Uganda prides in holding one of the only two populations of tree – climbing lions in the whole world. The Ishasha region, located approximately 432 kilometers southwest of the capital city of Uganda – Kampala in Queen Elizabeth National Park is habitat to the internationally famed tree climbing lions and is exceptional yet very famous because of its mystifying population of the tree-climbing lions which have been a highlight for most tourists visiting this park. There are not more than 2 populations in whole world of such lions that do actually climb trees as one of their day after day behavior. Apart from the Ishasha sector, the other population is found in Lake Manyara National Park in the Southern part of Tanzania and Serengeti in particular.

It is believed that these lions climb trees as a way of protecting themselves from the biting tsetse flies on the ground level, escape from the heat on the ground and enjoy the cool breeze, or take a good look at the surface as they prey for their hunt. The Lions are normally seen lazily lying up within the branches of the huge fig trees as they stare down at the numerous Uganda Kobs that graze in the open Ishasha plains – and these are actually the main prey to these lions. The beauty about these Sycamore Fig trees and the Acacia trees is that they provide enough shelter to the tree climbing lions that at times it becomes tricky to see them at a distance, more so they act as shelter during the rainy season and are thick enough to give support to the lions. Most important about the lions in Ishasha is the fact that the manes of the males are black.

Taking a game drive in the Ishasha region will reward you with a life time memorable experience of encountering these Lions resting on the tree branches as well as sights of other animals such as the tree climbing leopards. These tree climbing lions have continuously become Uganda’s most fascinating attraction since more tourist have shown interest in seeing the lions, to find out why and what is so special about them. Do not miss out on this amazing and fascinating experience on your tour to Uganda.