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1-Day Queen Elizabeth National Park Itinerary

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Wanderlog staff
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• updatedAug 20, 2025

Queen Elizabeth National Park in 1 day

If you only have 1 day to spend in Queen Elizabeth National Park, we’ve narrowed down the top places you should check out to get the best experience of your time here.
Queen Elizabeth National Park is one of Uganda’s most famous wildlife reserves, known for its tree-climbing lions, large hippo and buffalo populations, and excellent birdwatching with hundreds of recorded species. The park’s landscapes range from open savanna and crater lakes to the Kazinga Channel, where boat trips offer close-up views of elephants and other animals at the water’s edge. Visitors can also take game drives, explore volcanic crater drives with sweeping views, and visit nearby communities for cultural experiences. Its location between the Rwenzori Mountains and Lake Edward makes it a scenic base for broader exploration of western Uganda.
With favorites like Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, Ishasha Jungle Lodge, and Enganzi Game Lodge Limited, we’ll make sure you don’t miss out on all the must sees.0 To see our full list of food recommendations, check out our best restaurants post. If you're traveling on a budget, you can check out our cheap eats post.
Looking for other day-by-day itineraries in Queen Elizabeth National Park?
  • 2-Day Queen Elizabeth National Park Itinerary
  • 3-Day Queen Elizabeth National Park Itinerary
  • 4-Day Queen Elizabeth National Park Itinerary
  • 5-Day Queen Elizabeth National Park Itinerary
Visiting Queen Elizabeth National Park? See our Queen Elizabeth National Park Trip Planner.
Feel free to follow our itinerary exactly or tailor it to your own needs — happy wandering!
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Table of contents
  • Queen Elizabeth National Park in 1 day
  • 1-day itinerary

Day 1

1-day itinerary
With only 1 day to squeeze in as much activities as you can, we strategically grouped the must-sees, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park and Ishasha Jungle Lodge with surrounding point of interests to make sure you don’t leave Queen Elizabeth National Park without getting the most bang for your time. Combining the average time spent at each location and traveling time in between, it should fill up about 9 hours of your day.
1

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park

4.7
(1125)
•
5.0
(748)
National park
Nature & Parks
Park
Nature & Wildlife Areas
Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park is a mountainous, densely forested park in Uganda, renowned for its rare mountain gorilla sightings. Accessible by road or air, it offers diverse experiences such as tracking mountain gorillas and spotting tree-climbing lions in Queen Elizabeth National Park. The park's lush landscape features forest-covered mountains and vibrant birdlife, making it an incredible destination for nature enthusiasts.
Obviously the home for trekking mountain gorilla. an amazing experience in itself. Guides/gards/locals and staff in the lodges have all been super friendly and a pleasure to spend time with.
Martin B — Google review
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is in the far south-west corner of Uganda, in the Rwenzori Mountains on the border of DRC (Democratic Republic of Congo) and Rwanda. The reason we were there was to trek and search for Mountain Gorillas. Gorilla trekking became a major source of income for local people, and in 1993 the park was added to the World Heritage List for its biological values - it supports many mammal species, birds and butterflies. The standard gorilla trekking permit fee for Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in Uganda is US$800 for foreign non-residents as of July 2024. This permit allows for one hour with the mountain gorillas. For foreign residents, the fee is US$700, and for East African citizens, it's around US$80 (or UGX 300,000). There are less than 1,000 of these Mountain Gorillas left, in two populations. One is in Bwindi, the other is in the nearby Virunga Mountains of Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Trekking in the park is strenuous and exhausting, especially after a rain, because of the slippery muddy terrain.
Doug H — Google review
One of the most amazing experiences of my life to observe a gorilla family in close quarters. A great team effort in conservation while allowing some human access with purpose of uplifting the community and presenting nature. The guides, the forest department and the local community have done a great job here. The hike to get to the gorillas was great, be mindful of the wet conditions of the rainforest so dress for mud, slips and not too fancy clothing. Be respectful of nature and the trackers. Everyone expects a tip so be mindful of that if you are a tourist.
Akash N — Google review
The most amazing experience of my life. So mind blowing was it, seeing the gorillas in their natural environment. Eating, resting, talking, moving and playing. Approaching no more than 10mtrs, they came so close we could touch them, although you're not allowed. We were lucky enough to spend one hour with then, we saw not one but two, (extremely rare) families in the same vicinity. 2 silver backs, with their family's, and their babies as they move through the jungle. Stubble life changing and magnificent! Thank you Intrepid Travel, staff and the Uganda people for the most memorable experience!
Deserae W — Google review
One of the most amazing things I have ever done. The track through the forest wasn't that long - more or less 15min before we met the first "tracking" rangers and another 10min before we saw the oldest group member. From there we went deeper into the forest to encounter the whole group and at some point we were in the middle of them - enjoying the moment of being with them in their natural enviroment and leaving memories that will last. It is expensive but worth every penny. If you have the chance, go for it!
Markus K — Google review
Amazing experience! We met the Gorillas personally and up really close. The tour was great, but be aware: it starts already at 2000 meter above sea level and depending on where the monkeys are you may need to treck 1-3h up and down through the uneven jungle (with rain). However, its sooo worth it!!!
Michael S — Google review
If you are looking for a place to dive into nature. It’s truly an impenetrable national forest. Very virgin!! You have an encounter one on one with the gorillas. Prepare your hike boots, gloves rain jackets and any water proof just in case the forest blesses you with some showered .
Faith B — Google review
An amazing forest where you can see gorillas, other primates, chameleons, and if you are lucky even mountain elephants. The trail to the swamp is perfect for birdwatching, but avoid going there if you don't like sweating. The hill you have to climb on the way back is pretty steep. As in any other forest, you need insect repellent and long clothes.
Laura G — Google review
Buhoma, Uganda•https://bwindiugandagorillatrekking.com/•+256 751 285659•Tips and more reviews for Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park
1 hr 9 min · 29.4 mi
2

