OVERVIEWThe approximate area of QENP is 1,978 square kilometres (764 sq mi). African elephant, African buffalo, Ugandan kob, hippopotamus, topi, waterbuck, warthog, giant forest hog, Nile crocodile, leopard, spotted hyena, chimpanzee, and lion are among the park's many species. There are more than 600 bird species and 95 animal species in the park overall. The Rukungiri District's Ishasha area is well-known for its tree-climbing lions, many of whom have black manes. Samuel John Mwandha, executive director of the Uganda Wildlife Authority, said in 2020 that the park's wildlife has been growing during the previous five years.Visitors can engage in a variety of thrilling activities in Queen Elizabeth National Park. To see the variety of animals, such as lions, buffaloes, hippos, and elephants, game drives are a must. Unique vistas of wildlife like buffaloes, hippos, and a variety of bird species can be seen during boat cruises on the Kazinga Channel. Another well-liked activity is chimpanzee trekking in Kalinzu Forest and Kyambura Gorge. Follow the tree-climbing lions in the Ishasha area for a one-of-a-kind experience.  BEST 7 ACTIVITIES IN QUEEN ELIZABETH NATIONAL PARK1. Boat Safaris on the Kazinga Channel.One of the most well-liked methods of park exploration is by boat safari. The wildlife in the Kazinga Channel is abundant. It links Lake Edward and Lake George, and as it cruises, its distinctive biodiverse combination is revealed.The Kazinga channel banks are lined with hippos, buffaloes in herds, elephants and the unending beauty of the Ishasha plains. You get to see the exceptional beauty of the diverse array of plants and animals the channel has along its borders from a whole new angle while on the intimate trip with no more than ten passengers.Boat safaris on the Kazinga channel are an exciting experience that one should not miss at Queen Elizabeth Safari Park because of the expansive scenery, first-rate guide tours on the voyage, and the best infotainment available. 2. Safari Game Drives.Safari game drives are among the top activities in Queen Elizabeth National Park and offer an exciting chance to see animals. They are facilitated by park guides and comfortable, well-spaced, open-roof vehicles with clear windows.You can take pictures of the many animals in their natural settings while touring the park in luxury during these game drives. Short stops are made to discuss and provide information about the animals being seen as the game drives get closer to it.You can learn about the eco systems outside of a classroom by doing this with the help of the tour guides on board. How awesome is this with ossicones safaris? Well, as cool as travelling across the Kasenyi plains and seeing its notably open Savannah, which offers the chance to see wildlife, including the lions that climb trees.Touring the Mweya Peninsula during a safari game drive offers breathtaking scenery and an up-close look at the Kazinga Channel. Safari game drives are among the most popular activities since the tour operators are considerate of the customers' interests in wildlife. 3. Chimpanzee Trekking in Kyambura Gorge.Only morning and afternoon sessions are available for chimpanzee trekking, and each session may accommodate no more than eight tourists. For all nature lovers, following these intelligent monkeys in their native, verdant forest environments under the guidance of knowledgeable experts is a well-rounded experience.Because chimpanzees are noisy and have remarkably coordinated vocalisations, there is an 85% probability of seeing one in the Valley of Apes. When given peace, chimpanzees are gregarious creatures, therefore they don't appear to be as boring as we may imagine.Have you ever been hugged by a chimp? If not, your list of activities in Queen Elizabeth National Park should include chimpanzee tracking at Kyambura. When the proper procedure is followed, tracking chimpanzees is easier on paper than it is on the ground.Before the journey begins, park rangers register visitors and give them an overview of the tracking adventure. They find the chimpanzees and guide visitors in their study of these gregarious creatures. 4. Lion Tracking.One of the most exciting things to do in Queen Elizabeth National Park is tracking lions, which is not only an amazing experience but also a very tense situation. For those who are animal enthusiasts, this exhilarating trip across the park's many landscapes offers a special kind of experience.Under the direction of certified tour operators and knowledgeable experts, lion tracking is typically conducted in the early morning and late afternoon. These trackers follow radio collars to direct them directly to the lions' position in the Ishasha area.Lions travel in groups of four to twenty, which suggests that very few people participate in the tracking process. This is done to keep them from being scared away and, more critically, to keep them from being stressed. A memorable and responsible wildlife experience requires adherence to park regulations, a focus on safety, and respect for the animals and their surroundings. Game drives, walking safaris, and even specialised lion tracking trips organised by lodges in Queen Elizabeth National Park are included in this list.Insights about lion behaviour in ecosystems and the difficulties they encounter are shared through Lion Tracking at Queen Elizabeth Park. Visitors delve deeply into the idea of these creatures, developing an understanding of the significance of protecting these species and their environments.Wildlife protection is directly aided by taking part in the thrilling lion tracking expedition in Ishasha. This occurs because the money raised from this trip is used for community-based conservation initiatives, park upkeep, and anti-poaching activities. 