You are currently viewing KIBALE FOREST NATIONAL PARK

KIBALE FOREST NATIONAL PARK

A Haven for Chimpanzees and Nature Lovers

Located in western Uganda, Kibale Forest National Park spans 795 square kilometers and is approximately 348 kilometers from Kampala, the capital city. This tropical rainforest is renowned for its chimpanzee trekking experiences, with around 1500 chimpanzees calling the park home.

Attractions

  • Chimpanzees: As our closest relatives, chimpanzees share 98.7% of their DNA with humans. These intelligent primates live in communities of up to 100 individuals, with males typically staying in their birth community and females often migrating.
  • Mpanga Falls: A breathtaking waterfall formed by the Mpanga River, which flows into Lake George and features the largest gorge in Africa surrounded by lush tropical rainforests.
  • Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary: A haven for birdwatchers, this sanctuary is home to over 40 bird species and offers guided walks through its 4.5-kilometer trail system.

Activities

  • Chimpanzee Trekking: Get up close and personal with habituated chimpanzees, observing their behavior and habitat.
  • Guided Nature Walks: Explore the forest with a game ranger, spotting various bird species and learning about the ecosystem.
  • Bird Watching: Spot species like the hairy-breasted barbet, yellow-billed barbet, and black-crowned waxbill.

Access and Accommodations

  • Getting There: Reach Kibale Forest National Park by driving from Kampala (around 5-6 hours) or flying into Kasese airstrip and then driving to the park.
  • Accommodations: Choose from various options, including:
  • Mantana Tented Camp
  • Primate Lodge
  • Kibale Luxury Safari Tents
  • Forest Cottages
  • Sky Tree House

Best Time to Visit

The park is accessible year-round, but the dry seasons (December to February and June to September) are ideal for trekking and wildlife viewing.

Wildlife and Vegetation

  • Mammals: Kibale Forest National Park is home to 71 mammal species, including elephants, buffaloes, leopards, and giant forest hogs.
  • Birds: The park boasts 375 bird species, including the blue-headed bee-eater and Nahan’s francolin.
  • Vegetation: The park’s tropical rainforest features a diverse array of plant species, with over 351 tree species recorded.

Leave a Reply