Wander Winds Travel offers authentic experiences to the pearl of Africa.
HOME TO THE TREE CLIMBING LIONS
Queen Elizabeth National Park
Calling all bird lovers — Lake Mburo is a feathery paradise you won’t want to miss! With its mix of wetlands, grasslands, and forests, this park is one of Uganda’s top spots for birdwatching. Over 350 bird species call it home, from everyday flyers to rare beauties that’ll make your binoculars fog up with excitement.
Keep your eyes (and ears) peeled for the iconic African Fish Eagle, the colorful Papyrus Gonolek, the secretive White-winged Warbler, and the quirky Bare-faced Go-away Bird — yes, that’s really its name! Don’t forget to look out for Uganda’s regal national bird, the Crowned Crane, and if you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of the elusive Shoebill Stork lurking in the papyrus swamps.
Whether you’re a seasoned birder or just winging it, Lake Mburo’s vibrant birdlife and peaceful surroundings make every birdwatching moment feel like a treasure hunt with wings.
Attractions in Queen Elizabeth National Park
Queen Elizabeth National Park is open year-round, but the dry seasons (June to September and December to February) are ideal for wildlife viewing, as animals are more active and vegetation is less dense.
The wet seasons (March to May and October to November) are great for birdwatching, but roads may be muddy and harder to navigate in the park
Safari game drives
Hop into a comfy 4×4 safari vehicle with open roofs and clear windows, perfect for wildlife viewing and snapping amazing photos. On your game drive, explore the Kasenyi Plains, famous for lions, elephants, and antelopes, and the Ishasha Sector, home to the rare tree-climbing lions.
Guided by park experts, you’ll learn about the animals and their ecosystem in this outdoor classroom. Don’t miss the scenic Mweya Peninsula with its stunning views over the Kazinga Channel. From buffalo herds to hippos and warthogs, every drive is packed with unforgettable moments!
Kazinga Channel Boat cruise Safari
Kazinga channel is a 32 km long feature in wildlife connecting Lake Edward to Lake George, and along its shores comes its unique blend of biodiversity. Embark on a captivating boat safari along the Kazinga Channel, offering unparalleled wildlife viewing opportunities. Glide past large pods of hippos, Nile crocodiles basking on the banks, and elephants, buffaloes, and waterbucks drinking at the water’s edge. Bird enthusiasts will delight in spotting over 60 species, including the African fish eagle, yellow-billed stork, and the elusive shoebill stork. Boat cruises are available daily in the morning and afternoon, with departures from the Mweya Peninsula. This boat cruise safari is an exhilarating experience for one to miss at the Queen Elizabeth National Park.
Chimpanzee Trekking
Chimpanzee trekking in Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda, offers a thrilling wildlife adventure in the heart of the Kyambura Gorge, also known as the “Valley of Apes.” This unique experience allows visitors to observe habituated chimpanzees in their natural habitat, accompanied by experienced guides. Chimpanzees are social by nature, and sightings of these mammals are 85% due to their loud vocals that are heard from a distance. The lush forest, dramatic landscapes, and diverse birdlife enhance the trek, making it a must-do for nature lovers and wildlife photographers. Ideal for eco-tourism, chimpanzee trekking in Queen Elizabeth National Park supports conservation and sustainable tourism while delivering unforgettable encounters with one of our closest primate relatives.
Lion Tracking
Lion tracking in Queen Elizabeth National Park is an exciting adventure for wildlife lovers, offering a rare chance to follow lions through the park’s stunning landscapes. Done in the early mornings or afternoons, this guided experience takes place in the Kasenyi and Ishasha sectors, where some lions are fitted with radio collars as part of conservation efforts.
Led by expert Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) rangers, you’ll not only spot these majestic cats — including the famous tree-climbing lions — but also learn about their behavior, habitat, and the challenges they face. Whether you’re on a game drive, walking safari, or a special lodge-arranged tracking tour, lion tracking is a must-do for anyone looking for an unforgettable and meaningful safari experience in Uganda.
The Hot air balloon safari
A hot air balloon safari in Queen Elizabeth National Park offers a breathtaking aerial view of Uganda’s diverse wildlife and landscapes. You are treated to an overhead panoramic view of the park’s true nature. Launching at sunrise, this unique safari adventure allows guests to float silently over the savannah, spotting elephants, lions, buffalo, and hippos from above. Operated by certified pilots, the experience includes a pre-flight briefing and a bush breakfast after landing. It’s a must-do activity for photographers and travelers seeking a magical, memorable, and serene perspective of one of Uganda’s most iconic national parks. The adventure is one to remember
Activities in Queen Elizabeth National Park
Queen Elizabeth National Park is not just about observing wildlife; it also offers a wide range of activities that allow visitors to explore the park in different ways
Bird Watching
With over 600 species of birds, Queen Elizabeth National Park is a bird watcher’s paradise. Birding enthusiasts can spot species like the African fish eagle, the white-tailed lark, and the papyrus gonolek. Birding is best done during the wet season when migratory birds arrive in the park.
. Nature walks and Bush walks
Nature walks and guided bush walks in Queen Elizabeth National Park offer an immersive way to explore Uganda’s diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes on foot. These thrilling walks are famously through the Mweya peninsula, the Ishasha plains, Maragambo forest, and the Kyambura gorge. Led by experienced Uganda Wildlife Authority rangers, these walks take visitors through scenic areas like Maramagambo Forest, Mweya Peninsula, and along the Ishasha River. These Nature walks and bush walks are a spot on for scenery to the likes of the rare white tailed lark on the shores of the Kazinga channel and the saddle-billed stork. You’ll encounter primates, birds, butterflies, and even spot larger animals like elephants and antelopes in their natural habitat. These eco-friendly safaris are perfect for nature lovers seeking a close-up, off-the-beaten-path experience in one of Uganda’s top national parks.
Tours in Queen Elizabeth National Park
Where To Stay
Mweya Safari Lodge
Located at the heart of the park, Mweya Safari Lodge is one of the most luxurious options in the park. It offers stunning views of the Kazinga Channel and the Rwenzori Mountains. The lodge features elegant rooms, a swimming pool, and fine dining options, making it ideal for those looking for a high-end experience.
Ishasha Wilderness Camp
For a more remote and intimate experience, Ishasha Wilderness Camp offers luxury tents in the southern Ishasha sector. The camp provides comfortable accommodation, great service, and easy access to the tree-climbing lions. Guests can enjoy an authentic wilderness experience here, with game drives, boat safaris, and cultural activities.
Kyambura Gorge Lodge
Nestled on the edge of the Kyambura Gorge, this lodge provides a serene escape with a spectacular view. The lodge offers comfortable accommodations and is known for its eco-friendly approach to hospitality. It’s an excellent base for chimpanzee trekking in the Kyambura Gorge.
Bush Lodge
For budget-conscious travelers or those looking for a more rustic experience, the park also has several campsites and budget-friendly bush lodges. These options allow visitors to immerse themselves in nature while enjoying the beauty of the park at a lower cost.