Queen Elizabeth National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in western Uganda, spans 1,978 square kilometers across Kasese, Kamwenge, Rubirizi, and Rukungiri districts. Famous for its tree-climbing lions and the Kazinga Channel, this biodiversity hotspot is a top safari destination. While driving from Kampala takes 5–7 hours, flying offers a swift, scenic alternative, landing you near its wildlife-rich plains in under two hours. Here’s how to soar in.
Flight Options
Flights depart from Entebbe International Airport (EBB), 46 kilometers from Kampala, or Kajjansi Airfield nearby. Domestic carriers like Aerolink Uganda and Bar Aviation operate scheduled flights to two key airstrips: Kasese (20 kilometers from Mweya Peninsula) and Mweya (inside the park). The flight takes 1–1.5 hours, one way. Daily departures typically leave Entebbe at 7:00 AM or 12:45 PM, landing by 9:00 AM or 2:35 PM. Charters from Kajjansi offer flexibility for custom schedules.
Airstrip to Park
From Kasese, a 30–60-minute 4×4 transfer reaches Mweya, the park’s hub, or Kasenyi for game drives (1–1.5 hours). Mweya Airstrip, on the peninsula, is steps from lodges and the Kazinga Channel boat launch, ideal for quick starts. Transfers, often arranged by lodges or tour operators, depending on distance. For Ishasha’s lions, flights to Kihihi Airstrip (2–3 hours away) are an option, though less direct.
Why Fly?
Flying trims a 410 kilometer road trip to a 1.5 hour hop, maximizing time for boat cruises, chimp treks, or lion spotting. Aerial views of the Rwenzori Mountains and savanna add a thrilling prelude to your safari.