Tree Climbing Lions of Ishasha in Uganda

Discover the incredible Tree Climbing Lions of Uganda, a fascinating part of the majestic lion family, the largest cats still gracing the African wilderness. These remarkable creatures play a vital role in maintaining the delicate balance of the ecosystem by keeping herbivore populations, such as buffalo and various antelope species, in check.. Embark on an adventure to witness these extraordinary lions in their natural habitat, and help raise awareness about their conservation, plus experience the thrill of seeing them climb trees in Ishasha.

Queen Elizabeth National Park is particularly special, as it is home to around 130 of the estimated 400 lions in Uganda and is the most popular park among visitors. What sets Queen Elizabeth apart is its diverse scenery, featuring the lush Maramagambo Forest, the beautiful Kazinga Channel, breathtaking craters, and the impressive Kyambura Gorge.

The Ishasha Sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park

The remote Ishasha plains offer a unique experience that sets them apart from the rest of Queen Elizabeth National Park. Experience the wonder of the Ishasha plains, home to four majestic prides of lions, with an estimated population of around 50 lions. These fascinating creatures have a unique habit of climbing the region’s iconic acacia trees, especially during the dry season. This behaviour makes spotting them quite easy, as entire prides can often be found lounging high above the ground.

The local park authorities keep a close eye on their movements, and they can assist in tracking these incredible lions upon request. Visiting the tree-climbing lions of Ishasha is a must for any wildlife enthusiast and can be seamlessly included in an adventurous safari tour of Queen Elizabeth National Park, and you can also explore other nearby gems like Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and Lake Mburo.

How to reach the Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park

Traveling to the Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park offers a couple of exciting options, whether you prefer the thrill of the skies or the scenic beauty of the road. If you are short on time, you can board on a chartered flight from Entebbe International Airport or Kajjansi in Kampala directly to Ishasha’s airstrip.

For those who want to soak in the stunning Ugandan countryside, consider driving. A road trip from Kampala or Entebbe to the park via Mbarara takes about six hours and explores charming small towns along the way. If you are going for the unforgettable experience of gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, you can easily reach Ishasha afterwards. The trek itself takes around 2 to 3 hours, making it a great addition to your adventure in this beautiful region!

If you are traveling along the Kampala-Mbarara highway and heading to Ishasha, consider taking the Katunguru Mweya route. It’s a shorter option, but keep in mind that it can be quite unreliable during the wet season. Heavy trucks frequently use this road, which can make it muddy and full of potholes. To ensure a smooth journey, it’s a good idea to check in with the park offices for updates on the road conditions before you set out.

The best time to visit Ishasha

Queen Elizabeth National Park and the Ishasha sector are open to visitors on a Uganda safari throughout the year; therefore, the dry season (June to September and December to February) is considered the peak season for tourists in Uganda, considering this season is perfect for a safari because the park is less muddy and the lions are easier to locate. The months of April, May, October, and November are the rainy seasons and are more ideal for bird-watching.

What to do in Queen Elizabeth National Park

Cultural Visits:  You will learn traditional practices surrounding marriage and family life from local women, visit homesteads to discover how to prepare authentic meals like millet porridge and bananas, and even help harvest millet and make flour in the gardens. It’s a unique opportunity to engage with the community and experience their traditions firsthand!

Game drive to see other animal species: Experience the incredible wildlife of the Ishasha sector on a game drive. Here, you can spot kobs, warthogs, buffaloes, elephants, baboons, leopards, and a variety of birds like the black coucal and herons. For a different adventure, trek for chimpanzees in the stunning Kyambura gorge, explore the Maramagambo forest on a nature walk, or enjoy a scenic boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel, known for its remarkable wildlife and birdlife.

Where to stay in Ishasha – QENP

Since Ishasha has a few accommodation setups, booking in advance with your tour operator in Uganda is highly recommended, especially during the peak seasons like June. Let’s look at two of the more popular lodges in Ishasha. Alternantively, you can inquire more from us about your upcoming safari

Ishasha Wilderness Camp: It is alongside the serene River Ntungwe, this camp is a hidden gem in a remote and untouched area. It offers 10 luxurious tents, each beautifully designed, with stunning views of the river.

Enjojo Lodge: Enjojo Lodge is the perfect blend of mid-range comfort and luxury, designed to immerse you in the beauty of the African wilderness. Built using local materials, the lodge captures the essence of its surroundings. You will find that all the decorations have been lovingly crafted by talented local artists, many of whom hail from nearby communities. The cozy cottages provide a peaceful retreat, allowing you to unwind and recharge as you anticipate the exciting activities each day has in store. One highlight for guests is fishing at Lake Akanyanza, where you can try your hand at catching tilapia, catfish, and lungfish.