Ishasha Wilderness Camp, Queens

Ishasha Wilderness Camp, Queen Elizabeth National Park

Introduction

For those seeking an authentic and intimate camping experience in Queen Elizabeth National Park, Ishasha Wilderness Camp offers a unique blend of adventure and comfort. Located in the quieter Ishasha Sector of the park, this eco-friendly camp is designed to seamlessly integrate with its natural surroundings, offering guests an immersive experience in one of Uganda’s most peaceful wilderness areas.

Nestled along the banks of the Ntungwe River, the camp provides an exclusive base for exploring the diverse wildlife and scenic beauty of Queen Elizabeth National Park. This hidden gem is perfect for nature lovers and adventure-seekers wanting a more off-the-beaten-path safari experience, combined with the charm and comfort of a luxury tented camp.

Location

  • Quiet & Secluded: The camp is located in the Ishasha Sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park, one of the park’s quieter and less-visited areas, providing a tranquil setting for guests to enjoy their stay away from the crowds.
  • Riverfront Setting: Positioned overlooking the Ntungwe River, guests are treated to stunning views of the river and the surrounding bush, creating the perfect atmosphere for relaxation and wildlife sightings.
  • Proximity to Wildlife: The Ishasha Sector is famous for its tree-climbing lions and abundant wildlife, making it a perfect spot for game drives, nature walks, and wildlife photography.

Accommodation

Ishasha Wilderness Camp offers 10 private, well-positioned tents that provide a comfortable and immersive experience in the wild. Each tent is strategically placed to offer privacy, stunning views, and a deep connection with the surrounding nature.

  • Canvas Tents:
    • The tents are designed to blend seamlessly into the landscape, with walls of canvas, thatched roofs, and wooden floors. The use of natural materials ensures that the camp maintains an eco-friendly and rustic charm, while still providing modern comforts.
    • Spacious & Comfortable: Each tent is generously sized, with comfortable beds, a writing desk, and a private bathroom featuring hot and cold running water, a shower, and eco-friendly amenities.
  • Private Verandas:
    • Every tent comes with its own private veranda, offering guests the perfect spot to unwind and enjoy the views of the river and surrounding wilderness.
    • Guests can relax on their verandas or enjoy a cup of tea or coffee as they watch the wildlife move through the camp grounds.

Dining & Culinary Experience

The dining experience at Ishasha Wilderness Camp is one of the highlights of the stay, with a focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients and excellent service. The camp’s dining options allow guests to enjoy meals in different settings, creating a personalized and memorable experience.

  • Dining Areas:
    • Main Dining Area: A comfortable dining room is available for guests who prefer to eat inside. It offers an intimate atmosphere where guests can socialize and enjoy a delicious meal.
    • Outdoor Dining: Guests can also choose to dine on the veranda, enjoying the open-air setting and the fresh breeze while overlooking the surrounding forest and river.
    • Private Tent Dining: For those looking for more privacy, meals can be served in guests’ own tents, creating a unique, intimate dining experience.
  • High-Quality Food:
    • The quality of food at Ishasha Wilderness Camp is exceptional, with chefs using locally sourced ingredients to create mouthwatering dishes that reflect the flavors of Uganda and international cuisine.
    • Meals are prepared with attention to detail, and the camp accommodates a variety of dietary preferences and requirements.

Key Features & Amenities

  1. Authentic Safari Experience:
    • Ishasha Wilderness Camp offers an authentic, tented safari experience, combining luxury with a deep connection to nature.
  2. Eco-Friendly Design:
    • Built using canvas, wood, and thatched roofs, the camp minimizes its impact on the environment and seamlessly blends into the natural landscape.
  3. Private & Secluded:
    • The camp’s remote location provides guests with privacy and a peaceful retreat, allowing for an authentic, immersive wildlife experience.
  4. Personalized Service:
    • The camp’s staff is dedicated to providing personalized service, ensuring that guests feel welcomed and comfortable throughout their stay.
  5. Exclusive Location:
    • The Ishasha Sector is home to the famous tree-climbing lions and abundant wildlife, making it an ideal location for game drives and wildlife watching.

Activities & Experiences

  1. Game Drives:
    • Ishasha Wilderness Camp offers early morning and afternoon game drives in the Ishasha Sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park. The sector is known for its tree-climbing lions and is home to a variety of other wildlife, including elephants, buffaloes, and antelope species.
    • The game drives provide guests with an opportunity to spot wildlife in the wild, guided by expert rangers.
  2. Nature Walks:
    • For those looking to get closer to nature, the camp offers nature walks, where guests can learn about the flora and fauna of the area. These walks are guided by knowledgeable naturalists who provide insights into the ecosystem of the park.
  3. Birdwatching:
    • Queen Elizabeth National Park is a haven for birdwatchers, with over 600 species of birds. The Ishasha sector is particularly rich in birdlife, and guests can enjoy guided birdwatching walks to spot species like the white-tailed lark, African fish eagle, and swamp flycatcher.
  4. Cultural Experiences:
    • The Ishasha Wilderness Camp also offers guests the chance to engage with local communities, learning about their cultures and traditions. This cultural exchange adds a deeper layer to the safari experience.

Why Choose Ishasha Wilderness Camp?

  1. Authentic, Intimate Safari Experience:
    • Ishasha Wilderness Camp offers an authentic tented safari experience, ideal for those looking to get closer to nature in a secluded and peaceful environment.
  2. Ideal for Wildlife Lovers:
    • Located in the Ishasha Sector, known for its tree-climbing lions, the camp is perfect for those interested in wildlife watching and game drives.
  3. Eco-Friendly & Sustainable:
    • The camp’s eco-conscious design ensures that it blends seamlessly into the environment, minimizing its impact on the surrounding ecosystem.
  4. Personalized, Exceptional Service:
    • Guests are treated to personalized service from the friendly, attentive staff, who ensure a memorable and comfortable stay.

Practical Information

  • Getting There:
    • By Road: Ishasha Wilderness Camp is accessible by road from Kampala (approximately 7-8 hours), with scenic routes through Uganda’s beautiful countryside.
    • By Air: Guests can fly to Mweya Airstrip or Kihihi Airstrip, followed by a short transfer to the camp.
  • Best Time to Visit:
    • The best time to visit Queen Elizabeth National Park is during the dry seasons (June to September, December to February), which offers the best conditions for wildlife viewing and game drives.
  • What to Pack:
    • Comfortable trekking shoes, lightweight clothing, camera, binoculars, sunscreen, and a hat are recommended for your stay at Ishasha Wilderness Camp.

Contact & Booking

For more information or to book your stay at Ishasha Wilderness Camp, please contact us:

Whether you’re a seasoned safari-goer or a first-time visitor to Uganda, Ishasha Wilderness Camp provides the perfect base for an authentic and unforgettable adventure in the heart of Queen Elizabeth National Park.