Queen Elizabeth

Queen Elizabeth National Park

Queen Elizabeth is one of Uganda’s best-known national parks, and with good reason. It has everything: from open savannah and lush rainforest to dense swamps and the shores of Lake Edward. With so many different landscapes, there’s something here for every traveller to enjoy.

1. Things to do
2. To: Kibale
3. To: Lake Mburo
4. To: Ishasha
5. To: Lake Mutanda / Bwindi
6. To: Rukungiri

• Game drives
  Head out early in the morning or late afternoon for game drives around Mweya and the Northern Circuit. The tracks here are clearly marked, but you can also take a UWA ranger with you to help spot animals and share more about the wildlife. No need to book in advance: you can arrange it at the park gate. The cost is around USD 25 for half a day, excluding tips.
• Boat safari on the Kazinga Channel
  A boat trip on the Kazinga Channel is one of the highlights of the park. Expect to see plenty of elephants, buffalo, hippos, crocodiles and birds.
• Relax at Mweya Lodge
  Take a break on the terrace of Mweya Lodge, which offers a fantastic view over the Kazinga Channel.
• Hike through Kyambura Gorge
  This steep gorge lies in the far east of the park and feels like entering a different world. It’s a beautiful walk, even if you don’t spot the chimps (sightings are about 50/50). Permits cost USD 100 and must be arranged in advance. The UWA only issues permits to tour operators, so make sure to contact our team at Roadtrip Africa for assistance.
• Visit Lake Bunyampaka
  This salt lake is known for its traditional salt mining. If you visit between October and April, you might see flamingoes. There are also a few craft stalls around the lake viewpoint.

Approx. 3 hours | 153 km

You can either start your day with a final game drive in Queen Elizabeth or head straight to Kibale Forest. Another option is to take a break in Fort Portal town. It’s a pleasant place to stretch your legs, grab a coffee, and explore.

Suggested stops:

• Visit the Dutchess Hotel to sample some local cheeses made from their own dairy herd.
• Drive the crater lake loop between Fort Portal and Kibale — the views are stunning.

Important!
When using Google Maps, first set your destination to Fort Portal. If you go straight to your lodge in Kibale, Google might send you on a shortcut that’s not recommended. Stick to the main road via Fort Portal instead.

Approx. 4 hours | 170 km

This is a scenic drive with rolling hills and tea plantations lining the way. The entire route is on well-maintained tarmac, making for a smooth journey.

Suggested stops:

• Kyansama viewpoint – Search on Google Maps for a breathtaking view over Queen Elizabeth National Park.
• Kyambura Gorge – Take a detour for panoramic views or book a guided hike. With some luck, you might spot habituated chimps. Make sure to book the hike in advance.
• Mbarara – Stop here to refuel or grab a bite at the popular Rolex Booth.

Approx. 2 hours | 74 km

After an early morning game drive or a relaxed breakfast, it’s time to head south to Ishasha.

Drive with care
The road is a mix of murram and dirt and can get very bumpy with uneven ribbed surfaces. Keep your speed low (max 25 km/h). This is where most accidents and vehicle damage happen — take it slow and steady.

Before you go
Make sure to refuel at the Shell station in Queen Elizabeth before continuing to Ishasha. There are no petrol stations in Ishasha.

Approx. 7 hours | 300 km

Plan for a full day on the road today.

Route overview
Take the asphalt road from Queen Elizabeth through Ntungamo and Kabale to Kisoro. Important: Google Maps might suggest a shortcut from Muko to Bwindi or Mutanda. Ignore this. It’s slower and rougher. Instead, continue to Kisoro first, then plot your final destination.

From Kisoro, it’s a beautiful drive on an adventurous dirt road through the Kigezi Highlands to reach Lake Mutanda or Rushaga.

Suggested stops

• Ishaka: Refuel your car
• Kabale: Lunch at The Gathering Place or Safari Diners Choma Restaurant
• Kisoro: Final fuel stop before entering the Bwindi area

Approx. 3 hours | 130 km

Drive via Ishaka town, which is also your last fuel stop before going to Rukungiri. There is a fuel station in Rukungiri, but because it is a very small town, don’t rely on it. 

Suggested stops:

• Search Kyansama Viewpoint on Google Maps for a beautiful view over the park.