What Are the Best Lodges in Queen Elizabeth National Park?

Queen Elizabeth National Park is one of Uganda’s most iconic safari destinations, known for its diverse landscapes, abundant wildlife, and spectacular scenery that stretches from the Rwenzori Mountains to the shores of Lake Edward and George. This park, nestled in the heart of western Uganda, is a paradise for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. With open savannahs, crater lakes, dense forests, and the famous Kazinga Channel teeming with hippos, crocodiles, and elephants, it’s no wonder that Queen Elizabeth is often called the “medley of wonders.”

But beyond the park’s incredible beauty and wildlife, where you stay plays a major role in shaping your experience. Queen Elizabeth National Park offers an impressive range of accommodations — from luxury lodges perched on escarpments with stunning views to intimate bush camps hidden deep within the wild. Whether you’re looking for five-star comfort, a cozy eco-lodge, or a budget-friendly safari tent, there’s something here for every traveler.

Here’s a guide to the best lodges in Queen Elizabeth National Park, carefully selected to suit different tastes and budgets, and what makes each of them unique.

Mweya Safari Lodge

Mweya Safari Lodge is one of the most famous lodges in Queen Elizabeth National Park and a true icon of Ugandan safaris. Set on a peninsula overlooking the Kazinga Channel and Lake Edward, it offers some of the best views in the entire park. From the lodge’s veranda or infinity pool, you can watch elephants, hippos, and buffaloes along the water’s edge.

The lodge exudes colonial charm, with elegant rooms and suites that combine comfort and class. Its restaurant serves both local and international cuisine, and the bar area provides the perfect spot to enjoy a cocktail as the sun sets over the savannah. For an extra special experience, Mweya offers luxury cottages and a Presidential Suite, perfect for honeymooners or VIP travelers.

Best for: Travelers seeking luxury, comfort, and unbeatable views.

Kyambura Gorge Lodge

Located on the edge of the Kyambura Gorge, this eco-luxury lodge is known for its incredible setting and sophisticated design. Kyambura Gorge Lodge offers breathtaking views of the vast savannah, the gorge below, and the distant Rwenzori Mountains. The lodge’s architecture blends reclaimed wood, natural stone, and locally inspired decor, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Each of the stylish bandas (cottages) has a private balcony where guests can relax while watching the changing colors of the sky. What makes Kyambura Gorge Lodge truly unique is its focus on sustainability and conservation. Guests can participate in chimpanzee tracking in the gorge, visit local community projects, or simply unwind by the pool with panoramic views.

Best for: Eco-conscious travelers, luxury adventurers, and primate enthusiasts.

Ishasha Wilderness Camp

For travelers drawn to the remote southern sector of the park — home of the famous tree-climbing lions — Ishasha Wilderness Camp is an ideal choice. This intimate, eco-friendly camp sits along the Ntungwe River and features ten spacious canvas tents, each with private verandas and en-suite bathrooms.

The camp’s design blends seamlessly with its surroundings, giving guests a true sense of being immersed in nature. At night, you can hear the distant calls of lions and the soothing sounds of the river. The camp offers personalized service, delicious meals, and expertly guided game drives in search of lions, leopards, and elephants. It’s also a wonderful spot for birdwatchers.

Best for: Nature lovers, photographers, and travelers seeking tranquility and authenticity.

Katara Lodge

Perched high on the escarpment overlooking the Great Rift Valley, Katara Lodge combines luxury, comfort, and breathtaking scenery. Each of the lodge’s cottages is beautifully designed with natural materials, open-air verandas, and spacious interiors that make you feel close to nature. Some cottages even feature rollaway beds that can be set up outside for stargazing nights under the African sky.

The lodge’s restaurant offers fresh, locally sourced meals, while the staff ensure every guest feels pampered. With its infinity pool, private decks, and eco-friendly principles, Katara Lodge is a favorite among honeymooners and those who crave quiet sophistication.

Best for: Couples, honeymooners, and luxury safari travelers.

Elephant Plains Lodge

Elephant Plains Lodge is one of the newer additions to Queen Elizabeth National Park’s accommodation scene, but it has quickly earned a reputation for excellence. Sitting atop a hill near the park’s northern boundary, the lodge boasts panoramic views over Lake George, the Kazinga Channel, and the open plains below.

The spacious cottages are beautifully furnished, with large windows that allow natural light and a constant connection to the outdoors. Guests can relax in the infinity pool, dine on gourmet meals, or unwind in the lounge while watching elephants roam the plains. Its location near the Mweya Peninsula and Kasese Airstrip makes it convenient for both road and fly-in safaris.

Best for: Families, luxury travelers, and those seeking convenience with comfort.

