Domestic Tourism Strategy: Uganda’s Push to Sustain Queen Elizabeth National Park

The Ugandan government is intensifying efforts to bolster domestic tourism in Queen Elizabeth National Park, aiming to reduce reliance on international arrivals and ensure year-round economic stability for the hospitality sector. Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, Doreen S. Katusiime, recently conducted an on-site assessment of park infrastructure to evaluate how local engagement can bridge the revenue gap during low-season periods.

Why is Domestic Tourism Vital for Uganda’s Parks?

Domestic tourism acts as a critical buffer against the inherent volatility of the global travel industry. According to the Ministry of Tourism, Wildlife and Antiquities, international tourism arrivals in Uganda are subject to seasonal fluctuations, often leaving high-end lodges with low occupancy rates for several months of the year. By encouraging Ugandans to visit protected areas, the government hopes to maintain steady revenue streams that support conservation efforts and local community livelihoods. Currently, domestic travelers represent a significant growth market, as they account for a smaller fraction of total park revenue compared to foreign visitors. Strengthening this segment is a core component of the national “Tulambule” campaign, which promotes internal travel to support local enterprises.

What is the Current State of Infrastructure in Queen Elizabeth National Park?

Queen Elizabeth National Park remains the cornerstone of Uganda’s safari circuit, hosting over 85,000 visitors annually, which accounts for approximately 12% to 15% of the nation’s total park tourism arrivals. During her visit, Doreen S. Katusiime inspected key facilities including Mweya Safari Lodge, Acacia Wilderness, and Elephant Plains. While these lodges offer diverse experiences, occupancy levels often mirror international travel patterns, dropping significantly outside of peak months. The Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) notes that park occupancy typically peaks between 65% and 80% during high seasons. The government’s recent assessment focuses on whether current pricing models and service offerings are sufficiently tailored to the domestic market, which often requires different value propositions than those marketed to international tourists.

How Does the Kazinga Channel Drive Tourism Value?

The Kazinga Channel is the park’s primary geographical draw, serving as a 32-kilometer natural waterway that links Lake Edward and Lake George. It is globally recognized for supporting one of the highest concentrations of hippopotamuses in the world, alongside more than 600 bird species. For the Ministry of Tourism, the channel represents an accessible entry point for domestic visitors. Unlike complex trekking expeditions that require specialized equipment, boat cruises provide a high-value, low-barrier experience suitable for families and local groups. Enhancing the visibility of these specific attractions is part of a broader strategy to ensure that Uganda’s tourism sector—which contributes over $1 billion to the national economy—remains resilient against external economic shocks.

Quick Facts: Queen Elizabeth National Park

What Happens Next for Uganda’s Tourism Sector?

The government is expected to continue its push for domestic engagement through targeted marketing and policy adjustments. By fostering a culture of local exploration, the Ministry aims to stabilize the hospitality sector’s revenue, ensuring that lodges and local tour operators can sustain operations throughout the year. Future efforts will likely focus on improving domestic accessibility and creating more inclusive travel packages, ensuring that the economic benefits of wildlife conservation are felt more deeply within the Ugandan population.