Queen Elizabeth National Park

Kasenyi Plains

Also referred to as the Kasenyi Sector or sometimes Mweya, Kasenyi Plains are located in the northeastern part of Queen Elizabeth National Park. These plains offer endless views of savannah landscapes teeming with wildlife, making them a must-visit for safari enthusiasts. Neighboring the exceptional shores of Lake George and connecting to the famous Kazinga Channel, the plains are a hotspot for both wildlife and unique cultural experiences.

Things To Do in Kasenyi

The Kasenyi Plains are renowned for their large herds of Uganda kobs, which use the plains as a mating ground. This concentration of antelopes attracts predators, including lions and leopards, offering visitors excellent opportunities to witness dramatic predator-prey interactions. With an estimated population of about 200 lions, the plains are one of the best places in Uganda to spot these majestic big cats, as well as leopards and hyenas. Other wildlife commonly seen include elephants, buffaloes, warthogs, and waterbucks, often grazing across the open plains.

Bird enthusiasts will find the Kasenyi Plains a haven for birdwatching. The area boasts species such as the grey-crowned crane, red-throated spur fowl, and yellow-throated longclaw, among others. The proximity to Lake George’s papyrus swamps also allows visitors to spot unique species like the sitatunga antelope and a variety of wetland birds.

Other Attractions in Kasenyi

• Kazinga Channel: Located southwest of the plains, this waterway offers boat cruises that bring you up close to hippos, crocodiles, and elephants bathing along the shores. These cruises last about two hours and are a fantastic way to experience the park's aquatic life.
   
• Kasenyi Fishing Village: Visitors can engage with the vibrant culture of local fishermen, sample freshly caught fish, and learn about traditional fishing methods.
   
• Lake George and Crater Lakes: Lake George's papyrus swamps harbor unique wildlife, while crater lakes like Lake Bunyampaka add to the area's scenic beauty.
   
• Kasenyi Airport: This airstrip not only facilitates quick access to the park but also offers visitors a chance to spot wildlife like kobs, warthogs, and buffaloes as they roam nearby.
   
• Photography: The open grasslands and abundant wildlife of the Kasenyi Plains provide incredible opportunities for photography. Visitors can capture memorable moments, such as lions stalking their prey, kobs mating in the plains, or elephants grazing against the stunning backdrop of Lake George.

Ishasha sector

The Ishasha Sector is a remarkable and unique part of Queen Elizabeth National Park, located in the southwestern rim of the park in western Uganda. This area is renowned for its iconic tree-climbing lions. These lions can often be seen lounging in candelabra trees with broad branches that provide the perfect resting spot. While tree-climbing lions are also found in Lake Manyara National Park in Tanzania, Ishasha offers a more consistent opportunity to observe them due to their higher numbers and ease of tracking.

Research suggests that these lions climb trees for various reasons, including escaping the heat of the ground during the dry season, relaxing after hunts, and using the elevated vantage point to spy on prey such as Uganda kobs, which are abundant in the area. The interaction between the lions and the kobs creates an incredible spectacle for safari enthusiasts.

In addition to the famous lions, Ishasha is home to a wide array of wildlife. Visitors may encounter large herds of African elephants, whose ears resemble the shape of the African map, as well as numerous antelope species, including topis and Uganda kobs. Leopards and other big cats are also occasionally spotted, adding to the excitement of a safari here.

Mweya Peninsula

The Mweya Peninsula, located in the Rwenzururu sub-region of Kasese District, is a crown jewel of Queen Elizabeth National Park. Its central location and abundant attractions make it one of the park's most visited areas.

Mweya Peninsula's appeal stems from its excellent transport links via Mweya Airport, its quality accommodations, and its proximity to iconic features like the Kazinga Channel and Lake Edward. It’s often included in broader southwestern Uganda itineraries that combine activities like game drives, Kazinga Channel cruises, and gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest or chimpanzee tracking in Kibale Forest.

Things To Do in Mweya

1. Kazinga Channel Boat Cruises:
   The Kazinga Channel, a 32-kilometer stretch linking Lake Edward and Lake George, is home to one of the world’s largest concentrations of hippos, numerous Nile crocodiles, elephants, buffaloes, and over 100 species of water birds, including the African skimmer. Visitors can enjoy a two-hour boat cruise operated by either the Uganda Wildlife Authority or Mweya Safari Lodge, with options for luxury experiences on vessels like the Kingfisher.

2. Game Drives:
   Mweya Peninsula’s game trails offer classic savannah safari experiences. Early morning or late afternoon drives reveal elephants, buffaloes, warthogs, and a variety of antelope species. Nocturnal game drives provide opportunities to spot elusive predators like leopards and hyenas.

3. Mongoose Tracking:
   Join a team of researchers to track the banded mongoose, an agile mammal with complex social structures. This three-hour activity provides a rare chance to observe their behavior in their natural habitat.

Accommodation Options in Mweya

• Mweya Safari Lodge:
  This luxury lodge offers stunning views of the Kazinga Channel and the Rwenzori Mountains. Guests can enjoy amenities like an infinity pool, traditional dance performances, and Saturday evening barbecues.
   
• Mweya Hostel:
  A budget-friendly option with eco-conscious dormitory-style accommodations. It’s perfect for travelers seeking proximity to the Kazinga Channel and affordable meals from the onsite canteen.

Chimpanzee Tracking in Kyambura Gorge

One of the most unique experiences in Queen Elizabeth National Park is chimpanzee tracking in Kyambura Gorge, also known as the "Valley of Apes." Situated on the park’s eastern edge, this gorge offers an unforgettable chance to watch chimpanzees in their natural habitat. If you're looking for more chimpanzee trekking, nearby Kalinzu Forest and Maramagambo Forest also provide excellent opportunities to see these fascinating primates.

Parks Near Queen Elizabeth National Park

Queen Elizabeth National Park is a perfect stop on a broader Ugandan safari. If you're planning to trek gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, the two parks are close enough to combine both experiences in one trip. Queen Elizabeth is also situated near Kibale Forest National Park, another must-visit destination for those interested in chimpanzee trekking.

Best Time to Visit

While Queen Elizabeth National Park is beautiful year-round, the best time to visit is during the dry months of June to September and December to January. These months make it easier to spot wildlife, as animals tend to congregate around water sources. Additionally, the park’s roads are more accessible during these months, making it easier to navigate and enjoy your adventure.