5. Nature Walks and Guided Bush Walks.Tour guides lead this exhilarating adventure and describe the plants and animals seen along the way. The hikes are well-known for passing through the Kyambura Gorge, the Maragambo Forest, the Ishasha Plains, and the Mweya Peninsula.The high definition view of the exciting wildlife, including chimpanzees in the Kyambura Gorge, tree-climbing lions in the Ishsha sector, the dense vegetation in the Maramagambo forest, crocodiles and hippos along the Kazinga channel, and many other exciting animals, is guaranteed on these walks.The trails provide a place on the scenery for animals like the saddle-billed stork and the endangered white-tailed lark on the Kazinga Channel's coasts.  The adventure you need may be found in nature hikes and escorted bush walks. Bush guided experiences are a little different from nature walks in that they are more intensive and involve more wild insights, sounds, and scents, as well as encounters with the bush in its natural habitat. At Queen Elizabeth National Park, you won't want to miss this private, unique experience either.Safety tips for these walks include staying in sight of the tour guides at all times, following the designated routes, and saving the excitement for late-night conversations. Keep in mind that straying puts you in unimaginable danger by upsetting wildlife.      5. Hot Air Balloon Safaris.This is a very wonderful experience! You are given to a panoramic view of the park's actual landscape as the balloon slowly rises. A unique viewpoint for seeing wildlife in its natural environment is offered by the aerial perspective.Typically, there are little more than eight passengers on the aircraft, along with a tour guide and onboard entertainment. The sun rising and setting with its rays in all the vibrant colours of the spectrum is without a doubt one of the adventure's highlights.Since buffaloes and elephants are adept at maintaining their numbers in the most efficient ways possible, the aerial image of them trekking in their herds is just breathtaking. Another thrill that every visitor should include on their list of things to do in Queen Elizabeth Park is riding in a hot air balloon. 6. Visiting Katwe Salt Mines.Here, you may observe the time-consuming process of extracting salt from the shallow Crater Lakes. The travel tours provide guidance on this. Communities have always engaged in the activity of extracting salt. For Native Americans, it is extremely significant. Here is a simple summary of how much heritage and tradition matter.This practice is an important component of the key aspect that has been passed down from generation to generation. Participating in salt mining as a native shows tenacity and flexibility to a custom that is deeply ingrained in the culture.Economic means of livelihood.Many families in the area make their living from the extraction of salt. Because it supports the livelihoods of people engaged in the extraction process, its economic significance cannot be emphasised.A visit offers a greater comprehension of the cultural heritage and fabric of the towns surrounding Queen Elizabeth National Park in addition to a view into the commercial side of salt mining. 7. Birding From the deep tropical forest of Kyambura Gorge to the wetland habitats of Lakes Edward and George, Queen Elizabeth National Park is home to a wide variety of bird life.Queen Elizabeth National Park boasts the most extensive list of bird species of any East African protected area, with over 600 species identified.Notable crittersMore than 150 bird species, including the endangered saddle-billed stork and the African jacana, can be found in the marshes of Lake George, a birder's paradise.Because of their abundant biodiversity, Lake George's wetlands were named Uganda's first Ramsar site in March 1988. Lake Edward has seen multiple sightings of the lesser flamingo.The Kazinga Channel is home to numerous different water bird species, such as the yellow-billed stork, African Fish Eagle, and African skimmer.The African finfoot, blue-headed bee-eater, martial eagle, and white-tailed lark can all be found in Kyambura Gorge. Best Time to Visit Queen Elizabeth National Park.Seasonal variations might affect the time of year when one experiences wildlife and sees the species. The wet and dry seasons are the two seasonal shifts that Queen Elizabeth National Park experiences throughout the year. December, January, February, June, July, August, and September are the months with the highest percentage of dry weather.March, April, May, October, and November are the wet seasons. During the dry season, it is easier to spot animals during safari drives, nature walks, and other sighting techniques since they are seen