Kibale National Park is the largest and most accessible rainforest in Uganda, it is also home to an astounding 13 primate species, including the rare red colobus and L’Hoest’s monkey.
The possibility of trekking habituated chimps, though, is Kibale’s main draw. These endearing primates, which are more closely related to humans than any other living thing, are a delightful sight to observe as they dispute and play in fruiting trees.
Botanists and butterfly enthusiasts will find much to enjoy on a network of shaded forest trails, and birders will be in for a treat with 335 species reported.
Botanists and butterfly enthusiasts will find much to enjoy on a network of shaded forest trails, and birders will be in for a treat with 335 species reported.
Kibale National Park is Uganda’s grandest and most diverse expanses of tropical forest. On an elevated plateau, the northern and center portions of the park are mostly covered in forest, with a few spots of grassland and wetland intermingled Uganda Wildlife Authority
Other terrestrial mammals in the park include buffalo, enormous forest hogs, and a half dozen different antelope species. The secretive forest elephant, which is smaller and hairier than its savannah version, enters the built area of the park on occasion.
GETTING TO KIBALE NATIONAL PARK
Fort Portal lies 320km from Kampala along a mostly surfaced direct road or an hour’s drive from Kasese (near QENP). Kanyanchu Visitors Centre, 35km from Fort Portal, is reached via a dirt road and is accessible on public transport
What to do In Kibale National Park
Chimp tracking and other guided forest walks, even night walks. Birders shouldn’t miss Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, a superb community development fringing the park. A field of beautiful crater lakes lies between Fort Portal and Kibale Forest.
When to Visit Kibale National Park
Any time of year
Accommodation in and around Kibale National Park
Primate Lodge (former Kanyanchu rest Camp), with a luxury tented camp and upmarket lodge nearby. Budget lodges at Bigodi, the crater lakes, and Fort Portal.