UK LIFTS ADVISORY ON QUEEN ELIZABETH & SEMULIKI NATIONAL PARK — A NEW DAWN FOR UGANDA TOURISM

Uganda’s tourism industry is celebrating a major breakthrough after the United Kingdom, through the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), lifted its travel advisory on Queen Elizabeth National Park and Semuliki National Park on 2nd December 2025.

This update signals renewed confidence in Uganda as a safe safari destination/location and brings fresh opportunities for travellers, tour companies, and communities living around these two iconic parks.

For anyone planning safaris to Uganda, this development marks an ideal time to explore the rich wildlife, landscapes, and cultural experiences Western Uganda has to offer.

History of the FCDO Advisory 

The advisory was initially imposed due to isolated safety concerns in parts of Western Uganda after alleged ADF rebels killed two tourists and a Ugandan guide. Over time, Uganda increased joint security operations, strengthened park ranger presence, and improved collaboration with communities.

The improved stability and strong tourism management led to the complete removal of the advisory by the UK travel authorities.

Understanding the FCDO Update 

The FCDO regularly provides safety guidance to UK nationals traveling abroad. When a travel warning is removed, it means:

• The destination is considered secure
• Tour insurance becomes easier to access
• Tourism activity can resume without hesitation
• International confidence in the country improves

By approving travel to Queen Elizabeth and Semuliki, the UK acknowledges Uganda’s commitment to ensuring safe tourism experiences.

Why the Advisory Removal Matters to Different Stakeholders? 

For Travellers

• More confidence in planning safaris to Uganda
• Better access to travel insurance for any Uganda trip to these locations
• Reassurance of improved security

For Tour Operators

• Resumption of postponed Uganda safari packages to these tourist hotspots
• Higher international bookings for safaris in Uganda Africa
• Improved business stability

For Communities

• More jobs in tour guiding, accommodation, and crafts
• Increased revenue for households
• Stronger support for conservation projects

Detailed Overview of The Destinations Where the Ban Was Lifted by UK Authorities

Queen Elizabeth Park, Uganda 

Queen Elizabeth National Park remains one of Uganda’s flagship wildlife destinations, famous for its tree-climbing lions, diverse birdlife, crater lakes, and the scenic Kazinga Channel. Anyone seeking Uganda safari tours will find the park an unforgettable highlight.

The park is found in the southwestern part of Uganda, spanning an area of ~1,978 km². Established in 1952, the Queen Elizabeth National Park is covered in savanna plains, wetlands, volcanic formations, and tropical forests

The park stretches through the Albertine Rift and links several ecosystems that support hundreds of animal and bird species.

KEY SAFARI HIGHLIGHTS IN QUEEN ELIZABETH NATIONAL PARK IN UGANDA 

The park is home to elephants, lions (even the tree-climbing lions), Kazinga Channel hippos, crocodiles, leopards, hyenas, buffaloes and antelopes, and over 600 bird species. It’s this wildlife density that makes it one of East Africa’s most rewarding safari destinations.

AMAZING THINGS TO DO IN QUEEN ELIZABETH NATIONAL PARK

Some of the fun safari activities done in Queen Elizabeth NP include.

• Classic Game Drives: Kasenyi plains and Mweya offer excellent sightings of lions, Uganda kobs, elephants, and other wildlife.
• Kazinga Channel Boat Safari: The Kazinga Channel is a haven for hippos, crocodiles, buffaloes, elephants, and migratory birds. Boat safaris provide close-up wildlife experiences.
• Explore the Ishasha Sector: This area is globally known for tree-climbing lions — a rare wildlife behaviour that draws photographers from around the world.
• Kyambura Gorge Chimp Trekking: A lush, forested gorge ideal for spotting chimpanzees and experiencing primate behaviour in the wild.
• Crater Drive: The drive through volcanic craters offers breathtaking scenery and panoramic views.

QUEEN ELIZABETH NATIONAL PARK ACCOMMODATION 

Tourists who go for safaris to Uganda’s Queen Elizabeth Park can spend their overnight in lodges like

• High-end lodges such as Mweya Safari Lodge
• Mid-range stays like Buffalo Safari Lodge and Engiri Lodge
• Budget options including Pumba Safari Cottages and local community camps

Don’t miss an adventure of a lifetime, book your Uganda safari to Queen Elizabeth National Park today, and marvel at the beauty it holds!

BEST TIME TO VISIT UGANDA SAFARI PARK -QUEEN ELIZABETH NP 

The optimal months to explore Queen Elizabeth National Park are June through August and December through February. During these dry seasons, reduced vegetation and animals clustering near water make wildlife observation and guided treks exceptionally rewarding and hassle-free.

For those interested in fewer crowds and discounts, the wet season is also okay to explore this Uganda wildlife safari park.

Semuliki National Park 

Semuliki National Park offers a distinct experience from Uganda’s savanna parks. Known for its Congo-style lowland rainforest, hot springs, and rare wildlife, the park is a hidden treasure for travellers seeking authentic nature experiences while on Uganda trips.