Ishasha Jungle Lodge

4.5
(95)
Lodge
Ishasha Jungle Lodge offers a rustic and beautiful experience in the heart of nature. The spacious and well-decorated tents provide comfort and privacy, with en-suite bathrooms for convenience. Guests can enjoy delicious meals in a communal dining area while being surrounded by the peaceful atmosphere of the river and forest. The lodge's ecological consciousness adds to its charm, providing a tranquil setting for an unforgettable stay.
Only had one night here but absolutely loved it and wished it was a longer stay. I loved how ecologically conscious the lodge is. So peaceful with super service and fantastic food. One teeny tiny suggestion that I experienced at my next lodge - with the turn down service, include a hot water bottle for the bed ! Especially for the cooler nights. Simple but really appreciated. But still loved it so much !
Amanda — Google review
Beautiful landscape around the lodges and beautiful design of the rooms and the main area. It was nice hearing animal sounds at night (there were a bunch of hyenas chasing something). It felt close to nature. You can also see elephants by the river in the morning. Food was okay. Good location, but the road is rough to get there. There were weird vibes from the staff. They were very serious and made us feel uneasy. The main waiter had a bad attitude and was quite passive aggressive in his communication. The whole experience of staying there felt like being in a stepford wives movie. I was anxious and wanted to get out of there as soon as possible. They were really pushy about selling you extra services or merchandise. Lots of bugs in the room, lots of bugs on top of the net over the bed.
Kaltra F — Google review
If the location of this hotel shows up in a city, it is incorrect. This lodge under a forest canopy, nearby a flowing river. Monkeys are plentiful and was woken up by trumpeting elephants which have the experience of staying here very interesting. The walk to the river was very soothing. This lodge is close to the Ishasha Tree climbing Lions, but unfortunately, I didn't end up seeing any.
Nik W — Google review
Really nice and relaxing place to stay. Nice walk around on the grounds and very attentive staff
R L — Google review
We really liked our stay in this lodge. The staff was very hospitable. They prepared us a romantic dinner outside, with candles and stuff. We also payed for the sundown picnic, which was lovely.
Mireya V — Google review
Ishasha Jungle Lodge is a beautiful place, quite and surrounded by nature. Lodges are distant from each other so that you can enjoy your own privacy. They are spacious, clean, nicely decorated and so close to the main entrance's park. It even has an italian bide' in the room! Good food and excellent customer service! I regret I did not have more days available to stay and to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere by the river with the beauty of animals' life and forest set close by.
Elisa P — Google review
A good lodge located on the southern sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park and very accessible with beautiful cottages. A walk to view the Ishasha river is a bonus while staying here. Sometimes the staff organize breakfast or lunch by the river banks which makes it worthwhile to enjoy the nature more. They have camp fires and very friendly staff
BRIAN B — Google review
A magic experience into the wild! We have been ipnotized by the dancing and had a memorable New Year's eve with great food and amazing people! Perfect sleeping with the sound of the jungle in the background after a long day of Safari!
Giansergio C — Google review
CP5J+M68, P.O.Box 2874, Kihihi, Uganda•http://www.ugandajunglelodges.com/•+256 41 4232754•Tips and more reviews for Ishasha Jungle Lodge
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Travelers
2
Rooms and guests
Rooms
1
Adults
2
Children
0
Travelers
2
23 min · 13.6 mi
3

