Tucked away in the remote southern sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park, Ishasha Wilderness Camp is a serene eco-lodge that captures the true spirit of an African safari. This elegant tented camp lies along the tranquil banks of the Ntungwe River, surrounded by unspoiled wilderness and abundant wildlife.
For travelers seeking comfort without losing touch with nature, Ishasha Wilderness Camp offers a perfect blend of luxury, privacy, and adventure — with the added excitement of being in the best area in Uganda to see the famous tree-climbing lions.
A Prime Location in the Wild South of Queen Elizabeth National Park
Ishasha Wilderness Camp enjoys a secluded location deep inside the Ishasha sector, a less-visited but highly rewarding region of the park. The lodge’s setting beside the river allows guests to hear the sounds of hippos grunting at night and watch elephants crossing the water right from the comfort of their verandas.
Its proximity to the park’s open savanna plains gives guests quick access to daily game drives in search of lions, leopards, topi, buffalo, and countless bird species. The area’s remoteness makes it feel like a private safari experience — far from the busier northern regions of the park.
Elegant Safari Tents That Redefine Wilderness Comfort
Accommodation at Ishasha Wilderness Camp consists of ten spacious, en-suite canvas tents, each raised on a wooden platform with a thatched roof to blend naturally into the environment.
Each tent features:
- A large private verandah with river views
- Comfortable beds draped in mosquito nets
- Solar-powered lighting and hot showers
- Flush toilets and eco-friendly amenities
The décor combines safari elegance with local craftsmanship, using natural materials and soft, earthy tones. The open design keeps you close to nature while maintaining full privacy and comfort.
The main lounge and dining area are set beneath a large thatched roof, overlooking the river. Here, guests enjoy delicious meals prepared with fresh local ingredients, paired with fine wines or chilled drinks.
Evenings often end around a campfire under the stars, where guests share stories while listening to the night sounds of the African bush — a truly magical experience.
Experiences at Ishasha Wilderness Camp
- Game Drives and Tree-Climbing Lions
Ishasha is world-famous for its tree-climbing lions, a rare behavior seen only in a few places in Africa. These majestic cats often lounge on the broad fig tree branches, especially during the heat of the day. Guided game drives with experienced rangers offer excellent photographic opportunities and a deeper understanding of this unique ecosystem.
Besides lions, the plains teem with elephants, topi, buffaloes, waterbucks, and Uganda kobs, while leopards and hyenas are also occasionally spotted.
- Birdwatching Paradise
The Ishasha area is part of the Albertine Rift, a bird-rich region boasting more than 600 species. From the camp and along the Ntungwe River, guests can spot African fish eagles, African jacanas, and colorful bee-eaters. Birding walks with a local guide can be arranged for enthusiasts seeking rare species.
- Riverbank Relaxation
Between game drives, guests can unwind on their private verandas or at the camp’s shaded lounge overlooking the river. It’s common to see elephants, hippos, and a variety of birds passing by — a peaceful moment that connects you deeply to the wild surroundings.
- Community and Conservation Visits
Ishasha Wilderness Camp works closely with local communities and conservation projects. Guests can visit nearby villages or schools to learn about daily life and see how responsible tourism supports conservation through education and employment.
Eco-Friendly Ethos and Conservation Commitment
Ishasha Wilderness Camp is built on strong eco-tourism principles. The camp operates on solar power, uses environmentally safe systems for waste management, and employs staff from nearby communities.
By staying here, guests directly contribute to wildlife conservation and community development projects around Queen Elizabeth National Park. The lodge’s philosophy is simple — protect the wilderness, uplift the community, and offer guests a genuinely sustainable safari experience.
When to Visit Ishasha Wilderness Camp
The best time to visit Ishasha Wilderness Camp is during the dry seasons — June to September and December to February — when wildlife viewing is at its peak and the roads are more accessible. However, the green season from March to May brings lush vegetation and excellent birdwatching opportunities with fewer visitors.
Getting There
Ishasha Wilderness Camp is about 2 hours from the Mweya area of Queen Elizabeth National Park and 4–5 hours from Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, making it a perfect stopover for travelers connecting a safari with gorilla trekking.
Access is possible by road or by scheduled flights to Kihihi or Mweya Airstrips, followed by a short scenic drive to the camp.
Why Stay at Ishasha Wilderness Camp
- Exclusive location inside the park’s most scenic sector
- Close encounters with tree-climbing lions and diverse wildlife
- Luxurious yet eco-conscious safari tents
- Excellent food, personalized service, and tranquil atmosphere
- Seamless combination with gorilla trekking in Bwindi
At Ishasha Wilderness Camp, every sunrise brings the call of the wild — a reminder that true luxury lies in simplicity, serenity, and nature’s rhythm.
Book with Luxland Africa Vacations
At Luxland Africa Vacations, we curate exceptional journeys that combine luxury, authenticity, and conservation. Our expert team handles every detail — from park entry permits and guided safaris to personalized stays at Ishasha Wilderness Camp.
Whether you’re on a romantic honeymoon, a wildlife photography trip, or a full Uganda safari adventure, we’ll ensure your stay at Ishasha Wilderness Camp is comfortable, seamless, and unforgettable.
Book your Uganda safari with Luxland Africa Vacations and experience the untamed beauty of Queen Elizabeth National Park — where the lions climb trees, and the wilderness feels like home.