Top 10 Wildlife Species in Queen Elizabeth National Park to Spot During a Game Drive

During a game drives visitors will spot various Wildlife Species in Queen Elizabeth National Park a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the western part of Uganda. Covering about 1,978 square kilometers, the park is spread across the districts of Rubirizi, Rukungiri, Kamwenge and Kasese. It boasts a range of ecosystems including savannah grasslands, forests, wetlands and lakes which provide a home for various animal species. These habitats are ideal for wildlife viewing, especially during game drives which are scheduled for the morning from 6:30 am to around 10 or 11 am, and in the evening from 5 pm to 7 or 7:30 pm (East African Time). Game drives in Queen Elizabeth National Park can be conducted in different sectors such as the Kasenyi Plains, Mweya Peninsula and the Ishasha sector in the south.

Below are the top 10 Wildlife Species in Queen Elizabeth you’re likely to encounter during these drives:

Lions

Lions are one of the most iconic species in Queen Elizabeth National Park, and they are among the famous “Big Five.” With around 130 lions in the park they are a common sight especially in the early morning. Of particular interest are the tree-climbing lions found in the Ishasha sector. These lions unique to this region, can be seen lounging in the branches of large fig trees offering a spectacular sight. The best time to spot lions is during the morning game drive before they retreat into the wilderness.

African Elephants

African elephants are another member of the Big Five and are frequently seen in Queen Elizabeth National Park. Elephants are known for their tight social bonds, living in herds led by a matriarch. They can consume up to 300 kilograms of food per day and have a gestation period of about two years. Elephants are usually spotted in large herds, roaming the savannah and near water sources, making them a highlight of any game drive.

African Buffalo

Buffaloes, another of the Big Five, are commonly seen in Queen Elizabeth National Park. These large bovines are social animals, often found in large herds on the savannah and smaller groups in forested areas. Buffaloes are known for their unique mud baths which help regulate their body temperature and protect them from parasites. They are powerful animals and are a must-see during any game drive.

Spotted Hyenas

Spotted hyenas, also known as laughing hyenas, are skilled hunters and scavengers. Their characteristic “laughing” sound is actually a form of communication, often signaling a source of food to other hyenas. These animals are nocturnal but can also be seen during early morning or late evening game drives. Their intelligence and social structure make them fascinating creatures to observe.

Antelopes (Kobs,Topi, Bushbucks and Waterbucks)

Several species of antelopes can be spotted in the park, including topi, bushbucks, and waterbucks. These graceful animals are typically found in grassy plains and woodlands, where they graze on vegetation. Topi are recognized by their reddish-brown coats, while waterbucks are known for their distinctive white markings around their neck, nose and ears. Antelopes are prey for many of the park’s predators, making their sightings quite common.

Leopards

Leopards are elusive and solitary creatures, but Queen Elizabeth National Park is one of the best places to spot them. These shy animals are nocturnal and are usually spotted during evening game drives. Leopards are skilled climbers and often drag their prey into trees to keep it away from scavengers like hyenas. They are difficult to spot but incredibly rewarding to see due to their stealth and beauty.

Warthogs

Warthogs, a wild member of the pig family, are commonly seen throughout the park. These animals are easily recognized by their flat heads, covered in characteristic “warts.” Warthogs are not aggressive and usually pose no threat to humans, making them a fun and interesting species to observe. They are often seen grazing on the savannah or scurrying back to their burrows for safety.

Nile Crocodiles

The Nile crocodile, Africa’s largest water predator, is commonly found in the waters of Queen Elizabeth National Park especially along the Kazinga Channel. These crocodiles are formidable predators and can grow to massive sizes, with males reaching lengths of up to 6 meters. They are known to bask along the riverbanks and can be seen during boat cruises on the channel or near other water bodies in the park.

Hippopotamus

Hippos are abundant in the water bodies of Queen Elizabeth National Park, especially in the Kazinga Channel, Lake George, Lake Edward and various rivers. These large herbivores are often seen lounging in the water during the day and come out to graze at night. Hippos are fascinating animals known for their territorial behavior in water and their massive size with males weighing up to 1,500 kilograms.

Chimpanzees

While Queen Elizabeth National Park is famous for its large mammals, it also offers an opportunity to see primates, including chimpanzees. These intelligent animals are mainly tracked in the Kyambura Gorge also known as the Valley of Apes. Chimpanzees are our closest relatives sharing up to 99% of our DNA. Observing them in their natural habitat is a special experience as you get to see their complex social behaviors and communication skills.

Best Time for a Game Drive

Game drives in Queen Elizabeth National Park can be done throughout the year, but the best time is during the dry season (June to September and December to February). During this period the roads are easier to navigate, and animals are more concentrated around water sources making for excellent wildlife viewing. The wet season on the other hand can make some of the park’s roads impassable due to mud.

Getting to Queen Elizabeth National Park

The park is located about 5 to 6 hours by road from Kampala, passing through beautiful landscapes and scenic towns. Alternatively, visitors can fly from Entebbe International Airport or Kajjansi Airfield with domestic airlines like Aerolink Uganda or Bar Aviation. Flights land at either Mweya or Kasese airstrip and from there, you can easily reach the park’s headquarters by road.

Whether you’re spotting the elusive tree-climbing lions, watching elephants graze, or observing a herd of buffaloes, the Wildlife Species in Queen Elizabeth provides an unforgettable safari experience.