ishasha sector

4.3
(136)
Wildlife and safari park
The Ishasha sector, nestled within the renowned Queen Elizabeth National Park, is a captivating destination for wildlife enthusiasts. This area is famous for its unique tree-climbing lions, one of only two populations in the world. Visitors can embark on thrilling safaris to witness these majestic creatures lounging in fig and acacia trees. The park's diverse ecosystem also includes the picturesque Kazinga Channel, where hippos and Nile crocodiles bask in the sun during boat rides.
It was a great experience using Ishasha sector to visit the other side of Queen Elizabeth National Park, I came eye to eye contact with baboons
African A — Google review
There is a 50/50 percent chance that you see a so called tree lion. There are 7 tree they can sit in and if there not here, they are somewhere else.. the park itself is really really beautiful tho, also a large amount of boks and elephants, and nice nature. If you have the time, pass by
D G — Google review
We hoped to see the tree climbing lions, but did not. Spent almost 4 hours looking for them. None in view. Apparently there is only a 50% chance of seeing them. Some other animals, but there were times that we went up to an hour without seeing any wildlife.
Brian K — Google review
Very nice part of the park
Edgar R — Google review
One of the best part of nature in Uganda. Tree climbing lions is a must see! Valley drive is also an epic experience!!!
Piotr K — Google review
A rare place where you can see lions climbing on trees. Nature is nature, so you have to accept that you can't always see what you want to see. If you are someone who has experienced other game drives, you may be disappointed here where the population of animals is absolutely scarce, but the soft and peaceful plains will comfort you.
디스이즈아프리카_This A — Google review
Ishasha is the place to go to when you want to have the best expierence in Tree climbing Lions and culture
Mugisha L — Google review
We were here today, the place is big and there are three or four differents tracks to drive and look the animals for. Roads were bad because of the raining, maybe in other month are much better but right now you need a good 4x4 car. Agents said us that you could see lions and leopards inside the park, we didn’t see matbe for the rain.
Laura — Google review
Entrance Gate, Uganda•https://www.queenelizabethwildlifesafaris.com/•+256 755 271418•Tips and more reviews for ishasha sector
42 min · 16 mi
4

Lake Edward

4.2
(63)
Lake
Lake Edward, a stunning gem nestled between national parks, offers breathtaking views and an impressive variety of wildlife. This picturesque lake is particularly renowned for its birdwatching opportunities in the Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park. Here, nature enthusiasts can spot an array of fascinating bird species such as the African Darter, Giant Kingfisher, Osprey, and many more. The region's rich biodiversity makes it a paradise for bird lovers eager to experience Uganda's natural beauty.
The visit was amazing, with alot of scenery
Ben K — Google review
This place is a cool areto have a holiday form because it give u a variety of animal species, bird species and many more others. It includes several lodges like Munyenyange caves lodge, and many more.. #visit Uganda
Gilbert A — Google review
👍
Siriwayo J — Google review
Well it has been a beautiful lake but sides of katwe kabatora has got a problem of crocodiles killing and eating people
Quax E — Google review
Not until then, I had never tasted such delicious fish... People are social, modern and traditional Girls are available
Raymond K — Google review
Beautiful lake.. With a lot of crocodiles and hippos
Tugume E — Google review
Beautiful lake with lush green jungles surrounding it
Muhammad U — Google review
Loved the view of the lake mixed with small islands, the good people
Jamil O — Google review
Tips and more reviews for Lake Edward
1 hr 59 min · 44.7 mi
5

