The Ishasha sector is comprised of the riverine forests. Open savannah grassland with acacia and fig tree species and is in the Southern part of Queen Elizabeth National park. Queen Elizabeth National Park is the second largest park in Uganda. The most famous and the Ishasha sector is top of the reasons for its fame. Ishasha stands out for having a delightful landscape. gives you a clear view of the wildlife, unlike other parts of the park. It is also a famous destination in the park due to various attractions in it, some of which include the following;
The tree-climbing lions
Ishasha is the only place in Uganda where you will find the tree climbing lions. They are a rare species of lions that climb trees to spot their next prey, to cool off or to relax. In Africa, these lions are exclusive to East Africa namely. Queen Elizabeth National Park in Uganda and Lake Manyara National Park in Tanzania. The lions will be seen lying lazily on the acacia and fig trees, looking down on the antelopes grazing in the open savannah grasslands although they also climb up to run away from the disturbing tsetse flies on the ground. Tree climbing lions have a black manes (the males) and can best be seen during game drives in the park.
Other animals
During game drives, more so the ones taken in the afternoons, other animals can be seen besides lions, on the open savannah. Among these include the Kob, elephants, buffaloes, waterbucks and hippos seen near the Ishasha River giving visitors a pleasant moment during the safari. Also, there is an extensive number of bird species at the park, some of which can be seen at the Ishasha sector on Lake Edward and the Ishasha River. Bird lovers will be able to spot birds such as the kingfisher, the African green pigeon, white headed barbet, grey woodpecker, black coucal and many more.
When to visit the Ishasha sector
Ishasha sector can be visited at any time of the year since the park is also open all year through. However, the best time is during the dry season. In the months of June to September and December to February. In these months, the grass is shorter giving one a good view of the wildlife grazing. The lions will be seen climbing the trees so as to cool off, plenty of birds can be spotted roaming. Game drives are more fun as the routes are easily accessible.
Accommodation in the Ishasha sector
Ishasha offers luxury, budget and midrange accommodation from where visitors can stay during their safari. The lodges mentioned below offer good quality services. Services such as comfortable beds, bed and breakfast, good food, bar and restaurant and among the accommodation facilities include the following; Ishasha jungle lodge, Enjojo lodge, Topi lodge and many more.
Getting to Ishasha sector
The Ishasha sector can be accessed by either road or air transport.
By road- you will drive or be driven from Kampala city. Then via Mubende through Fortportal, Queen Elizabeth National Park and the Ishasha. It is about a 9 hours’ drive.
By air- a booking from Entebbe International Airport is to be made to Kihihi. Or Mweya Airstrip in the park, then to Ishasha sector
