Uganda’s tourism sector has entered a new phase of optimism and renewed energy following the UK’s decision to lift travel restrictions on Queen Elizabeth National Park and Semuliki National Park.
For months, many travellers, tour operators, and industry partners eagerly awaited this development — and its arrival signals the complete reopening of some of Uganda’s most iconic safari regions.
With stability restored, these parks are ready to welcome visitors looking for authentic African safari experiences.
Back in October 2023, a heartbreaking attack happened just outside Queen Elizabeth National Park. Suspected ADF rebels ambushed a safari vehicle, taking the lives of two foreign tourists and their Ugandan guide.
Because the incident was so close to the park and Semuliki lies near the DRC border, the UK government reacted quickly and issued its toughest possible travel warning — “avoid all but essential travel” — for both areas.
That single tragic event put these two incredible parks off-limits for British visitors for over two years.
The adjustment by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO):
This change strengthens Uganda’s position as one of Africa’s top destinations for nature, wildlife, and adventure.
Queen Elizabeth National Park is one of Uganda’s most visited parks, covering diverse landscapes that range from open savannah to wetlands, crater lakes, forests, and the famous Kazinga Channel.
Its location in the western arm of the East African Rift Valley makes it a hotspot of wildlife and scenic beauty, attracting travellers from across the world on safaris to Uganda.
Visitors can spot:
This biodiversity makes the park a key highlight on safaris to Uganda.
Morning and afternoon drives in Kasenyi, Mweya, and Ishasha offer excellent chances to encounter predators and grazers during Uganda wildlife safaris.
A memorable wildlife cruise where animals gather in huge numbers along the water’s edge.
Join UWA researchers as they monitor prides using radio collars.
A thrilling chimp trek into a sunken tropical forest.
Drive through volcanic crater fields with sweeping views.
All these make visiting Queen Elizabeth National Park worthwhile.
The best time to visit Queen Elizabeth National Park is during the dry seasons: June to August and December to February. These months offer superb wildlife viewing and excellent trekking conditions as animals congregate around water sources, vegetation thins out for clearer sightings, and roads remain accessible, ensuring a rewarding and comfortable safari experience throughout the park.
Semuliki National Park presents a completely different environment — a lush lowland rainforest bordering the Congo Basin, worth exploring when on safaris to Uganda.
It is one of Uganda’s most biologically rich forests, making it ideal for travellers seeking an off-the-beaten-path Uganda safari experience.
The park is home to:
This makes Semuliki a favourite among birdwatchers and primate enthusiasts on Uganda tours.
See the dramatic steam geysers and learn the cultural stories connected to these natural wonders (female and male hot springs).
Explore dense forest trails filled with monkeys, butterflies, birds, and unique vegetation.
Meet local communities who share centuries-old forest traditions and dances.
Specialised birding tours are popular for rare species like the Nkulengu rail and the Congo serpent eagle.
Semuliki National Park is accessible year-round, yet the prime visiting periods are the dry seasons of June–August and December–February. During these months, lower rainfall ensures easier trekking through the lush forest, clearer trails to the hot springs, and optimal wildlife viewing as animals frequent water sources along the Semuliki River.
Queen Elizabeth National Park
Semuliki National Park
Both parks are positioned for easy connection on a single itinerary.
Queen Elizabeth National Park
Semuliki National Park
Accommodation options cater to every budget and preference.
Uganda invested heavily in strengthening safety and monitoring across its protected areas.
Efforts included:
These upgrades restored international confidence and, hence the removal of the ban.
For Tourists
For Tour Operators
For Local Communities
Travellers are booking:
These itineraries blend savannah, rainforest, primates, and scenic drives.
Travellers often add:
This creates a complete safari to Uganda experience.
Conclusion
With the UK advisory lifted, Queen Elizabeth National Park and Semuliki National Park are fully open and perfectly positioned for unforgettable safaris.
The update restores traveller confidence, supports conservation, and brings new life to Uganda’s tourism industry.
Whether you’re searching for tree-climbing lions, chimpanzees, hot springs, forest trails, or scenic landscapes, these two parks offer some of the best Uganda safari tours available today.
Uganda is ready — and there has never been a better time to explore its wild, beautiful west.
Inquire from us now and let us craft the best itinerary for you!
Robert
Whether you're seeking top-notch safari advice or in need of expert guidance, feel free to contact us via phone or schedule a video conference with our specialists.