Enganzi Game Lodge Limited

4.5
(121)
Lodge
Enganzi Game Lodge Limited offers a remarkable safari experience, situated close to Queen Elizabeth National Park. The lodge provides spacious rooms with stunning views and great service. Guests can enjoy the beautiful scenery of the open savannah and may even spot elephants from the lodge. Although there are many steps to reach some rooms, the warm hospitality and comfortable accommodations make it a memorable retreat for wildlife enthusiasts.
What a location! The lodge has beautiful views of Queen Elizabeth National park! Some times animals like Elephants and Buffalos among others can be seen while at the lodge. The sunset is unbelievable! Rooms are spacious, there's a swimming pool, friendly staff and the food is so good!
Bukiire S — Google review
This place was a dream. Amazing view on the QE Park, very peaceful lodge with a beautiful atmosphere and decoration, the beds are huge and extremely comfortable, the all inclusive food is delicious. Big thank you to the team and especially to John, Monica for the outstanding service. Louise & Tom! 2025
Louise T — Google review
This place was so beautiful. I immediately felt at peace. The views, the rooms, the flowers, the pool, etc. Everything was beautiful. Most of the rooms overlook Queen Elizabeth national park so you might catch a glimpse of some elephants if you're lucky. The rooms are so comfortable and beautifully designed. To be honest, I never wanted to leave. This is a place you can go back to more than once. It favors both local tourists and foreigners. It is worth the money.
Busingye M — Google review
The Lodge looks to the park which gives it spectacular views for the cleints to enjoy. It has good a good secure parking space, flexible friendly employees and the customer care is top notch. The Lodge is located in a quiet place with only sounds of nature (birds sounds). The food is tasty and with a friendly menu
Kaddu B — Google review
The view is amazing and the staff take good care of the property! Highly recommend the location for easy access to Queen Elizabeth National Park and Kalinzu Forest.
Tyler C — Google review
Amazing lodge! Amazing experience, amazing views, best service ever! Lucas and the whole team were THE BEST!!! Thank you and see you next time!
Teresa M — Google review
I stayed three unforgettable nights at Enganzi Game Lodge. The room is fantastic. Big and very clean. The toilet and shower room is also big. The food. No words! So delicious. The staffs were kind, friendly and welcoming. The view is amazing Highly recommended this place.
Birhanu M — Google review
Great views, great service. Barely a 20 min drive to the main QENP gate. The rooms are extremely spacious with a large bathroom, tub/shower and amazing views. Do note that there are many steps to get to the bottom rooms, so those with limited mobility be aware. Would certainly stay here again the next time we're in town!
Am M — Google review
Q34G+PV7, Katara, Uganda•http://www.enganzilodge.com/•Tips and more reviews for Enganzi Game Lodge Limited
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Queen Elizabeth National Park to
Kigali

What's the weather like in Queen Elizabeth National Park?

It depends on when you visit! We've compiled data from NASA on what the weather is like in Queen Elizabeth National Park for each month of the year: see the links below for more information.

  • Weather in Queen Elizabeth National Park in January
  • Weather in Queen Elizabeth National Park in February
  • Weather in Queen Elizabeth National Park in March
  • Weather in Queen Elizabeth National Park in April
  • Weather in Queen Elizabeth National Park in May
  • Weather in Queen Elizabeth National Park in June
  • Weather in Queen Elizabeth National Park in July
  • Weather in Queen Elizabeth National Park in August
  • Weather in Queen Elizabeth National Park in September
  • Weather in Queen Elizabeth National Park in October
  • Weather in Queen Elizabeth National Park in November
  • Weather in Queen Elizabeth National Park in December

