Ogenrwot Brian
Situated in the remote southern reach of Queen Elizabeth National Park along the border with the Democratic Republic of Congo, the Ishasha Sector is internationally famous as one of only two places in Africa where lions routinely climb trees. Resting high among the broad limbs of ancient sycamore fig and acacia trees to escape ground heat and biting insects, these unique big cats offer one of East Africa's most iconic wildlife encounters.
Why the Lions of Ishasha Climb Trees
While most African lions remain firmly grounded, Ishasha's pride members have adapted to high canopy living due to several environmental factors:
Cool Breeze & Heat Relief: Midday temperatures on the open savannah frequently exceed 28°C (82°F). Climbing 4 to 8 metres into shading leaf canopies allows lions to catch cooling cross-breezes.
Escaping Biting Insects: High-altitude limbs keep lions above dense ground swarms of biting tsetse flies and mosquitoes that breeding in short grasses.
Strategic Hunting Vantage: Elevated branches provide an unobstructed 360-degree view across short-grass plains where herds of Uganda kobs and topis graze.
Where and How to Spot Them: Primary Tracking Circuits
The Southern Circuit: The most reliable tracking loop in the sector. Experienced driver-guides scan the lower fork branches of broad sycamore fig trees lining open grassland tracks.
Edward Flats: A remote wetland-adjacent tracking zone off the main loop where large herds of buffalo and Uganda kob gather, frequently attracting hunting pride members.
Ntungwe River & Northern Loop: Dense woodland along the riverbanks where lions retreat during extreme heat or after heavy overnight feeding.
How to Get to Ishasha Sector
By Road from Northern Queen Elizabeth Park: A scenic 2 to 3-hour game-drive transfer south from Mweya or Kazinga Channel along the Katunguru-Buhoma road.
By Road from Bwindi Impenetrable Forest: Located just 2 to 3 hours north of Buhoma Sector (Bwindi), making Ishasha the ideal midpoint bridge between gorilla trekking and savannah game drives.
By Air: Daily scheduled domestic flights connect Entebbe Airport to Kihihi Airstrip (a 45-minute drive from Ishasha gate).
Real Guide Field Story
In August 2026, Senior Specialist Brian guided an American photography duo through Ishasha during a mid-afternoon drive along the Southern Circuit. After scanning several empty acacia groves, Brian navigated toward an ancient sycamore fig tree standing near an open clearing. Suspended six metres above the ground across three thick parallel limbs were four adult lionesses and two young sub-adults, resting peacefully in the shade. The guests spent over an hour capturing crisp, uninterrupted photographs of lion paws and tails dangling through the green foliage against the blue savannah sky.
Ishasha Sector Safari At-a-Glance
| Feature | Details & Specifications |
| Location | Southern Queen Elizabeth National Park (Kanungu/Rukungiri Districts) |
| Preferred Trees | Sycamore Fig Trees (Ficus sycomorus) & Acacia Trees |
| Prime Sightings Hours | Midday to late afternoon (11:00 AM – 4:00 PM) when ground heat peaks |
| Recommended Vehicles | Custom 4x4 Land Cruisers with pop-up roofs for elevated branch photography |
| Key Associated Wildlife | Topi, Uganda Kob, Forest Elephants, Cape Buffaloes, Waterbucks |
Frequently Asked Questions
Are tree-climbing lion sightings guaranteed in Ishasha?
While Ishasha offers the highest probability of tree-climbing lion sightings in East Africa, they remain wild animals free to move across huge territories. Booking a multi-drive stay or passing through with an experienced local guide maximizes sighting chances above 85 percent.
What is the best time of day to see lions in trees?
Lions generally hunt on the ground during cool morning and night hours. They typically climb into tree branches between 11:00 AM and 4:00 PM to rest and escape the peak midday sun.
Can I combine Ishasha with gorilla trekking in Bwindi?
Yes. Ishasha’s position directly on the border between Queen Elizabeth National Park and Bwindi Impenetrable National Park makes it the single most convenient safari bridge for combined wildlife itineraries.
Plan Your Ishasha Safari With Wander and Wonder Tours
Ready to witness the famous tree-climbing lions of Ishasha up close? Wander and Wonder Tours Uganda coordinates custom 4x4 safari vehicles, expert driver-guides, luxury wilderness lodges, and seamless safari transfers connecting Queen Elizabeth to Bwindi gorilla treks.
Tailored Safari Routes: Direct combination of tree-climbing lions, Kazinga Channel boat cruises, and mountain gorilla treks.
Flexible Payment Options: Interest free 3, 6, or 12 month payment plans.
24/7 Dedicated Support: Direct WhatsApp assistance from safari specialists in Uganda and the UK.
Contact Us Today
Email: info@wanderandwonderug.com | bookings@wanderandwonderug.com
WhatsApp UK: +44 7826 805254 | WhatsApp Uganda: +256 742 603325