About

How to get there?

There are a few different ways to get to Queen Elizabeth National Park. You can fly into Entebbe International Airport, which is located about five hours away from the park by car. Or, you can fly into Kasese Airport, which is only about an hour away from the park.

There are also buses that go to the town of Kasese, which is located near the park. And finally, you can drive to the park yourself, if you have your own vehicle. The drive is about five hours from Kampala, the capital of Uganda.

About the weather

Queen Elizabeth National Park is located in a tropical savannah climate zone, which means that it's generally hot and humid throughout the year. The average temperature is around 80 degrees Fahrenheit, and the average rainfall is about 80 inches per year.

The driest months are from June to August, and the wettest months are from October to March. During the wet season, there can be heavy rains and thunderstorms, so you should be prepared with rain gear.

Medical matters that affect your visit.

Malaria

Malaria is a serious health risk in the park. You should take antimalarial medication and use insect repellent to protect yourself from mosquito bites.

Altitude Sickness

Altitude sickness can occur if you are not properly acclimated to the elevation of the park. Symptoms can include headache, nausea, and dizziness. You can prevent altitude sickness by taking it easy when you first arrive and staying hydrated.

Heat Illness

The hot and humid climate of the park can cause heat illness, such as heat exhaustion and heat stroke. It's important to stay hydrated and avoid overexertion.

Diarrhea

Diarrhea is common in the park, and it can be caused by contaminated food or water. You should only drink bottled water and be careful about what you eat.

Animal Bites

You should avoid contact with the wildlife in the park, as they can bite or scratch you and cause infection. If you are bitten or scratched, seek medical attention immediately.

Other Medical Issues

Other common health issues in the park include dehydration, blisters, and sunburn. Be sure to stay hydrated, wear appropriate footwear, and use sunscreen.

By being aware of these health risks and taking the necessary precautions, you can stay healthy and enjoy your visit to Queen Elizabeth National Park. And don't forget to seek medical attention if you experience any of the symptoms listed above.

About the locals

The people who live around Queen Elizabeth National Park are known as the "BaTwa". They are a small ethnic group who have lived in the area for centuries, and they have a fascinating culture and way of life. They are known for their pottery, basket-weaving, and woodworking skills, and they also have a deep respect for the natural world.

They live in harmony with the wildlife, and have a deep knowledge of the plants and animals that live in the park. The BaTwa have also faced many challenges, including displacement and discrimination. Despite these challenges, they have maintained their unique culture and way of life.

Cultural etiquettes at Queen Elizabeth National Park

There are a few cultural customs and traditions to be aware of when visiting Queen Elizabeth National Park. First, it is important to dress modestly, as Uganda is a conservative country. This means covering your shoulders, upper arms, and upper legs, and avoiding tight or revealing clothing.

Secondly, it is important to greet people with a handshake and to use the right hand only. Finally, it is considered rude to point with your finger, and instead you should use an open palm to gesture.

In addition to dress and greetings, there are a few other cultural etiquettes to keep in mind. For example, it is important to respect the local wildlife and the environment. This means not feeding the animals, making loud noises, or disturbing their habitats.

It is also important to avoid littering and to dispose of your trash properly. Additionally, it is considered impolite to haggle aggressively or to show anger or frustration. Instead, it is best to remain calm and respectful at all times.

Safety at Queen Elizabeth National Park

Safety is always a top priority when visiting Queen Elizabeth National Park. There are a few safety tips to keep in mind, such as always remaining with your guide and following their instructions. It is also important to be aware of your surroundings, especially when walking or driving through the park.

Make sure to stay on the designated paths and roads, and to keep a safe distance from the wildlife. It is also important to be aware of the dangers of malaria and other diseases, and to take the necessary precautions.

Language and communication at Queen Elizabeth National Park

The main languages spoken in Queen Elizabeth National Park are English, Luganda, and Swahili. However, the BaTwa have their own unique language, known as Ruki. They also have a rich oral tradition, and use storytelling to preserve their history and culture.

In addition to verbal communication, the BaTwa also use music and dance to express themselves. Their traditional music is known for its complex rhythms and rich harmonies. They also have a unique form of dance known as "Engagabu", which is performed in a circle with hand clapping and body movements.

