Craters Campsite - Queen Elizabeth National Park

Craters Campsite is a camp near Queen Elizabeth National Park.

Location
Queen Elizabeth National Park, Western Rift Valley & Crater Lakes, Uganda, East Africa
Coordinates
-0.246748, 30.084166
Activities
camp

PlnrScore: 29/100

Wildlife Near This Lodge

668 species observed within 20 km, 41 mammals, 319 birds.

  • Common Hippopotamus (Mammalia, 186 observations)
  • African Savanna Elephant (Mammalia, 184 observations)
  • African Fish-Eagle (Aves, 177 observations)
  • Waterbuck (Mammalia, 160 observations)
  • African Buffalo (Mammalia, 153 observations)
  • Kob (Mammalia, 143 observations)
  • Pied Kingfisher (Aves, 141 observations)
  • Nile Monitor (Reptilia, 131 observations)
  • Nile Crocodile (Reptilia, 125 observations)
  • Yellow-billed Stork (Aves, 111 observations)

Best Time to Visit Craters Campsite

The best months to visit Craters Campsite are January, February, March, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Great, temperature 23.97°C, rainfall 17.6mm, sunshine 10.5 hrs, humidity 63.5%
  • February: Great, temperature 24.87°C, rainfall 23.7mm, sunshine 10.4 hrs, humidity 59.9%
  • March: Great, temperature 23.96°C, rainfall 86.9mm, sunshine 10.4 hrs, humidity 69.6%
  • April: Good, temperature 23.01°C, rainfall 120.8mm, sunshine 10.4 hrs, humidity 77%
  • May: Great, temperature 23.15°C, rainfall 95.1mm, sunshine 11.2 hrs, humidity 75.6%
  • June: Great, temperature 23.6°C, rainfall 20.5mm, sunshine 11.2 hrs, humidity 63.2%
  • July: Great, temperature 23.94°C, rainfall 19.7mm, sunshine 10.6 hrs, humidity 56.7%
  • August: Great, temperature 23.48°C, rainfall 55.2mm, sunshine 10.7 hrs, humidity 66.6%
  • September: Great, temperature 22.78°C, rainfall 94.1mm, sunshine 10.7 hrs, humidity 75.5%
  • October: Good, temperature 22.82°C, rainfall 112.1mm, sunshine 10.5 hrs, humidity 76.2%
  • November: Good, temperature 22.13°C, rainfall 100.1mm, sunshine 9.7 hrs, humidity 80%
  • December: Great, temperature 22.94°C, rainfall 69mm, sunshine 11 hrs, humidity 73.8%

Frequently Asked Questions

What specific camping facilities and amenities are available at Craters Campsite?

Craters Campsite primarily offers spacious, designated grounds for pitching your own tent, providing a rustic yet comfortable experience. Basic shared facilities typically include clean pit latrines or flush toilets and cold water showers, ensuring essential comforts amidst the natural setting. Some sites may also feature communal fire pits for evening campfires.

How accessible is Craters Campsite to Queen Elizabeth National Park's key wildlife viewing areas?

Craters Campsite boasts a strategic location just outside the main entrance of Queen Elizabeth National Park, making it an ideal base for safari adventures. You can expect a short drive, typically within 15-30 minutes, to reach popular sectors like the Kasenyi Plains for game drives or the Mweya Peninsula for boat safaris on the Kazinga Channel.

What kind of wildlife can I expect to encounter directly around Craters Campsite itself, beyond the park boundaries?

While Craters Campsite is situated outside the national park, its close proximity means you might still experience some wildlife, particularly nocturnal species. It is not uncommon to hear the calls of hyenas or spot smaller animals like civets; however, direct sightings of large game are rare and primarily occur within the park. Always exercise caution and adhere to camp safety guidelines regarding wildlife.

What is the best time of year to stay at Craters Campsite for optimal weather and safari experiences?

The best time to visit Craters Campsite is during Uganda's dry seasons, which run from June to August and December to February. During these periods, the weather is generally sunny with minimal rainfall, making camping more comfortable and improving road conditions for game drives within Queen Elizabeth National Park. Wildlife is also easier to spot as animals gather around dwindling water sources.

Are there any specific activities or excursions organized directly from Craters Campsite, or is it purely a base for park visits?

While Craters Campsite primarily serves as a convenient and affordable base for exploring Queen Elizabeth National Park, some local guides may offer community walks or birdwatching excursions starting directly from the camp. It is advisable to inquire upon arrival or with your tour operator about any available local activities that provide insight into the surrounding area and culture. Costs for these activities are typically separate from your camping fees.

Other Safari Lodges in Queen Elizabeth National Park

Parks in Western Rift Valley & Crater Lakes

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for Uganda

Travel advisory for Uganda