Guest dining near an elephant at The River Station, Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda

The River Station

Queen Elizabeth National Park

The River Station is uniquely positioned within the reserve area of Queen Elizabeth National Park, making it the only lodge located inside this section of the park. This exclusivity translates into a quieter, more private experience, with wildlife encounters often unfolding close to camp. Set along the river, the lodge feels both remote and refined, with rooms that include private plunge pools overlooking the water, offering a sense of space and seclusion that is rare in this area.

One of the most distinctive aspects of staying at The River Station is the potential to see chimpanzees during a game drive. Because the chimpanzee tracking routes run along the Kyambura Gorge and intersect with the savanna, chimpanzees sometimes emerge from the forest to feed during certain times of year, making sightings possible from a vehicle—an experience that is highly unusual in East Africa. When you plan with me, I can give you the best chance to see this unique experience. Game drives in the surrounding area are complemented by river-based activities, including a traditional dhow used for slow cruises that reveal birdlife, hippos, and the rhythms of life along the water.

What I particularly value about The River Station is how it blends exclusivity with variety. Time here can be spent moving between land and water, wildlife viewing and quiet moments back at the lodge, without ever feeling rushed. Evenings often end back in the privacy of your suite, cooling off in the plunge pool and listening to the sounds of the river after dark. For travelers looking for a distinctive and quietly luxurious stay in Queen Elizabeth National Park, The River Station offers an experience that is difficult to replicate elsewhere.

The River Station is recommended for its private location within the reserve area of Queen Elizabeth National Park and its unique wildlife access. As the only lodge in this part of the park, it offers a rare combination of privacy, river-based experiences, and the chance to see chimpanzees during a game drive when they move along the edge of the Kyambura Gorge.

Notable Species

  • Elephants
  • Lions
  • Buffalo
  • Hippo
  • Kob
  • Leopard
  • Hyena
  • Chimpanzees

Suggested Itineraries

The River Station, Queen Elizabeth National Park — photo 1
The River Station, Queen Elizabeth National Park — photo 2
The River Station, Queen Elizabeth National Park — photo 3
The River Station, Queen Elizabeth National Park — photo 4

Thinking about staying here?

Tell me when you'd like to go and who's traveling, and I'll check availability, perks where available, and how it fits a wider trip. It starts with a 20-minute planning call; full trip planning is a $250 fee, credited in full toward your booked trip and non-refundable if you don’t book. I brief the property before you arrive — that's what the fee funds.

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