congregating around water sources.The birth of newborn animals, particularly carnivores, is another spectacle of the dry season. If your family is a fan of young cubs, take them to the park during the dry season for an experience they won't soon forget. Although it is clear that the majority of birds breed and fly around with great vigour and gallantry during the wet season, it is somewhat less adventurous than the dry season. ACCOMODATIONS IN QUEEN ELIZABETH NATIONAL PARKSituated in the eastern section of the park, adjacent to the Kyambura Gorge, Kyambura Gorge Lodge is rapidly becoming as one of Uganda's top lodging choices. Its location makes it the ideal starting point for boat safaris, game drives, and monkey trekking.Mweya Safari Lodge holds a prominent position in this area. Established more than 30 years ago as a government facility, this big hotel is a heritage property. Although it's not as cosy as other smaller houses, the central location is unbeatable. Ideal for getting to boat trips on the Kazinga Channel.Even though additional lodges are being built, this is still the most peaceful location with the least amount of human activity. The well-known favourite here is Ishasha Wilderness Camp, a beautifully cosy and discreetly designed camp on the banks of the Ishasha River, which serves as the natural boundary between the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Uganda. What Big Five Animals Are Found in Queen Elizabeth?Lions – including the famous tree-climbing lions of Ishasha sector.Leopards – though more elusive, they are present in the park.Elephants – large herds roam the savannah and along the Kazinga Channel.African Buffaloes – very common and found in big numbers across the park. The only one missing from the Big Five in Queen Elizabeth is the rhinoceros. Rhinos were once present in Uganda but were wiped out in the 1980s. Today, they can only be seen at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary near Murchison Falls, not in QENP. “From the mighty elephants to the iconic tree-climbing lions, Queen Elizabeth National Park is home to 4 of Africa’s Big Five. 🦁🐘🐃🐆 Only the rhino is missing—but the adventure here is full and wild! 🌍✨Catch up with these animals with us Ossicones Safari Uganda - Tour & Travel 

Step Into the WildThere’s a moment in every safari when time slows down—the grass sways, the birds hush, and the only sound you hear is your heartbeat. Then, out of the silence, a lion appears on the track, golden eyes fixed ahead. This is the magic of Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda’s most iconic safari destination.Stretching from the Rwenzori Mountains to the shores of Lake Edward, this park is home to sprawling savannahs, lush forests, crater lakes, and an astonishing diversity of wildlife. And at the heart of it all? The legendary Big Five. MEET THE BIG FIVE OF QUEEN ELIZABETH NATIONAL PARK1. African Lion (Tree-Climbing Lions of Ishasha) Unlike anywhere else in Africa, the lions here spend their days lounging in fig trees. Spotting them is a photographer’s dream and a memory you’ll never forget.Way of Life: Lions are social cats living in prides (usually 10–15 lions). Male lions defend the territory, while females do most of the hunting.Feeding: Carnivorous. Hunt in groups to catch medium-to-large herbivores like zebras, wildebeests, and buffaloes.Capacity/Size: Males weigh 150–250 kg, females 120–182 kg. Shoulder height around 1.2 m.Gestation Period: 110 days.Why “Big Five”: Lions are formidable predators and dangerous to humans, making them one of the most challenging to hunt.Ecological Importance: As apex predators, lions control herbivore populations, preventing overgrazing and maintaining ecosystem balance. 2. The Stealthy Leopard (African Leopard)Rare and elusive, leopards prowl the Mweya Peninsula and Kasenyi plains. Sunrise or sunset drives are your best chance to glimpse this spotted ghost of the savannah.Way of Life: Solitary and mostly nocturnal. Leopards are secretive, excellent climbers, and often drag prey into trees to avoid scavengers.Feeding: Carnivorous. Eat antelopes, monkeys, rodents, and birds.Capacity/Size: Males weigh 37–90 kg, females 28–60 kg. Length: 1–1.5 m (excluding tail).Gestation Period: 90–105 days.Why “Big Five”: Known for their strength, stealth, and danger when hunted, making them highly prized by hunters.Ecological Importance: Control populations of smaller herbivores and mesopredators, helping maintain healthy biodiversity. 3. The Giants of the Kazinga Channel (African Elephant)Herds of elephants gather at the water’s edge, sometimes over a hundred strong. On a boat safari, you’ll see them splash, drink, and bathe against a backdrop of hippos and crocodiles.Way of Life: Elephants live in family herds led by a matriarch (the oldest female). They are highly social, intelligent, and communicate through sounds and vibrations. They travel long distances in search of food and water.Feeding: Herbivorous. They consume grasses, leaves, fruits, bark, and roots, eating up to 150 kg of vegetation daily.Capacity/Size: Largest land mammal. Males can weigh 4,500–6,800 kg and reach 3–4 m in height.Gestation Period: About 22 months (the longest of any land mammal).Why “Big Five”: Because of their size, strength, and difficulty to hunt on foot, they were historically considered the most dangerous to hunters.Ecological Importance: They are ecosystem engineers. By uprooting trees and clearing paths, they maintain savannah and forest ecosystems. Their dung disperses seeds and provides nutrients for other species. 