How exciting to hear the news about the UK travel advisory being lifted for Queen Elizabeth National Park and Semuliki National Park.

The removal of this travel advisory means that more UK travelers can now explore these beautiful destinations on a safari in Uganda Africa.

The History of The Travel Advisory on Queen Elizabeth NP And Semuliki NP 

The travel advisory for Queen Elizabeth National Park and Semuliki NP was put in place following the killing of two tourists from the UK and South Africa with their Ugandan tour guide.

The two tourists were on their honeymoon: David Barlow from Britain and his wife, Emmaretia Celia Geyer from South Africa, along with their Ugandan guide, Eric Ayai. These were shot, and their safari vehicle was set on fire while on a trip in Queen Elizabeth National Park.

This tragic event happened on 17th October 2023, during an attack from the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF).

About Queen Elizabeth National Park

Queen Elizabeth National Park is Uganda’s most visited game park by tourists on almost every safari in Uganda. It is in western Uganda in the Kamwenge, Kasese, and Rubirizi districts, bordering Lake George and Lake Edward.

It was first established as Kazinga National Park in 1952 and renamed as Queen Elizabeth National Park in 1954.

Tourist Attractions in Queen Elizabeth National Park 

• Over 95 mammal species, including the tree-climbing lions, elephants, antelope species, etc., making it the best destination for Uganda wildlife safaris.
• Over 600 bird species, e.g., the great blue turaco, the grey-crowned crane, etc., worth seeing while birding in Uganda or on Uganda safari tours.
• Kazinga Channel
• Vast savannahs
• Katwe salt lakes, which are renowned for salt mining

Tourist Activities in Queen Elizabeth National Park 

• Game drives to spot the different wildlife species
• Tracking of tree-climbing lions
• Boat cruises on the Kazinga Channel
• Bird watching to spot the numerous bird species
• Guided nature walks to see some of the wildlife, like the plants, more closely
• Community visits for cultural encounters

Best Time to Visit Queen Elizabeth National Park 

For visitors interested in safaris to Uganda, the best time to visit Queen Elizabeth NP is during the drier months (June to September and December to February). During this time, the vegetation thins, making it easy to spot the diverse wildlife.

However, some visit the park during the wet season (October to November and March to May). It is the best time for birding, and it also offers lush green scenery.

Semuliki National Park 

Semuliki National Park is Uganda’s true lowland tropical rainforest, located in the Bundibugyo District in western Uganda, bordering the Democratic Republic of Congo.

It was established in October 1993, and it covers an area of about 220 km².

Tourist Attractions in Semuliki National Park

• Over 440 bird species, e.g., the Rwenzori turaco, Nkulengu rail, Yellow-throated nicator, etc.
• The scenic Sempaya hot springs
• Semuliki River
• Numerous animal species, e.g., forest elephants, duikers, antelopes, etc.
• Diverse primate species, including baboons and red-tailed monkeys, among others, which make it one of the destinations for primate safaris in Uganda Africa.

Tourist Activities in Semuliki National Park 

• Guided nature walks
• Game drives
• Primate trekking
• Hike to Sempaya hot springs and the Semuliki River
• Bird watching

Best Time to Visit Semuliki National Park 

Visitors who may want to take a safari to Uganda can best visit Semuliki National Park during the dry season when the weather conditions favour most of the outdoor activities, like game drives and primate tracking, among others.

Travelers can also visit the park during the wet season, especially those with a low budget, and there are always fewer crowds for those interested in touring with few people.

 Impacts of Lifting of the Travel Advisory on Queen Elizabeth NP and Semuliki NP 

• Creation of more jobs for the locals who work in guiding services, hospitality, transportation, and other related tourism sectors.
• Increase in the visitor numbers, not only from the UK but also from other countries, given the improvement in safety and stability. The new arrivals are expected to take part in birding tours, mountaineering safaris, and cultural experiences, among other safaris.
• Support for the local communities since the economic benefits from tourism trickle down to local communities, supporting local businesses, conservation efforts, and funding of other essential services.
• Restoration of confidence of travelers from the UK and other international markets, and this is expected to lead to an increase in safaris to Uganda, since it is now considered safe.

Conclusion

The UK’s lifting of a travel advisory on QENP and Semuliki NP is a great opportunity for Uganda to enjoy the higher visitor numbers from different parts of the world again, given the increased confidence in travelers. Contact us now to help you plan your memorable safari to Uganda.