Marafiki Safari Lodge

Marafiki Safari Lodge perfectly balances rustic charm with modern comfort. Set on a hill overlooking Lake George, this lodge offers sweeping views of the park and the Rwenzori Mountains. Accommodation includes open-fronted safari tents on wooden platforms, designed to let you experience the sights and sounds of the wild without compromising comfort.

Each tent features en-suite bathrooms and private verandas, while the main lodge area includes a bar, restaurant, and campfire space. Marafiki also offers family cottages, making it suitable for group travelers. Guests can enjoy boat safaris, game drives, and nature walks, all easily accessible from the lodge.

Best for: Mid-range travelers and adventure seekers who love close-to-nature experiences.

Enganzi Game Lodge

Enganzi Game Lodge is a perfect choice for travelers seeking affordability without sacrificing comfort. Located near the Katunguru Gate, the lodge sits on a hill with magnificent views of the park’s rolling plains and the distant Rwenzori Mountains.

The lodge offers spacious cottages built with natural materials that blend harmoniously with the landscape. Guests can enjoy a refreshing swim, dine in the open-air restaurant, and relax on the viewing deck with a cool drink after a game drive. Its friendly staff and excellent service make it one of the most loved mid-range lodges in the area.

Best for: Budget-conscious travelers and families looking for comfort and good value.

Queen Elizabeth Bush Lodge

For travelers who crave an authentic bush experience, Queen Elizabeth Bush Lodge delivers exactly that. Managed by Nature Lodges Uganda, this camp sits on the banks of the Kazinga Channel and combines a rustic atmosphere with warm hospitality.

Accommodation options include safari tents and bandas with en-suite bathrooms. The lodge is eco-friendly, with solar power and open-air showers that enhance the sense of wilderness. Meals are served in a thatched dining area overlooking the river, where guests can watch hippos and elephants passing by.

Bush Lodge offers a relaxed atmosphere perfect for travelers who want to feel immersed in nature without the formalities of a high-end lodge.

Best for: Backpackers, adventure travelers, and those seeking a down-to-earth safari experience.

Parkview Safari Lodge

Parkview Safari Lodge is located in the Kyambura area, making it a convenient base for exploring both the Kyambura Gorge and the Kasenyi Plains. The lodge offers spacious rooms with private balconies, an inviting swimming pool, and a restaurant serving a variety of local and international dishes.

The property’s elevated position provides sweeping views of Lake George and the surrounding savannah. Parkview’s warm hospitality, comfortable amenities, and central location make it an ideal choice for families and small groups looking for a mid-range option with easy access to key attractions.

Best for: Families, groups, and mid-range travelers seeking comfort and convenience.

Buffalo Safari Lodge

Another excellent mid-range option, Buffalo Safari Lodge is situated between the Katunguru and Kikorongo areas, offering quick access to the Kazinga Channel and Kasenyi Plains. The lodge features spacious cottages with beautiful furnishings, a large restaurant, and a cozy bar overlooking the plains.

Guests can unwind by the pool, enjoy guided walks around the lodge, or take part in night game drives arranged by experienced guides. Buffalo Safari Lodge is also known for its excellent hospitality and serene environment that makes you feel right at home.

Best for: Couples and families looking for comfort and value close to the park.

Choosing the Right Lodge for Your Safari

The best lodge for your stay in Queen Elizabeth National Park depends on your travel style, budget, and interests. For luxury and scenic elegance, Mweya Safari Lodge, Kyambura Gorge Lodge, and Katara Lodge stand out. For a remote and authentic wilderness escape, Ishasha Wilderness Camp is hard to beat. Mid-range travelers will love the charm and affordability of Marafiki Safari Lodge, Enganzi Game Lodge, or Parkview Safari Lodge. And for those who prefer a closer connection to nature, Queen Elizabeth Bush Lodge offers a truly wild experience.

Whichever lodge you choose, you’ll find that each one offers breathtaking views, excellent service, and the opportunity to explore one of Uganda’s most enchanting national parks in comfort and style.

Recommended Safari Operator: Experiya Tour Company

To make the most of your stay in Queen Elizabeth National Park, it’s best to travel with a trusted safari operator that knows every corner of the park. Experiya Tour Company is highly recommended for travelers who want seamless logistics, knowledgeable guides, and carefully curated experiences. Their team helps you choose the perfect lodge based on your preferences and budget while handling all arrangements, from park entry to game drives and boat cruises.

With Experiya Tour Company, you don’t just visit Queen Elizabeth National Park — you experience it in the best way possible. Whether it’s a sunrise game drive through Kasenyi Plains, a sunset boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel, or a romantic dinner overlooking the savannah, Experiya ensures every moment is unforgettable.