Lion Tracking Experience in Queen Elizabeth National Park

Lion Tracking Experience in Queen Elizabeth National Park: A Unique Safari Adventure

If you’re passionate about wildlife and want to experience the thrill of tracking lions in their natural habitat, the Lion Tracking Experience at Queen Elizabeth National Park is an unforgettable adventure. As one of Africa’s most iconic predators, lions are a highlight of any safari. This exciting experience offers you the chance to follow a group or individual lions, learning about their behavior, feeding habits, and social dynamics.

What to Expect from the Lion Tracking Experience

The Lion Tracking Experience in Queen Elizabeth National Park takes place either in the early morning or late afternoon, offering you two distinct opportunities to see these magnificent creatures in action. During the two to three-hour tracking session, you’ll venture off the usual safari tracks, led by an expert park guide or researcher. This intimate experience allows you to observe the lions up close in the wild, adding a deeper layer to your understanding of their natural behaviors.

To participate, you’ll need to book in advance. The cost for international tourists is $100 per person, while foreign residents pay $80, and East African citizens are charged 100,000 Uganda shillings. Payment can be made at the Mweya Information Centre.

About Queen Elizabeth National Park

Located in the western part of Uganda, Queen Elizabeth National Park stretches across the Great Rift Valley’s western arm and is home to a diverse range of wildlife. The park boasts savannah and riverine habitats, offering a stunning mix of ecosystems. From the tree-climbing lions of Ishasha to the vibrant crater lakes of the northern Mweya area, Queen Elizabeth is a top destination for wildlife lovers.

The park is home to lions, elephants, hippos, buffaloes, Uganda kobs, baboons, and hundreds of bird species. Its southern Ishasha area is known for its tree-climbing lions, while the Kazinga Channel offers some of the best boat safaris in Africa.

Other Activities to Enjoy in Queen Elizabeth National Park

Beyond lion tracking, Queen Elizabeth National Park offers a range of exciting activities that cater to all types of safari enthusiasts. Here are some of the top things to do during your visit:

Game Drives

A quintessential safari experience, game drives in Queen Elizabeth National Park give you the chance to spot lions, leopards, elephants, buffaloes, antelopes, and more. You can enjoy both morning and afternoon game drives across the park’s designated tracks, particularly in Kasenyi, Ishasha, and the Kazinga plains. The slow-paced drives allow for exceptional wildlife sightings, and your experienced guide will help spot even the most elusive animals.

Boat Cruise on Kazinga Channel

For a unique perspective of the park’s wildlife, take a boat cruise along the Kazinga Channel, which connects Lake George and Lake Edward. The cruise offers sightings of elephants, buffaloes, and hippos, as well as crocodiles basking on the shore. The channel’s shores are also home to a variety of bird species, making it a haven for bird watchers. The boat cruise costs $30 per person for a public cruise, or you can opt for a private boat for a more intimate experience.

Chimpanzee Tracking in Kyambura Gorge

Queen Elizabeth is not just about lions; it’s also home to chimpanzees. The Kyambura Gorge within the park offers fantastic chimpanzee tracking opportunities, where you can spend time with these fascinating primates. The chimpanzee trekking permits are $50 per person per trek, a more affordable option compared to other chimpanzee trekking destinations in Uganda.

Birding in Queen Elizabeth National Park

With over 600 bird species, Queen Elizabeth National Park is a paradise for bird enthusiasts. Some of the best birding spots include Maramagambo Forest, Kyambura Gorge, Mweya Peninsula, and along the Kazinga Channel. You might spot birds like the African Jacana, Yellow-backed Weaver, Purple-headed Starling, and the Pied Kingfisher, among others. Whether you’re a seasoned birder or a casual observer, Queen Elizabeth provides excellent opportunities for bird watching.