The Park fees

The cost of the park's entry fee varies depending on your nationality. For Ugandan citizens, the fee is 5,000 UGX (Ugandan shillings) per person. For East African Community (EAC) citizens, the fee is 15,000 UGX per person. For non-EAC residents, the fee is $40 USD per person.

The fee is valid for 24 hours and must be paid in cash upon entry to the park. Children under the age of 5 years old are not required to pay the entry fee.

Vital information on money matters.

In terms of money matters, you should know that Queen Elizabeth National Park is mostly a cash-based economy. There are few ATMs in the area, so it's best to come prepared with enough cash for your trip. You can use your credit card at some of the luxury lodges, but most other places only accept cash.

Additionally, it's important to be aware of the exchange rate when converting your currency to Ugandan shillings. It's also best to avoid carrying a lot of cash at once, as pickpocketing is a risk in some areas.

And finally, be sure to get your cash from a reputable source, such as a bank or hotel. With these tips in mind, you can make sure your money is safe and secure during your trip.

Fun Things To Do At Queen Elizabeth National Park

There are so many fun things to do in Queen Elizabeth National Park! Here are a few of the most popular activities:

Gorilla Trekking

This is the top activity in the park, and it's an unforgettable experience. You can see these amazing creatures up close in their natural habitat.

Chimpanzee Trekking

Another popular activity is chimpanzee trekking. This is a chance to see chimpanzees in the wild and learn about their fascinating behavior.

Boat Safari

A boat safari on the Kazinga Channel is a great way to see wildlife, including hippos, crocodiles, and more

Game Drives

Game drives are a great way to see all of the amazing wildlife that the park has to offer. You can see lions, elephants, leopards, and more.

Bird Watching

The park is home to over 600 species of birds, making it a paradise for bird watchers. You can spot species like the African green broadbill, the shoebill stork, and the great blue turaco.

Hiking

There are several hiking trails in the park, including the famous Kasenyi trail. These trails offer stunning views of the park and its wildlife.

With all of these options there's no shortage of fun things to do in Queen Elizabeth National Park. And, of course, there's also plenty of time to relax and take in the beauty of the park. Whether you're looking for adventure or relaxation, the park has something for everyone.

Who can travel to Queen Elizabeth National Park?

Queen Elizabeth National Park is open to visitors from all over the world. However, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, visitors must have a valid passport and visa. Second, visitors must have a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate.

Third, visitors must have proof of medical insurance. Fourth, visitors must be accompanied by a registered guide or tour operator. Finally, visitors must pay the park entry fee. If you meet all of these requirements, you can enjoy all that the park has to offer!

Travel Documents

You will need a valid passport and visa to enter Uganda. Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months after your travel date and check if you need to obtain a visa before traveling.

What Time Of The Year Is Best To Visit?

The best time to visit Queen Elizabeth National Park is during the dry season, from June to September and from December to February. During these months, the weather is pleasant and the park is teeming with wildlife. The animals are easy to spot, as they tend to congregate around the water sources.

If you visit during the dry season, you're likely to see more animals than during the rainy season. However, the rainy season has its own charm, with lush green landscapes and plenty of birdlife. So, no matter when you visit, there's something special to see in the park.

Packing Essentials for your Trip

Here's what you'll need to pack for a trip to Queen Elizabeth National Park:

- Lightweight clothing, including long-sleeved shirts and pants to protect against the sun and insects.

- A hat and sunglasses to protect against the sun.

- Hiking boots or sturdy walking shoes.

- A raincoat or poncho, in case of rain.

- Binoculars for bird watching and wildlife viewing.

- A camera and extra batteries.

- A flashlight or headlamp, for use at night.

- A water bottle to stay hydrated.

- Snacks, as there are limited food options in the park.

- And of course, don't forget your travel documents, including your passport, visa.

- It's also a good idea to pack some first-aid supplies, just in case.

With all of these items packed, you'll be ready to experience all that Queen Elizabeth National Park has to offer. And don't forget to pack your sense of adventure - you're sure to have an unforgettable experience in the park.