Is Queen Elizabeth Park Safe for Tourists?
In 2023, the Question was – How SAFE is it to visit Queen Elizabeth Park? The Reality?
How SAFE is it to visit Queen Elizabeth Park, one of Uganda’s most famous National Parks? That question comes up time and
time again in the light of the kidnapping that made headlines all over the world of Kimberly Sue Endicott and her driver (set free 5-days later) in the southern Ishasha area of Queen Elizabeth Park on April 2, 2019, as they were on a late afternoon Game Drive without a Ranger Escort (not required but recommended at that time)
Tourists to Uganda and visitors to Queen Elizabeth Park are looking for a safe and secure experience. They are not Indiana Jones kind of Adventurist, and that is undoubtedly everyone involved in Ugandan Tourism would agree with, and that is what you find presently.
How SAFE is it to visit Queen Elizabeth Park? – Safe and Secure Visits to Queen Elizabeth Park are the norm and not the exception. The security level in Queen Elizabeth has been enhanced beyond what visitors see as they are on a Game Drive in Ishasha or the Kasenyi Plains, on a Boat Ride on the Kazinga Channel, or hiking down into the Kyambura Gorge or in Maramagambo Forest. It is that behind-the-scenes level of Security beyond what Rangers offer visitors, such as Patrols by the Ugandan Military, the added Security at the Border with the Democratic Republic of Congo, and even overhead as Drones are employed.
Queen Elizabeth is one of the safest parks in Africa; if it changes, we will post it here. Always check our Facebook Page for the latest Safety and Security updates.
How SAFE is it to visit Queen Elizabeth Park in Uganda
General National Parks Security Information that applies to Queen Elizabeth Park
Tragedy strikes on October 17-2023, as Honeymoon Couple and their driver are killed in Queen Elizabeth Park
According to the Ugandan government, the ADF (Allied Democratic Forces) is believed to be responsible for
the tragic murder of David and Celia Barlow, a British and South African couple, as well as their Ugandan guide Eric Ayai, during a safari in Queen Elizabeth National Park near the Border with the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) on October 17. The extremist group ISIL (Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant) claimed responsibility for the attack, referring to the victims as “three Christian tourists” who were reportedly killed with machine guns.
Uganda has committed to bringing the perpetrators to Justice in response to the incident. The government recently announced a successful joint operation involving the military and intelligence agencies, which resulted in the elimination of the ADF squad responsible for the violence. The captured commander of the group is expected to stand trial. It was disclosed by the Ugandan military spokesperson, Deo Akiiki, that the apprehended militia leader was found in possession of the belongings of the slain tourists as well as the ID card of their Ugandan guide.
The ADF has a history of opposing the Ugandan government since the 1990s but was eventually defeated by the national army. Subsequently, the group retreated into the DRC, where it became involved in illicit activities such as timber, gold, and agricultural product trades. The ADF pledged allegiance to ISIL four years ago and is designated as a “terrorist organization” by the Ugandan government.
In a separate attack in June, the ADF carried out a devastating assault on a high school near the DRC border, resulting in the tragic loss of 42 lives, including 37 students. President Yoweri Museveni has consistently urged security forces to take decisive action against the ADF due to its unwavering opposition to his administration.
Response of the Ugandan Government to the October 17 attack on Tourist Couple on Honeymoon and their driver.
Ensuring safety in Uganda is a top priority for both tourists and Ugandans. The government, along with agencies like the Uganda Wildlife Authority, Uganda People’s Defense Forces, and the Police, has taken significant steps to create a secure environment.
Transparency is key. The government provides accurate and detailed information about incidents, including relevant affiliations or motivations, to foster understanding and enable appropriate actions.
Collaboration with law enforcement and security forces is vital. Proactive intelligence gathering, increased patrols, and advanced security technologies are implemented nationwide to prevent and respond to potential threats.
Community engagement is encouraged. Strong relationships between local communities, law enforcement, and tourism stakeholders promote reporting suspicious activities and sharing vital information.
Ongoing training and capacity building for security personnel ensure they are equipped to address security challenges swiftly and effectively.
International cooperation plays a crucial role. Partnerships with other countries and organizations facilitate intelligence exchange and collaboration to counter radicalization and terrorism.
The ultimate goal is to create a safe environment for all. Uganda is committed to proactive measures, refining security strategies, and adapting to emerging threats.
By implementing these comprehensive measures, Uganda aims to provide peace of mind to its citizens and visitors, ensuring a welcoming and secure destination for everyone.
How SAFE is it to visit Queen Elizabeth Park in Uganda
Follow the Rules in Uganda’s National Parks and Preserves:
Parks are under the jurisdiction of the Uganda Wildlife Authority, gardens are well-regulated, and the rules are strictly enforced. Besides Uganda Wildlife Authority’s rules, we have added some of our own to keep you safe and secure on your Safari in Uganda.
No movement on foot without an armed Ranger escort outside of the park; stay with your driver-guide
- No Driving in parks from 7:30 pm until 6:30 am.
- No, they are wandering away from a Lodge located in the park or at the edge of it. There are wild animals, plus it avoids contacting poachers.
- No Game Drives without an armed ranger on board the vehicle
- Have at least a copy of your passport in a daypack for all activities.
- Boat Safaris, we encourage the use of a life vest.
- On a Family Safari, never let children be unattended.
- Dress for the occasion – gorilla, chimpanzee trek, hike, volcano climb – follow our suggestions. They are for your well-being.
- Use a porter whenever available, such as for Gorilla Trekking.
- Do not wear camouflage clothing – it gets unnecessary attention and is not recommended.
- Sitting on top of vehicles during Game Drives is not allowed for your safety.
- Nocturnal Game Drives are only conducted with Uganda Wildlife Vehicles except where UWA authorizes a lodge to do so.
How SAFE is it to visit Queen Elizabeth Park in Uganda
When going on a safari in Uganda, remember that no one can guarantee your safety. Wildlife encounters and travel in natural environments always carry inherent risks.
- To stay safe, follow experienced guides and reputable tour operators. Research and choose operators such as Kabiza Wilderness Safaris, prioritizing safety measures, adhering to park rules, and maintaining a respectful distance from wildlife. Consider travel insurance for emergencies. Prioritize your safety by making informed decisions, being cautious, and following professional guidance.
