Queen Elizabeth National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in western Uganda, spans 1,978 square kilometers across Kasese, Kamwenge, Rubirizi, and Rukungiri districts. Renowned for its wildlife and the Kazinga Channel, this equatorial gem is accessible by road or air from Kampala, Entebbe, or Kigali. Here’s how to reach its heart at Mweya Peninsula or other key sectors like Ishasha.
By Road from Kampala or Entebbe
The most popular route starts in Kampala or Entebbe, 410 kilometers (255 miles) from Mweya. The 5 to 7-hour drive via the Kampala-Masaka-Mbarara-Kasese road offers paved stretches and scenic plains. Stop at the Equator in Kayabwe for photos, or Mbarara for a break. A 4×4 vehicle is recommended beyond Mbarara, especially for Ishasha (6 to 8 hours, 460 kilometers), where roads turn rougher. Public buses from Kampala to Kasese connect to private taxis or lodge transfers for the final 20 to 40 kilometers to Mweya.
By Road from Kigali, Rwanda
A shorter option begins in Kigali, 250–300 kilometers (155–186 miles) away, taking 4–6 hours via the Katuna or Chanika border crossings. This well-paved route crosses into Uganda near Kabale, then heads to Mweya or Ishasha. Ensure your visa and yellow fever certificate are ready for border formalities. A 4×4 is handy for the park’s interior tracks.
By Air
For speed, fly from Entebbe International Airport (EBB) to Kasese or Mweya airstrips. Aerolink Uganda and other carriers offer daily flights, landing you within 20–40 minutes of Mweya by 4×4 transfer (often lodge-arranged). Charters from Kajjansi Airfield near Kampala provide flexibility. Book early, especially for dry seasons (June–August, December–February).