This study investigated the effect of local community engagement on sustainable tourism in Queen Elizabeth National Park (QENP), Uganda. The research was guided by three specific objectives: to assess community participation in tourism planning, to examine the impact of benefit-sharing mechanisms on local livelihoods, and to evaluate the role of cultural heritage promotion in sustainable tourism development. A descriptive correlational research design was adopted, and data were collected from 245 respondents comprising park management officials, local community members, tour operators, and Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) staff using structured questionnaires and interview guides. Findings revealed a strong positive and statistically significant relationship between local community engagement and sustainable tourism outcomes (r = 0.712, p < 0.05). Multiple regression analysis indicated that community participation, benefit-sharing, and cultural heritage promotion collectively accounted for 68.4% of the variance in sustainable tourism (R² = 0.684). The study concluded that meaningful community engagement is a critical driver of sustainable tourism in QENP and recommended the formulation of inclusive tourism policies, equitable revenue-sharing frameworks, and cultural heritage preservation programs to bolster long-term sustainability.