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April 29, 2025Queen Elizabeth National Park (QENP) is Uganda’s premier safari destination, renowned for its diverse ecosystems, abundant wildlife—including the famous tree-climbing lions—and breathtaking landscapes. Whether you’re seeking luxury, mid-range comfort, or budget-friendly options, the park offers a variety of lodges to suit every traveler. Here’s a curated selection of some of the top lodges in and around QENP, each providing a unique experience.
Where to stay in Queen Elizabeth National park
Numerous lodges within Queen Elizabeth National Park offer exceptional activities to help you explore the park’s natural wonders. These activities range from game drives in the Mweya Peninsula and the Kasenyi plains to boat cruise safaris along the Kazinga Channel. Don’t miss out on unique experiences like lion tracking, mongoose tracking, chimpanzee tracking in Kyambura Gorge, and the chance to see the renowned tree-climbing lions.
Keep in mind that the enjoyment of these safari activities is heightened by the comfort of your lodge. Today, we’ll guide you through the best quality lodges nestled within Queen Elizabeth National Park, ensuring a truly remarkable wildlife experience in Uganda.
Luxury Lodges
Mweya Safari Lodge
Situated on the Mweya Peninsula, this lodge offers panoramic views of the Kazinga Channel and the Rwenzori Mountains. Guests can enjoy spacious rooms, a swimming pool, and a variety of dining options. Activities include game drives, boat cruises, and chimpanzee tracking in the nearby Kyambura Gorge.
Kyambura Gorge Lodge
Housed in a converted coffee processing plant, this eco-lodge offers a unique blend of history and nature. Located on the edge of the Kyambura Gorge, it provides stunning views and opportunities for chimpanzee tracking, guided walks, and birdwatching.
Ishasha Wilderness Camp
Located in the remote southern sector of the park, Ishasha Wilderness Camp offers luxury tented accommodation with en-suite bathrooms. It’s an ideal spot for viewing the famous tree-climbing lions and enjoying the serene wilderness.
Jacana Safari Lodge 
Nestled on the edge of a crater lake, Jacana Safari Lodge is a luxury retreat crafted from natural materials to blend harmoniously with its lush surroundings. With ten elegant chalets and two spacious family cottages, the lodge offers ensuite bathrooms, modern comforts, and a serene atmosphere.
Guests can relax in the cozy Virunga lounge, enjoy a swim, unwind in the sauna, or sip drinks at the scenic Tembo bar. The on-site restaurant serves delicious local and international dishes, and complimentary Wi-Fi keeps you connected.
Kasenyi Safari Camp
Perched by Bunyampaka Lake in the scenic Gisenyi plains, Kasenyi Safari Camp offers an elegant safari experience in Queen Elizabeth National Park. The camp features thatched-roof structures, en-suite rooms with private terraces, mosquito-netted beds, and spacious interiors.
An elevated dining area offers panoramic views of the plains, where guests can spot wildlife like lions, buffaloes, elephants, and hippos. With excellent cuisine, Wi-Fi access, and top-tier hospitality, Kasenyi Safari Camp combines comfort with unforgettable wilderness encounters.
Katara Lodge
Katara lodge in Queen Elizabeth national park
Located on the Great Rift Valley escarpment just 20 minutes from Queen Elizabeth National Park, Katara Lodge offers sweeping views of Lake Edward, the savannah, and the distant Virunga and Rwenzori mountains. The lodge features seven luxurious thatched cottages and one family cottage, all blending wooden floors, canvas walls, and grass roofs for an eco-friendly yet elegant design.
Each cottage includes a spacious bedroom and sitting area, a double bed, and a unique four-poster star bed that can be rolled onto the veranda for a magical night under the stars. Bathrooms feature roll-top tubs and rain showers, with solar-heated water for added comfort.
Mid-Range Lodges
Enganzi Game Lodge
Set on a scenic escarpment overlooking the northeastern edge of Queen Elizabeth National Park, Enganzi Lodge offers stunning views and peaceful seclusion. The spacious, well-furnished cottages feature large beds, bathtubs, flush toilets, and wide windows to take in the panoramic landscape.
Built with natural materials like banana-leaf roofs for cool interiors, each cottage includes a private deck accessed through French doors, plus thoughtful touches like bottled water, charging outlets, and umbrellas. This serene retreat is a hidden gem for any Uganda safari.
Ihamba Safari Lodge
Set on the shores of Lake George with views of the Rwenzori Mountains, Ihamba Safari Lodge blends stone and thatch architecture with lush surroundings. The lodge features 10 spacious, air-conditioned suites with modern bathrooms, offering a comfortable and luxurious stay.
Guests can enjoy a swimming pool, well-stocked bar, lounge, and multiple dining options—including in-room, outdoor, or main dining. Additional amenities include internet, conference facilities, and scenic views from all directions, making it an ideal blend of relaxation and elegance.
Budget-Friendly Lodges
Bush Lodge
Located in the Kyambura sector, Bush Lodge offers a range of accommodations, including bandas and safari tents. The lodge is known for its intimate setting and close proximity to wildlife, providing a rustic yet comfortable experience.
Pumba Safari Cottages
Situated in the eastern part of the park, Pumba Safari Cottages offers cozy cottages with solar-heated showers and a restaurant. It’s a great option for travelers seeking comfort on a budget.
Simba Safari Camp
Located atop a hill overlooking Lake Kikorongo, Simba Safari Camp offers panoramic views of the savannah. It’s one of the closest accommodations to the park’s Kasenyi Plains, known for excellent game viewing opportunities.
Rift Valley Game Lodge
Offering spectacular views of the Rift Valley, this lodge provides a luxurious setting with spacious cottages, a restaurant, and bar. It’s a convenient base for exploring the park’s diverse ecosystems.
Queen Elizabeth National Park offers a variety of lodging options to suit every traveler. Whether you’re seeking luxury, comfort, or adventure, the park’s lodges provide a gateway to unforgettable wildlife experiences.
