Overview
Queen Elizabeth National Park is located in southwestern Uganda, spanning the districts of Kasese, Kamwenge, Rubirizi and Rukungiri which is 1,978km2 big with the bigger percentage 50% in Rubirizi, 33% in Rukungiri and 11% in Kasese and 376km in distance by road from Kampala. Queen Elizabeth National Park also spans the Equator line; monuments on either side of the road marking the exact spot where it crosses latitude 00 and its Uganda’s most visited park and is often paired with Gorilla trekking in Bwindi and Chimpanzee trekking in Kibale Forest or chimpanzee trekking in Kyambura Gorge. The park was founded or gazetted in 1952 as Kazinga National Park by combining the Lake George and Lake Edward Game Reserve. It was renamed two years later to commemorate a visit by Queen Elizabeth II to become Queen Elizabeth National Park. Many accommodations are available in all three categories (budget, mid-range and luxury) however I will mention a few that are budget friendly;
Located in Katunguru, it gives one the beautiful views of the Kazinga channel which makes sightings of elephants, buffaloes, hippos, baboons and monkeys very common. The resort has fully furnished and self-contained rooms and a restaurant which offers a variety of cuisines including continental with complimentary breakfast served to guests daily. The resort also has good camping grounds which is very favorable for tourists on a tight budget and is well accounted for even when blackouts happen as they have a standby generator.
Located in the Kyambura area with stunning views of the national park is another beautiful spot for tourists. With 5 self-contained rooms that have hot water running too, it has a possibility of spotting elephants as there is a water hole close to the cottages. The lodge provides all meals and cuisines inclusive of local meals. This is also the best option for tourists with chimpanzee trekking in mind and also offers you a chance to visit the local community around.
Is one of the most used budget facilities within Queen Elizabeth and overlooks the Kazinga channel. The channel provides a diverse array of bird species, water animals and beautiful views with a chance of watching hippos at night. It has 10 rooms fully self-contained and they provide both local and continental meals and a chance to experience the beauty of the park.
All lodging should be booked in advance to avoid any form of inconveniences and when booking budget accommodation, be sure to consider factors such as location, facilities, safety, and reviews from previous guests to ensure a comfortable stay within your budget constraints.
Simba Safari Camp
Simba safari camp is one of the cheapest accommodations located in Kikorongo Lake’s shore, Simba safari camp is the best accommodation choice for travelers who like sharing the dormitories. The camp has got the best views of Kazinga channel and Lake Edward, Kasenyi plains and at your balcony you are able to spot some animals such as antelopes, buffaloes, and sometimes leopards are sighted. Simba safari camp’s rooms are self-contained, large enough and there is always a provision of a fan in case the day is warmer.
Enjojo Lodge
Enjojo lodge is located in Ishasha sector just 2km away from Ishasha gate. This accommodation has safari tents, bamboo huts and Do-It-Yourself (DIY) camping. The lodge is eco-friendly and its favorable for every traveler.