If you’re planning a safari to Uganda, few wildlife experiences compare to Lion and leopard tracking in Queen Elizabeth National Park. This activity offers visitors a rare chance to follow Africa’s most elusive predators with expert researchers, learning about their behaviour while contributing directly to conservation.

What is Lion and Leopard Tracking?

Lion and leopard tracking is a guided conservation experience led by the Uganda Wildlife Authority and the Uganda Carnivore Program. Unlike standard game drives, this activity focuses specifically on locating, identifying, and monitoring lions and leopards that have been fitted with radio collars.

Using specialized tracking equipment, researchers communicate with your guide to pinpoint the real-time location of these big cats. This allows you to get closer, stay longer, and understand their daily movements in a way normal safaris simply cannot offer.

Where Does the Experience Take Place?

The activity is conducted in the Kasenyi Plains and Mweya Peninsula of Queen Elizabeth National Park. These open savannah landscapes are famous for high predator densities, especially the Ishasha tree-climbing lions and the park’s secretive leopards.

Because the cats are being actively monitored, your chances of sightings are extremely high — far better than on a regular game drive.

What Makes It Special?

Lion and leopard tracking is both thrilling and educational. During the experience you will:

• Learn how radio telemetry works

• Observe scientists collecting behavioural data

• Understand predator–prey relationships

• Hear how human–wildlife conflict is managed

• See lions or leopards at closer range for extended periods

It’s not just about photos — it’s about understanding how these animals survive and how tourism supports their protection.

When Is the Best Time to Go?

Tracking sessions usually run early in the morning or late afternoon, when predators are most active. The best months for Lion and leopard tracking are during the dry seasons:

• June to September

• December to February

During these months, vegetation is shorter and wildlife is easier to spot.

What Does It Cost?

This is a premium experience. As of recent seasons, the permit costs around USD 100 per person in addition to the normal park entry fee. Spaces are limited to protect the animals and ensure quality, so booking in advance is essential.

What Should You Bring?

• Neutral-coloured clothing

• A hat and sunscreen

• Binoculars and a camera with zoom lens

• Plenty of water

• Patience – wildlife is never guaranteed

Why It’s Worth It

Lion and leopard tracking is one of Uganda’s most rewarding safari activities. You are not only seeing wildlife — you are actively contributing to conservation, research, and community protection programs.

For travellers who want a deeper connection to Africa’s big cats, this is more than a safari. It is a once-in-a-lifetime conservation adventure.