The park is found in the Bundibugyo District, extending to an area of ~220 km² and covered in tropical rainforest.

Its biodiversity is influenced by the Congo Basin, making it one of the most unique ecological zones in Uganda.

KEY SAFARI HIGHLIGHTS IN SEMULIKI NATIONAL PARK IN UGANDA 

When it comes to wildlife, the park features forest elephants, forest buffaloes, chimpanzees, baboons, and monkey species, over 441 bird species, rare butterflies, and forest reptiles, often seen during Uganda wildlife safaris.

AMAZING THINGS TO DO IN SEMULIKI NATIONAL PARK 

Some of the fun safari activities done in Semuliki NP include.

• Visit the Sempaya Hot Springs: These famous hot springs, locally named “male” and “female,” are powerful geothermal features. Visitors can see water bubbling and even cook food in the springs.
• Primate Walks: Guided forest treks offer chances to spot chimpanzees, guenons, mangabeys, and colobus monkeys.
• Birdwatching: Semuliki is ideal for ornithologists, especially those seeking rare and Central African species not found in other Ugandan parks.
• Cultural Experiences: Neighbouring Batwa communities share traditional songs, stories, and cultural practices from centuries of living in the forest.

SEMULIKI NATIONAL PARK ACCOMMODATION 

Travelers who go for safaris to Uganda’s Semuliki NP can spend their overnight in lodges like

• Semuliki Safari Lodge (luxury)
• Mid-range options near Semuliki Wildlife Reserve
• Guesthouses in Bundibugyo or Fort Portal for budget travel

BEST TIME TO VISIT UGANDA SAFARI PARK -SEMULIKI NP 

The optimal seasons for Semuliki National Park are the dry months of June to August and December to February. With minimal rain, forest paths remain firm underfoot, visits to the dramatic hot springs are hassle-free, and animals are more easily observed as they concentrate near reliable water points.

For travelers interested in fewer crowds and discounts, the wet season is also okay to explore this Uganda wildlife safari park.

Additional Information for Safari Planning to Semuliki and Queen Elizabeth Park, Uganda 

How to Reach the Uganda Safari Parks? 

Queen Elizabeth NP

• By Road: 6–7 hours from Kampala via the Mbarara or Fort Portal route
• By Air: Flights from Entebbe to Mweya or Kasese

Semuliki NP

• By Road: 5–6 hours from Kampala via the Fort Portal route
• By Air: Flights into Semuliki Airstrip or Fort Portal airfield

More Travel Tips

• Use registered tour operators
• Carry light clothing, insect repellent, and hiking shoes
• Travel during dry seasons for better wildlife viewing
• Follow park ranger instructions at all times

Tour Operators Offering Uganda Trips to these Game Parks 

Numerous Uganda safari companies now run trips to both parks, including:

• Prime Safaris and Tours Ltd
• Wild Gorilla Safaris
• Safari Uganda Safaris
• Gorilla Safaris and Tours
• A Uganda Safari
• Africa Safaris Tours
• Uganda Birding Safaris
• Gorilla Trekking Uganda
• Kampala City Tour
• Self-Drive Car Hire Rentals Uganda
• Car Hire Rentals Uganda Kampala

Common packages they are offering now include:

• 3 Days Queen Elizabeth Safari
• 4 Days Queen Elizabeth & Chimp Tracking
• 4 Days Semuliki Hot Springs & Forest Walk
• 5 Days Semuliki & Queen Elizabeth Combo
• 8–10 Days Western Uganda Safari Adventure

These can also integrate Uganda gorilla trekking, gorilla trekking in Uganda, and Uganda gorilla tours for a complete wildlife adventure.

Other Parks to Combine with Safaris to Queen Elizabeth National Park and Semuliki NP 

Travelers can add:

• Kibale Forest National Park (For chimpanzee safaris in Uganda)
• Bwindi Impenetrable National Park (For Uganda gorilla tours/gorilla trekking safaris in Uganda)
• Lake Mburo National Park (For walking safaris in Uganda)
• Murchison Falls National Park (For remarkable boating trips)
• Mgahinga Gorilla National Park (For gorillas and golden monkeys tracking)
• Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary (For Rhino Tracking adventures on Foot)

Combining destinations enhances safaris in Uganda, Africa, and creates a fuller experience.

Conclusion

The UK’s removal of its travel advisory on Queen Elizabeth and Semuliki National Park marks a significant milestone for Uganda’s tourism recovery.

With improved safety, vibrant wildlife, diverse activities, and community involvement, these parks offer some of the best opportunities for Uganda safari tours.

For travellers seeking authentic wilderness experiences, now is the perfect time to explore Uganda’s beauty and enjoy safe, unforgettable adventures in the Pearl of Africa.

Email us now and let us help you tailor the best itinerary to go see these wildlife safari parks in Uganda and create lasting memories!