Backpacking in Queen Elizabeth National Park – Queen Elizabeth National Park has many animals, with over 95 species and more than 600 bird species. It also has good landscapes, low-cost activities, and simple accommodation that is good for backpackers.
The best time to visit the park is during the dry season from June to August and December to February. During this time, animals gather near water sources, making them easy to see. The roads are also dry and easier to travel.
Camping and walking safaris are more comfortable in this season. The wet season is from March to May and September to November. Fewer people visit during this time, and some lodges may offer discounts, but the rain can make roads muddy and harder to use.
You can get to the park by public bus from Kampala to Kasese, which takes about 6 to 7 hours. Bus companies like Link take you to Kasese. From there, you can take a motorcycle (boda boda) to Mweya or Katunguru, which takes about 1 hour. If you are going to the Ishasha sector, take a bus to Kanungu and get off at the Ishasha gate, then take a motorcycle into the park.
Good budget places to stay include the Ishasha bandas and campsites, which are affordable and run by the Uganda Wildlife Authority. These are inside the park and close to many activities.
The Mweya Peninsula also has Mweya hostels and campsites, also run by the Uganda Wildlife Authority. These places fill up quickly, so book early. Around the Katunguru bridge area, there are other budget options like Hippo Hill Hostel, Simba Safari Camp, and Tembo Safari Lodge. These provide simple and clean places to sleep.
Backpackers can enjoy many activities. One of the best is the boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel. You can book this through Mweya Hostel or any nearby lodge. The price is reasonable, and it is a great way to see hippos, crocodiles, and water birds, especially in the afternoon.
You can also join a shared game drive or hitchhike to Kasenyi Plains or the Ishasha sector to see tree-climbing lions. Other options include community visits to the Leopard Village near Mweya or a forest walk in Maramagambo Forest.
To prepare for your trip, buy food in Kasese, especially items that do not go bad quickly. Pack light and breathable clothes, comfortable shoes, a camera, snacks, a first aid kit, a reusable water bottle, and insect repellent. Also carry small amounts of cash for motorcycles, local shops, and tips if you hitchhike.
Always follow park rules to stay safe. Backpacking may not be fancy, but it is a good way to enjoy everything the park offers, not just the animals, but the scenery and local experiences too.
