The Kazinga Channel
A natural channel about 32 km long that joins Lake George to Lake Edward. A boat trip along it puts you at eye level with hippos, buffalo and elephants that come down to drink, and with the water birds that crowd its banks.
From Hotel Premier
Elephants, hippos, buffalo and the Kazinga Channel boat cruise. Close enough to leave after breakfast and be back for dinner.
Queen Elizabeth National Park is Uganda's most visited savannah park, and the closest of the big parks to Bushenyi. It sits on the equator between Lake George and Lake Edward, on the floor of the Albertine Rift, with the Rwenzori mountains on the horizon to the north.
It began as the Kazinga National Park in 1952 and was renamed in 1954 after a visit by Queen Elizabeth II. Its mix of open plains, crater lakes, wetland and forest is why it holds so many different animals in one place, and why UNESCO recognised it as a biosphere reserve.
What you will see
Inside Queen Elizabeth National Park
Game drives on the Kasenyi plains
Open grassland where Uganda kob gather, which is why this is the part of the park where lions are most often seen, especially in the early morning.
Ishasha and the tree-climbing lions
The southern sector of the park is known for lions that rest in fig trees. It lies far to the south, so it suits a longer stay than a day trip from Bushenyi.
Maramagambo Forest
A large forest on the park's southern edge with walking trails, bat caves and forest birds. A quiet contrast to the savannah.
In pictures
Queen Elizabeth National Park, up close
When to go
Wildlife is good all year. The two dry seasons, roughly December to February and June to August, make the roads easier and the animals easier to find around water.
Before you go
- Start early. The animals are most active at dawn and in the late afternoon.
- Bring binoculars, a hat, water and a light layer. It is hot on the plains and cool on the water.
- Park entry and the boat cruise are booked and paid separately from your room. Ask our front desk who they recommend.
Stay close
Make Premier your base for Queen Elizabeth National Park
Our 24-hour front desk can help you plan the day, and ask a good local guide on your behalf.