All road trips from Queen Elizabeth National Park

  • Queen Elizabeth National Park to Kigali drive

Explore nearby places

  • Queen Elizabeth National Park
  • Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
  • Murchison Falls National Park
  • Kampala
  • Entebbe
  • Jinja
  • Masindi
  • Maasai Mara National Reserve
  • Kabale
  • Kigali
  • Ruhengeri
  • Serengeti National Park
  • Lake Nakuru National Park
  • Goma
  • Naivasha
  • Ngorongoro Conservation Area
  • Nairobi
  • Mount Kenya National Park
  • Lake Manyara National Park
  • Arusha
  • Amboseli National Park
  • Moshi
  • Tsavo National Park West
  • Jinka
  • Tsavo National Park East
  • Kilimanjaro National Park
  • Tarangire National Park
  • Arba Minch
  • Watamu
  • Malindi
  • Mombasa

All related maps of Queen Elizabeth National Park

  • Map of Queen Elizabeth National Park
  • Map of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
  • Map of Murchison Falls National Park
  • Map of Kampala
  • Map of Entebbe
  • Map of Jinja
  • Map of Masindi
  • Map of Maasai Mara National Reserve
  • Map of Kabale
  • Map of Kigali
  • Map of Ruhengeri
  • Map of Serengeti National Park
  • Map of Lake Nakuru National Park
  • Map of Goma
  • Map of Naivasha
  • Map of Ngorongoro Conservation Area
  • Map of Nairobi
  • Map of Mount Kenya National Park
  • Map of Lake Manyara National Park
  • Map of Arusha
  • Map of Amboseli National Park
  • Map of Moshi
  • Map of Tsavo National Park West
  • Map of Jinka
  • Map of Tsavo National Park East
  • Map of Kilimanjaro National Park
  • Map of Tarangire National Park
  • Map of Arba Minch
  • Map of Watamu
  • Map of Malindi
  • Map of Mombasa

Queen Elizabeth National Park throughout the year

  • Queen Elizabeth National Park in January
  • Queen Elizabeth National Park in February
  • Queen Elizabeth National Park in March
  • Queen Elizabeth National Park in April
  • Queen Elizabeth National Park in May
  • Queen Elizabeth National Park in June
  • Queen Elizabeth National Park in July
  • Queen Elizabeth National Park in August
  • Queen Elizabeth National Park in September
  • Queen Elizabeth National Park in October
  • Queen Elizabeth National Park in November
  • Queen Elizabeth National Park in December

Looking for other day-by-day itineraries in Queen Elizabeth National Park?

Check out our other curated itineraries that are also filled with jam-packed days:

  • 2-Day Queen Elizabeth National Park Itinerary
  • 3-Day Queen Elizabeth National Park Itinerary
  • 4-Day Queen Elizabeth National Park Itinerary
  • 5-Day Queen Elizabeth National Park Itinerary

Day itineraries for nearby cities

  • 1-Day Arusha Itinerary
  • 1-Day Nairobi Itinerary
  • 1-Day Kampala Itinerary
  • 1-Day Moshi Itinerary
  • 1-Day Mombasa Itinerary
  • 1-Day Kigali Itinerary
  • 1-Day Entebbe Itinerary
  • 1-Day Watamu Itinerary
  • 1-Day Malindi Itinerary
  • 1-Day Jinja Itinerary
  • 1-Day Kilimanjaro National Park Itinerary
  • 1-Day Maasai Mara National Reserve Itinerary
  • 1-Day Kabale Itinerary
  • 1-Day Ruhengeri Itinerary
  • 1-Day Bwindi Impenetrable National Park Itinerary
  • 1-Day Serengeti National Park Itinerary
  • 1-Day Goma Itinerary
  • 1-Day Ngorongoro Conservation Area Itinerary
  • 1-Day Lake Manyara National Park Itinerary
  • 1-Day Arba Minch Itinerary
  • 1-Day Jinka Itinerary
  • 1-Day Naivasha Itinerary
  • 1-Day Mount Kenya National Park Itinerary
  • 1-Day Murchison Falls National Park Itinerary
  • 1-Day Masindi Itinerary
  • 1-Day Amboseli National Park Itinerary
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