Queen Elizabeth National Park(QENP), located in the Western part of Uganda, is one of Africa’s most biodiverse destinations, sprawling across savannahs, forests, wetlands, and lakeshores. Covering nearly 2,000 square kilometers, it’s the second-largest national park in Uganda and hosts an extraordinary variety of wildlife, making it a prime safari destination.The park’s rich ecosystems attract a wide range of animals, including some of the most sought-after wildlife species over 95mammal species, 600 bird species, and countless other creatures on the continent.

From the famous tree-climbing lions to massive herds of elephants and playful chimpanzees, here are the top five animals you won’t want to miss in Queen Elizabeth National Park.

1. Tree-Climbing Lions
   Known for their unusual behavior of climbing trees, the lions in the Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park are a rare and remarkable sight. Unlike most lions, these Ishasha lions often lounge on the branches of fig trees, providing an unusual and photogenic spectacle. This behavior is thought to help the lions escape the heat and avoid insects on the ground. Seeing these majestic cats perched high above the ground is one of the park’s most iconic and unique experiences.
2. African Elephants
   African elephants roam freely across the park and can often be seen along the Kazinga Channel, a natural waterway connecting Lake Edward and Lake George. Known as the largest land mammals, elephants are a highlight for any visitor, and their presence adds grandeur to the park’s landscapes. Their large herds, typically including young calves, are often seen drinking, bathing, and socializing by the channel, offering incredible viewing and photography opportunities.
3. Leopards
   While leopards are elusive and mostly nocturnal, Queen Elizabeth National Park offers a relatively high chance of spotting them, especially on early morning or late evening game drives. These solitary and agile predators are frequently found near water sources or resting in trees during the day. Their striking, spotted coats and graceful movements make every sighting of a leopard a memorable one, and they are one of the park’s most thrilling residents to encounter.
4. Chimpanzees
   The park is also a haven for primate enthusiasts, with the Kyambura Gorge hosting a population of wild chimpanzees. A guided trek through this lush forest gorge allows visitors to see these intelligent primates in their natural habitat. Observing the social dynamics, communication, and playful behaviors of chimpanzees in the gorge offers an entirely different wildlife experience, adding diversity to a visit dominated by the larger African mammals.
5. Hippos
   The Kazinga Channel is teeming with hippos, one of the park’s most abundant and frequently sighted animals. Known for their territorial behavior in the water, hippos can be seen wallowing, swimming, and interacting with one another along the channel banks. Boat safaris on the channel provide a close-up view of these massive creatures, whose characteristic yawn and stinctive eyes just above the water are among the most classic African safari sights.
   

Queen Elizabeth National Park is a wildlife treasure, offering some of Africa’s most unique and unforgettable animal encounters. Whether you’re drawn to the unusual tree-climbing lions, the majesty of elephants, or the vibrant presence of chimpanzees, this Ugandan gem provides a quintessential African safari experience.

To book a safari in Queen Elizabeth National Park, simply get in touch with us at info@supremecarrentaluganda.com or call us now +256-742874045 / +256-703903243 to speak with our reservations team.