Tree climbing lions are one of natural wonders that Uganda boosted about. Tree climbing lions are one of a kind and they are believed to only exist in two East African countries which are Uganda (Queen Elizabeth National Park) and Tanzania (Tarangire National Park and Lake Manyara National Park). Queen Elizabeth National Park is located in the western part of Uganda approximately 400 kilometers from Kampala by road, covering an area of approximately 1,978 square kilometers. Queen Elizabeth National Park is made up or covers about four districts, and these include Kasese district, Rubirizi district, Rukungiri district, and Kamwenge district. Here is what you need to know about tree climbing lions in Queen Elizabeth National Park
Where to see/spot tree climbing lions in Uganda found
Though Uganda has a number of lions which are found in different travel destinations of the country, when it comes to tree climbing lions they are only found or can only be spotted in Queen Elizabeth National Park. Queen Elizabeth National Park is made up or has four main sectors and among these sectors the tree climbing lions can be spotted or can be seen in only one sector which is the Ishasha sector which is located in the southern part of the park and is famous or known for tree climbing lions.
Why do lions in Queen Elizabeth National Park climb trees?
No one knows the real reasons as to why the lions in Queen Elizabeth National Park (Isha sha sector) climb trees but scientist or researchers say that these lions climb trees as a result of adapting to the conditions in the environment they live in. since the areas these lions live in are considered to have tsetse flies, the lions climb trees to avoid bites and also since the weather conditions mostly during the dry seasons of the year are hot , these lions adopted tree climbing to avoid or escape the heat from the ground. The vegetation cover in the Ishasha sector also favors the tree climbing lions since it is mostly made up of fig trees, acacia trees and grass lands which is spotted with candelabra shrubs. Also, by climbing trees, these lions get a higher ground offering them with a better view of the area hence spotting their preys.
Other attractions in Isha sha sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park
Apart from tree climbing lions, there are also other attractions that you can look forward to spotting or seeing when you visit this sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park. Some of these attractions include different bird species like Long Crested Eagle, Brown Snake Eagle, Martial Eagle, Grey kestrel, African Crake, Double toothed barbet, to name a few, different plant species, other wild animals like warthogs, antelopes, buffaloes, spotted hyenas, leopards, to name a few.
Activities / Things to do in Isha sha sector of Bwindi
Just like there are a variety of attractions, in the same way there are a number of travel or tourism activities that can be done in Isha sha sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park and some of these include, Guided game drives, Birding, and cultural or community visit.
What is the best time to visit Isaha sha sector?
Isha sha sector is always open to visitors throughout the year but the best time or recommended time to visit is during the dry season of the year (June to September and December to February). The dry season is the best time to visit because during this time of the year the driving trails are dry and more accessible, the wild animals in the park are more active and in the open grass lands where they can easily be spotted. Also, during the dry season of the year the weather conditions are more favorable for the outdoor activities such as game drives.
How to get to Queen Elizabeth National Park
By road
By road getting to Queen Elizabeth National Park, it takes approximately 7 to 8 hours depending on the traffic and the route used to get there. You can get there by using either the Fort portal – Mubende route or decide to use the Masaka – Mbarara rout.
By air
You can also get to Queen Elizabeth National Park by using air transport using different aircrafts and fly from Entebbe International Airport to Kihihi Airstrip, Mweya Airstrip or Kasese Airstrip. The flight from Entebbe International Airport to Queen Elizabeth National Park take approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.
What to pack when visiting Queen Eizabeth National Park?
In order to ensure your safety and comfort, there are things or items you should consider packing or bringing along when visiting Queen Elizabeth National Park and some of these items include,
Insect repellant
Since you’re heading to a new area which is covered with vast vegetation a habitant to a number or variety of insects which include poisonous ones as well. So, in order to protect yourself, you should bring along an insect repellant.
Sunscreen
Game drives done with the purpose of spotting tree climbing lions in Queen Elizabeth National Park are done during the day, expect sunlight so to protect yourself from direct sunrays, you should consider packing along sunscreen.
A pair of binoculars
This one is optional, but you should also consider packing it since you may need it to spot different bird species that you will notice flying around in the park.
Refillable drinking water bottle
Rehydration is the way to go while on any safari so packing or bringing along a refillable drinking water bottle should be considered. Also, by doing that you will be contributing to sustainable tourism
Other items or thing as you should consider bringing or packing include, a camera and extra batteries, a hat or cape, clothes with neutral colors, energy giving snacks, jacket or sweater, to list a few.
Apart from the famous tree climbing lions, Queen Elizabeth National Park has a lot more to offer starting from crater lakes, wild life, birds, caves, to list a few all you have to do is book now with us and let us plan your amazing Uganda adventure depending on what you want to see and do and all we will do is to assist you while we turn your dream in to a reality.