Kibale Forest National Park is one of the most popular national parks in Uganda. Known for its rich diversity of primates, this is the best place in Africa where tourists can see chimpanzees in their natural world.
This mainly forested park occupies 795 sq km in area, it is he primate capital of Africa. It hosts the richest density of chimpanzees per square kilometer and it is best known for its unriavlled primate safaris that cannot be compared to any other destination in Africa. There are thirteen different primate species with nine of them being diurnal and thus cab be see during day. There are four nocturnal primates that include pottos, galagos etc.
Some of the most popular primates that are present in the park include the wild chimpanzees, L’Hoest’s monkey, Black and White Colobus Monkey and Red colobus Monkey.
Explore Kibale Forest National Park
Kibale National park, home to a host of forest wildlife, is the most magnificent of Uganda’s tropical rain forests and one of the most rewarding areas to explore. Kibale boasts of primates including the localized Red Colobus and L’Hoest’s monkeys. Kibale’s major attraction is the chimpanzees, the delightful apes, which are genetically the closest to humans than to any other living creature. These can be seen swinging in the tree branches as one navigates through the tranquil forest trails.
The park is also famous as a birding destination for bird lovers, endowed with over 372 bird species including the endemic Black eared ground thrush. The 180km –long migration corridor for wildlife also harbors mammals like elusive forest elephants, buffalos, giant forest hogs and half a dozen antelope species, making it one of the most stunning parks in Uganda.
Situated in western Uganda, near the colonial Fort Portal Municipality, the park lies close to the tranquil Ndali – Kasenda crater area and is with in a half day’s drive of Queen Elizabeth, Rwenzori Mountains and Semliki National Park.
Getting there;
The 795 sq km park can be accessed form Uganda’s capital, Kampala, along a paved road via Kampala through the Queen Elizabeth National Park. While Kanyanchu Visitor centre – the primary centre for tourists activities – 36 km from Fort Portal can be reached from Kampala via a dirt road and is accessible by public transport. The park can also be reached via a dirt road and is accessible by public transport. The park can also be reached from Kampala via Mubende and Fort Portal or through Mbarara – Ibanda and Kamwenge. There is daily public transport between Kampala and Fort Portal by bus.
Chimpanzee tracking is the main activity, while birders are drawn to the park and the nearby, community –run Bigodi wetland sanctuary by a bird list of 335 species.
WHAT TO SEE IN THE PARK
Chimpanzees: The park is renowned for its great chimpanzee population, and one of the main attractions is the opportunity to observe these intelligent primates in their natural habitat. Chimpanzee tracking and habituation experiences allow you to get up close and observe their behavior, social interactions, and daily routines.
Other Primates: There are a variety of other primate species such as red Colobus monkeys, L’Hoest’s monkeys, grey-cheeked mangabeys, black-and-white Colobus monkeys, and olive baboons.
Birdwatching: With over 300 bird species recorded, it is a haven for birdwatchers as you look out for unique and colorful species such as the African grey parrot, green-breasted pitta, great blue turaco, black-billed turaco, and many others.
Forest Elephants: Kibale National Park is home to a population of forest elephants, which are smaller and more elusive than their savannah counterparts. While sightings of these gentle giants are not as common as other wildlife, lucky visitors may have the opportunity to spot them during their explorations.
Other Wildlife: The Park is also inhabited by a variety of other wildlife species, including bushbucks, duikers, African civets, mongooses, giant forest hogs, and various reptiles and amphibians.
Nature and Scenic Beauty: The park’s lush rainforest, rolling hills, and crater lakes provide a beautiful backdrop for your visit. You can explore the diverse ecosystems, walk along nature trails, and enjoy the serenity and beauty of the surroundings.
NDALI CRATER AREA:
The scenic Ndali crater field, 20km south of Fort Portal, is the largest of western Uganda’s several clusters of extinct volcanic craters. Dozens of craters, including thirty lakes, await discovery by vehicle or bicycle or on foot. The legendary and notoriously reclusive Rwenzori snow peaks are most reliably seen from view points in the area during the April – may rains. Overnight options range from the charmingly eccentric Ndali lodge to a range of budget retreats.
WHAT TO DO IN KIBALE NATIONAL PARK
Chimpanzee tracking: The park is famous and home for about 1500 chimpanzees, and one of the main highlights of a visit is going on a chimpanzee tracking experience. accompanied by experienced guides, you can trek through the forest to observe and learn about these fascinating primates in their natural habitat.
Forest exploration: Kibale forest is also home to several other primate species like the red colobus monkey and taking a guided walk helps you explore these and more animals like the elephants.
Cultural Encounters: The Park is surrounded by local communities like the batooro and bakiga and engaging in cultural encounters can provide insights into the traditional way of life in the region. You can visit nearby villages, interact with community members, learn about their customs, participate in traditional dances, and even visit craft markets to support local artisans.
Bird watching: There are about 300 bird species recorded in this area and visiting this place will be a great time for you to spot birds like the elusive African grey parrot.
Nature Walks and Hiking: Kibale National Park offers several nature trails and hiking opportunities that allow you to explore the diverse ecosystems of the park. through the forest, swamps like bigodi, and grasslands, providing opportunities to spot various wildlife, birds, and plants.
Chimpanzee Habituation Experience: This is an in-depth encounter with chimpanzees that allows you to spend an extended period of time with a chimpanzee group, accompanying researchers and guides as they habituate the chimpanzees to human presence.
BEST TIME TO VISIT THE PARK
The best time to visit Kibale National Park depends on your personal preferences and priorities. The dry seasons generally offer more favorable conditions for activities and wildlife viewing due to less dense vegetation and drier tracks. However, even during the dry seasons, there may still be some rainfall, so it’s advisable to come prepared with appropriate rain gear. The wet seasons can provide unique experiences and opportunities for bird watching lovers.
WHERE TO STAY IN THE PARK
Primate Lodge Kibale: Located within Kibale National Park, it offers comfortable and spacious cottages, safari tents within the forest, a serene setting and proximity to the park’s activities, including chimpanzee tracking as well as amenities such as a restaurant, bar, and campfire area.
Kyaninga Lodge: It’s found near Kibale National Park, and offers luxurious accommodation in beautifully designed cottages overlooking Lake Kyaninga. It also provides a blend of comfort, elegance, and stunning views featuring a restaurant, bar, swimming pool, and well-maintained gardens.
Ndali Lodge: This is positioned on a working farm near the park. It offers charming cottages with panoramic views of the Rwenzori Mountains and the stunning Crater Lakes. Providing a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere where guests can enjoy delicious meals made from organic ingredients sourced from the farm.
Crater Safari Lodge: Located on the rim of Nyinabulitwa Crater Lake, close to the park, The lodge offers spacious cottages with private balconies overlooking the beautiful crater lake with a restaurant, bar, swimming pool, and various activities such as nature walks, birding, and village visits.
Isunga Lodge: This lodge is in the heart of the park and provides comfortable accommodation in spacious canvas tents with en-suite bathrooms. It also offers an immersive forest experience, and guests can enjoy guided walks, birding, and chimpanzee tracking.
Chimpanzee Forest Guesthouse: Located in Bigodi Village near Kibale National Park, the guesthouse offers budget-friendly accommodation in simple rooms with basic amenities provides a friendly and relaxed atmosphere and is a good option for travelers on a tighter budget.