4. The Untamed Buffalo (African Buffalo or Cape Buffalo)Strong and stubborn, buffalo move in massive herds across the plains—majestic and a little intimidating.Way of Life: Live in large herds ranging from a few individuals to thousands. Herds offer protection from predators.Feeding: Herbivorous. Graze on grasses; some species browse on shrubs.Capacity/Size: Males weigh 500–900 kg, females 400–700 kg. Shoulder height about 1.0–1.7 m.Gestation Period: About 11.5 months (340 days).Why “Big Five”: Extremely strong and unpredictable; capable of goring hunters.Ecological Importance: Maintain grassland ecosystems by grazing; their movement helps disperse seeds and their dung enriches the soil. 5. Rhinoceros (Black and White Rhino)Way of Life: Solitary (black rhino) or semi-social (white rhino). They have poor eyesight but a strong sense of smell and hearing.Feeding: Herbivorous. Black rhinos are browsers (eat shrubs, trees), white rhinos are grazers (eat grasses).Capacity/Size: White rhino weighs 1,400–3,600 kg, black rhino 800–1,400 kg. Shoulder height 1.5–1.8 m.Gestation Period: Black rhino: ~15 months; White rhino: 16–18 months.Why “Big Five”: Difficult to hunt due to size, horned threat, and aggressive defense.Ecological Importance: Graze and browse vegetation, shaping landscapes. Their dung supports insect populations and nutrient cycling.(Rhinos are the only Big Five missing here, but you can meet them at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary on a longer Ugandan safari.) Summary of “Big Five” Origin:The term “Big Five” was coined by big-game hunters for the five most difficult and dangerous animals to hunt on foot. Today, it’s a tourism and conservation term highlighting iconic African wildlife.Ecological Importance of the Big Five:Maintain balance in ecosystems through predation and grazing.Influence vegetation patterns and seed dispersal.Support biodiversity and ecosystem health.Attract tourism, supporting local economies and conservation funding. More Than the Big FiveQueen Elizabeth National Park holds more than big names. Explore Kyambura Gorge, also called the Valley of the Apes, for thrilling chimpanzee tracking. Cruise along the Kazinga Channel and watch hippos by the hundreds, crocodiles lurking, and an explosion of birdlife—over 600 species, from African fish eagles to flamboyant flamingos.This is a park where every turn writes a new story. How to Get ThereBy Road From Kampala or Entebbe, the drive takes 6–7 hours, winding through tea plantations, crater lakes, and lively towns. You can arrive via Fort Portal for breathtaking scenery or via Mbarara if you plan to connect with Bwindi or Lake Mburo.By Air Short flights with local carriers like Aerolink Uganda take you directly to Kasese, Mweya, or Ishasha airstrips. It’s quick, scenic, and perfect if you want more time in the wild.Best Time to VisitDry Seasons (Jan–Feb, Jun–Sept): Ideal for game drives, when animals gather around waterholes and grass stays short.Green Seasons (Mar–May, Oct–Dec): Lush landscapes, dramatic skies, and great photography, though with more rain.The park is open year-round—you just choose the story you want to experience. Where to StayLuxury: Kyambura Gorge Lodge, Ishasha Wilderness Camp, Elephant Plains Lodge.Mid-Range: Marafiki Safari Lodge, Parkview Lodge, Pumba Safari Cottages.Budget: Simba Safari Camp, Engiri Lodge, Mweya Hostels.Whether you crave comfort, style, or affordability, there’s always a bed waiting under the Ugandan stars. Why Choose Ossicones Safaris?Your safari isn’t just about seeing animals—it’s about how you experience them. At Ossicones Safaris, we create journeys that feel personal, thoughtful, and unforgettable.Perfectly Timed Safaris – We know when to find lions in the trees and when the elephants gather at the channel.Photography-Friendly – We design itineraries that give you golden light, unhurried drives, and room to capture that perfect shot.Local Expertise – With deep knowledge of western Uganda’s safari circuit, we connect you seamlessly from Queen Elizabeth to Bwindi, Kibale, or beyond.Unique Adventures – From Kazinga Channel cruises to chimp trekking in Kyambura, we make sure your safari is more than just a checklist.Tailored for You – Luxury or budget, honeymoon or family trip—we craft the experience around your story. Begin Your Story in the WildPicture yourself on a boat, drifting silently along the Kazinga Channel, camera in hand. Elephants drink at the shore, hippos snort beside you, and the sunset paints the sky gold. Later that evening, you fall asleep to the roar of lions in the distance.This is Queen Elizabeth National Park. This is Uganda.And with Ossicones Safaris, it’s not just a safari—it’s your story.Start planning your Big Five adventure with Ossicones Safaris today.Tap To Check our Package and Book Your Safari here or 3-Day Luxury Queen Elizabeth National Park Safari (5–10 People) - Ossicones Safaris Uganda (For A Luxury Budget)