Queen Elizabeth National Park: where lions climb trees

There are places in the world where nature breaks its own rules. Queen Elizabeth National Park in Uganda is one of them — a place where you can witness something that few truly believe exists: tree-climbing lions.

In the heart of Africa, amidst lakes, savannas, and volcanic hills, this park is more than just a safari destination. It sets the stage for some of the most unexpected and beautiful wildlife spectacles.

Why are the lions here different?

Lions are usually associated with the ground — majestic, heavy, guarding their open territories. But in the Ishasha area in the southern part of the park, the lions have adopted unusual behaviour — climbing trees and spending hours lounging on the broad branches of fig and acacia trees.

Scientists believe this is due to a combination of factors:

• Avoiding the heat — it's cooler up among the branches.

• A defensive position against tsetse flies and other insects.

• Better visibility over the territory to watch for prey.

Regardless of the reason, the sight of a mighty lion, lounging like a king of the world on a high branch, is something hard to forget.

What else can you experience in Queen Elizabeth National Park?

• Safari through the savannas – observing elephants, buffaloes, antelopes, hyenas, and of course, big cats.

• Cruise on the Kazinga Channel – encountering thousands of hippos, crocodiles, and hundreds of birds just metres away from your boat.

• Walk in the Kyambura forests – searching for chimpanzees among the dense tropical vegetation.

• Incredible views – lakes, craters, and endless horizons that change with every turn.

Best time to visit

The park is open year-round, but the best months for a safari are during the dry seasons: from June to September and from December to February. During these times, animals are more concentrated around water sources, and the grass is lower, allowing for better visibility.

How to prepare?

• Bring binoculars – to spot the climbing lions, which are sometimes far among the trees.

• Dress in neutral colours – to avoid attracting the attention of the animals.

• Pack water and sun protection – Uganda is warm, especially in the savanna.

• Be patient – safari experiences require time, observation, and an open heart.

Queen Elizabeth – a realm of natural wonders

Queen Elizabeth National Park is one of those rare places where nature tells stories that no writer could ever invent. Here, you can witness elephants majestically crossing the plains, hippos bathing at sunset, and lions resting high above the ground, in the silence of the African sky.

Join Panic Frame & Travel and let's traverse these lands of wonder together — where every encounter with nature is a memory for a lifetime.