On the southern plains of Queen Elizabeth National Park, lions climb. Draped across the low limbs of ancient fig trees, they watch the herds below with unhurried curiosity. It is one of nature's rarest performances — witnessed almost nowhere else on earth.
Only two lion populations in the world habitually climb trees — those of Ishasha and Lake Manyara in Tanzania. Biologists still debate why: escape from tsetse flies, cooler breezes above the plains, or simply a passed-down cultural habit. Whatever the reason, the sight of a full-maned lion asleep on a fig branch is unforgettable.
Ishasha is the quieter, wilder southern sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park. Its open savannah is dotted with candelabra euphorbia and fig trees, and grazed by topi, Uganda kob, buffalo and elephant — the very reason the lions have chosen these branches as their throne.
Most Ishasha journeys begin or end with a boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel — a slow drift past bathing elephants, hippo pods and dazzling waterbirds. It is Uganda's classic safari afternoon.
One of only two places on earth to see lions habitually climb trees.
Ishasha remains one of Uganda's quietest, most exclusive safari sectors.
A slow boat safari past hundreds of elephants, hippos and pelicans.
Long unhurried sightings — perfect for photographers of every level.
Just a 3-hour drive from Bwindi — combine with gorilla trekking seamlessly.
Golden light spills across the plains as prides begin to stir.
Drive or fly into Mweya airstrip. Afternoon cruise on the Kazinga Channel among elephants and hippos.
Full day of game drives across the Ishasha sector, searching the fig trees for lions and photographing the vast southern plains.
Optional chimpanzee tracking in the 'Valley of Apes' before a slow lunch and sunset drive.
Extend south for gorilla trekking or north to Kibale's chimpanzees — Ishasha connects both effortlessly.
June–September and January–February — dry season, when the grasses are low and wildlife concentrates around water. Green-season months (March–May, November) are lush and quiet, ideal for photographers.
Fly to Mweya or Kasese airstrip (1 hour from Entebbe), or drive 6–7 hours west from Kampala through the Rift Valley. Ishasha pairs beautifully with Bwindi (3 hours south) and Kibale Forest (3 hours north).
They live in the Ishasha sector — the southern part of Queen Elizabeth National Park in western Uganda. It is one of only two places in the world where lions habitually climb trees.
Scientists still debate it. The leading theories are escape from biting tsetse flies on the ground, cooler breezes above the plains, and a learned cultural behaviour passed between prides.
Late morning through early afternoon, when the heat drives lions up into the shade of the fig trees. Sightings are possible year-round but dry-season months (June–September, January–February) are most reliable.
Yes — Ishasha is only a 3-hour drive from Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, making it the most natural pairing with gorilla trekking on any Uganda safari.
Yes. It is one of Uganda's flagship national parks with a strong ranger presence, well-managed lodges and paved main access. All Trek Wild Uganda safaris include private guiding and 24/7 support.
Tell us how you like to travel. We'll design a journey that feels entirely yours.