Cultural Encounters and Community Visits

Experience the rich cultural heritage of Queen Elizabeth National Park by visiting the local communities surrounding the park. Lake Katwe Mines offers a unique opportunity to see how locals extract salt from the lake, and you can learn about the symbiotic relationship between the park and its people. The Kasoga community experience is another way to engage with the local culture, where you’ll learn about life near the park and witness traditional dances and crafts. Support the local artisans by purchasing handmade souvenirs.

Nature and Forest Walks in Queen Elizabeth National Park

If you’re looking to connect with nature and explore the beauty of Queen Elizabeth National Park on foot, the park offers guided nature and forest walks that provide an unforgettable experience. Accompanied by an experienced ranger guide for safety, these walks allow you to enjoy the serene surroundings while learning about the park’s diverse ecosystems.

Nature walks are typically conducted around the Mweya Peninsula, where you can enjoy stunning views of the Kazinga Channel and Lake Edward. As you stroll through this scenic area, keep an eye out for wildlife, including elephants, mongoose, antelopes, and even giant forest hogs and bush pigs. You’ll also have the chance to walk along the Ishasha River, offering a unique opportunity to observe hippos up close.

Other popular spots for forest walks include Maramagambo Forest, Kyambura Gorge, and Kalinzu Forest. These areas are perfect for bird watchers, primate enthusiasts, and nature lovers alike. Expect to see a variety of bird species, bats in caves, and other wildlife, such as antelope, giant forest hogs, and elephants. The combination of pristine landscapes and abundant wildlife makes these forest walks a must-do activity during your safari.

Accommodation Options During Your Lion Tracking Safari

Queen Elizabeth National Park offers a wide range of accommodation choices to suit various budgets, from luxury lodges to more affordable options. Your choice of lodging can enhance your safari experience, providing comfort after a day of exciting activities like lion tracking.

For luxury stays, consider options like Ishasha Wilderness Camp in the Ishasha sector, known for its stunning views and close proximity to wildlife. In the Mweya sector, you’ll find Kyambura Gorge Lodge, Katara Lodge, and Mweya Safari Lodge, which offer exceptional service and picturesque views of the surrounding landscapes. If you’re looking for a mid-range or budget option, consider Ishasha Jungle Safari Lodge, Buffalo Safari Lodge, Twin Lakes Lodge, or Park View Lodge.

Accommodation prices range from $80 to $700 per person per night, with some lodges offering discounts for extended stays of two nights or more. No matter your budget, you’re guaranteed quality service and an unforgettable stay in Queen Elizabeth National Park.

How to Get to Queen Elizabeth National Park

Getting to Queen Elizabeth National Park is easy, with several travel options to suit your preferences and schedule.

For the quickest and most convenient travel, flights are available from Entebbe International Airport or Kajjansi to Kasese Airstrip or Kihihi Airstrip. The flight takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, and the short drive from the airstrips to the park is a quick and scenic journey. Flight fees are affordable, making this a popular option for many travelers.

Alternatively, you can opt for a road trip from Entebbe or Kampala, which takes around 5 hours. Although the drive may seem long, it offers a scenic route with plenty of opportunities to stop and enjoy the local culture and landscapes. We provide 4×4 vehicles for transportation, ensuring a comfortable and safe journey, especially given the state of the roads in the park.

Why Book Your Lion Tracking Experience with Trek Africa Expeditions

At Trek Africa Expeditions, we craft personalized and authentic safari experiences. Whether you’re planning to explore Queen Elizabeth National Park or other destinations in Uganda and the East African region, we offer tailor-made safari packages to suit your interests and budget.

We pride ourselves on providing memorable safari experiences, thanks to our dedicated team of energetic, passionate staff. Our team is guided by experienced managers and directors, all of whom are committed to ensuring you have the best possible experience during your time in Uganda. We are highly rated on TripAdvisor and SafariBookings, where past travelers share their positive experiences with us.

Book your Lion Tracking Experience in Queen Elizabeth National Park with Trek Africa Expeditions for a safari adventure you’ll never forget. Contact us today to learn more about our discounted packages and expert-guided safaris.