Queen Elizabeth National Park is a year-round safari destination, but certain months offer better conditions depending on travel goals.
Dry Seasons (Best Overall)
June to September and December to February are the best times for game viewing. Wildlife concentrates around water sources, roads are easier to navigate, and photography conditions are excellent.
Green / Low Seasons (Best Value)
March to May and October to November bring lush landscapes, fewer tourists, and lower lodge rates. While some tracks may be muddy, wildlife sightings remain rewarding, especially along the Kazinga Channel.
Birding Season
Birdwatchers will find Queen Elizabeth National Park exceptional year-round, with migratory species present from November to April.
Queen Elizabeth National Park vs Other Uganda Safari Parks
Choosing the right safari destination depends on travel interests. Below is a comparison between Queen Elizabeth National Park and other major Uganda parks.
| Park | Best For | Key Highlights |
| Queen Elizabeth NP | Wildlife diversity | Kazinga Channel, tree-climbing lions, birdlife |
| Murchison Falls NP | Iconic scenery | Nile boat safari, waterfalls, big game |
| Bwindi Impenetrable NP | Primates | Mountain gorilla trekking |
| Kibale Forest NP | Primates | Chimpanzee trekking |
Queen Elizabeth National Park stands out as the most versatile park, offering classic wildlife safaris, boat cruises, and easy combination with primate trekking destinations.
Eco-Green & Responsible Safaris in Queen Elizabeth National Park
Paradise Africa Safaris is committed to eco-green and responsible tourism in Queen Elizabeth National Park. Our safaris are designed to minimize environmental impact while maximizing conservation and community benefits.
We prioritize small-group safaris, low-emission safari vehicles, and eco-conscious lodges that actively support wildlife conservation and local employment. A portion of park fees and tourism revenue directly funds habitat protection, anti-poaching initiatives, and community development projects surrounding the park.
By choosing an eco-friendly Queen Elizabeth National Park safari, you help preserve Uganda’s natural heritage while enjoying ethical wildlife encounters.
Why Book with Paradise Africa Safaris
Paradise Africa Safaris is a locally owned East African safari operator with extensive experience designing and operating Uganda wildlife safaris. Our team lives and works in the region, giving us unmatched insight into wildlife movements, seasonal conditions, and the best safari routes.
Why travellers trust us:
- Direct partnerships with lodges and Uganda Wildlife Authority ( UWA)
- Experienced local driver-guides and naturalists
- Transparent pricing with no hidden costs
- Highly rated by international travellers
- 24/7 on-ground support from arrival to departure
Booking with a local expert ensures smoother logistics, better wildlife experiences, and direct support for conservation and communities.
Frequently Asked Questions – Queen Elizabeth National Park Safaris
Is Queen Elizabeth National Park good for a first-time safari?
Yes. Queen Elizabeth National Park is ideal for first-time safari travelers due to its high wildlife density, diverse activities, and easy accessibility.
What animals can I see in Queen Elizabeth National Park?
You can expect to see elephants, buffaloes, lions, leopards, hippos, crocodiles, antelopes, and over 600 bird species.
How many days are enough for Queen Elizabeth National Park?
A minimum of 3 days is recommended, while 4–5 days allows a more relaxed safari with game drives and a Kazinga Channel boat cruise.
Can Queen Elizabeth National Park be combined with gorilla trekking?
Yes. Queen Elizabeth National Park is commonly combined with gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and chimpanzee trekking in Kibale Forest.
Plan Your Queen Elizabeth National Park Safari (2026–2028)
Contact Paradise Africa Safaris today to secure the best routes, lodges, and wildlife experiences with a trusted local operator.
WhatsApp: +254 728 567 308 Website: https://paradiseafricasafari.com
Previous Travellers’ Reviews – Queen Elizabeth National Park Safaris
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “An outstanding wildlife safari in Uganda”
— Olivia M., United Kingdom
Our Queen Elizabeth National Park safari exceeded all expectations. The game drives were excellent, and the Kazinga Channel boat cruise was unforgettable — hippos, elephants, and birds everywhere. Paradise Africa Safaris handled everything professionally from start to finish.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Perfect balance of wildlife and scenery”
— Martin K., Germany
We saw elephants, buffalo, lions, and incredible birdlife. The scenery around the crater lakes and the Kazinga Channel was breathtaking. Our guide was knowledgeable and patient, making this one of the best safaris we’ve ever done in Africa.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Tree-climbing lions were a dream come true”
— Sasha R., United States
The Ishasha sector was the highlight of our trip. Seeing tree-climbing lions resting in fig trees was surreal. The safari was well-paced, the accommodations were comfortable, and everything ran smoothly. Highly recommended.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Excellent organisation and local expertise”
— Daniel P., Australia
Paradise Africa Safaris truly stands out as a local operator. From clear communication to expert guiding, everything was seamless. Queen Elizabeth National Park offered amazing wildlife diversity, and the boat safari was one of the best experiences of our trip.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “A must-do safari in Uganda”
— Amina S., Canada
Queen Elizabeth National Park is incredibly rich in wildlife and landscapes. We loved the combination of game drives and the Kazinga Channel cruise. Booking with Paradise Africa Safaris gave us confidence, flexibility, and a very personal safari experience.
