This is another unique tourist attraction but not so popular with the mountain itself being the main attraction for hiking. Mountain Elgon National park is found at the eastern border of Uganda and Kenya and is an extinct volcanic mountain that last erupted more than 24 million years ago. This is also one of Uganda’s oldest physical features and was at one point ranked the highest mountain in Africa at 6,895m above sea level, higher than Rwenzori and Kilimanjaro at 5,109m and 5,895m above sea level respectively.

However the era of erosion and denudation didn’t leave it the same as it is now ranks the 8th highest mountain on the African continent and 4th in the whole of East Africa region while standing at 4321m above sea level. The highest peak of this mountain is Wagagai which is on the Ugandan side and Kenya owns the smallest portion of this mountain at 169km only. The other peaks on the mountain include Jackson’s summit standing at 4165m, Mubiayi summit at 4,210m and Kiongo at 4,321m above sea level. The mountain is home to a series of rivers that form the famous Sipi falls, a very famous romantic spot in the eastern region of Uganda.

The Ugandan side of administration under Uganda wildlife authority first gazetted it as a Forest reserve in the year 1929, a status that was later changed to National park in 1992. The park covers districts of Mbale, Kapchorwa, Suam, Manafwa, Bududa, Budadiri and Sironko on the Ugandan side of it.

Mountain Elgon national park has got 2 annual rainfall seasons of April-June as well as between September – November with average temperatures remaining chilly due to its altitude and thick vegetation cover.

Mount Elgon National Park covers an area size of over 1,121sq.km with the main and unique tourist attraction on this mountain is caldera on top of this mountain which is the largest in the whole world and it takes about 7 days of hiking to reach the top. The park also has got a rich avian life of over 300 bird species and among these the Lammergeyer eagle being the most sought after by most birders. The other bird species include Jackson’s francolin, Hunter’s Cisticola, Moorland Francolin, among others. The park also boosts of over 23 mammal species and these include elephants, buffaloes, among others as well as over 300 indigenous tree and other plant species

The Bagishu and Sabiny are the main 2 native tribes of this region and they are locally referred to as the Bamasaba people. They Bagishu mainly depend on small subsistence farming with coffee being their major cash crop and also do believe in male circumcision.

How to get there?

Mountain Elgon national park can be accessed by road from Kampala through Jinja to Mbale, a 240km journey that will take you about 5-6 hours of drive on smooth paved roads.

The other transport option is to fly from Entebbe on a chartered flight offered by Aerolink to Soroti and then drive for about an hour to the park headquarters.

Attractions and Activities in Mount. Elgon National park.

Wildlife Experience.

The national park is home to quite a big count of wildlife species with it being home to big herds of forest elephants, waterbucks, hyenas and buffaloes. The park is also home to some primate species like the Colobus, Red-tailed and Blue monkeys and while on your walk up to the peak, stay rest assured to spotting some.

Sipi Falls hike.

Sipi falls are a series of waterfalls at the edge of Mountain Elgon in Kapchorwa district eastern Uganda. This is a series of rivers flowing high up from the mountains and these are truly unique and magnificent in their own way.

There are daily guided nature walks on to the top of these waterfalls offered by local guides and these present to you majestic views of the dry Karamojong region in the North eastern direction of Uganda. There are three phases of waterfalls with the first one standing at 100m above sea level which is Sipi itself, second one is Ngasire at 87m and the third waterfall is Simba at 69m above sea level.

Mountain Climbing.

When you compare it to the other mountains across East Africa, Mountain Elgon offers less strenuous hikes but with one of kind scenic views as you go up. There are different trail heads to be explored daily and these range between day hikes to several days of hiking and camping depending on your interests and experience. Sasa trail in Mountain Elgon national park is the shortest one and at the same time the steepest one to the peak as it could only take 4 days for an experienced hiker to reach the peak through it.

There are local people at the national park headquarters always waiting to work as porters. This is a government initiative through different park administrations to involve the local people into conservation and promotion of tourism. These porters are always there to help tourists in carrying luggage, cook food, pull and push you as you climb up the mountain.

Bird watching tours.

Mountain Elgon national Park boosts of over 300 species of birds and this activity is mainly done along the Kapkwai forest exploration centre trail and also along the waterfalls of Cheptui river.

The Lammergeyer eagle is the most sought after bird by most birders bird watching Uganda Safaris. The other bird species include Jackson’s francolin, Hunter’s Cisticola, Moorland Francolin among others.

Local Coffee Tours.

Mountain Elgon region has proved to have the best coffee experience in Uganda mainly because of its rich and fertile volcanic soils that favour its growth. While on this activity, you will be through the process of coffee production – how it is planted, harvested, dried and brewed, until it’s ready in the cup for drinking. Endeavour to support these local communities by buying some of their coffee and other products as it is a way of giving back to them.

The type of coffee in this region is mainly Arabica Coffee which is locally referred to as Bugishu coffee or Sipi coffee.

Abseiling.

This is mainly for the adventure seekers looking to discover new things on the other side of the world. Tourists do abseil or rappel from top of a 100m above sea level Sipi falls up to below where the water pours.

The bubbling sound of the waterfalls and panoramic views of the area will give you a forever lifetime memory. This activity is currently costing 50$ and handled by professionally trained adventure guide who have all the necessary equipment in place.

Cave Tours

There are a number of caves on Mountain Elgon and the most visited ones are the Khauka cave in Wanale on the slopes of mountain Elgon in Mbale district. These caves originally acted as shelter to the local people and their livestock especially on bad weather days like heavy rainfall.

Guided Nature walks

There are so many hiking trails on both outside and inside the mountain Elgon national park. While outside the park, local guides especially in the Sipi region do walks  through the local communities to high up on top of the Sipi falls and while there you will be presented to stunning views of the dry Karamoja plains in the north east.

Whereas inside the park, you can as well take on a guided nature walk to the Mudange cliffs also known as the walls of death while spotting different monkey species especially the Black and white Colobus monkeys.

The Kapchorwa Runners Experience.

Kapchorwa region and Mountain Elgon region at large has become so famous to the world for breeding first class and elite athletes. You could opt to join the runners of that region early in the morning as they go about their training as well as this experience could be tailored to meet your interests though this will come at an extra cost.

Mountain Biking.

There is a boom in the biking and cycling experiences in this region, especially around Kapchorwa and the entire Elgon region and this activity will keep your adventure spirit high if you are a bike lover. The activity starts from Sipi town and goes up to Chema hill in Kapchorwa and enroute you will have a chance of visiting the falls plus scenic views of the dry Karamoja plains.

Accommodation options in Mount. Elgon National Park.

The Accommodation facilities around Mountain Elgon national park apply to all kinds of tourists whether upmarket, midrange or budget, there is something that matches your interests and budget.

All the lodges in this region have got beautiful scenic views of Mountain Elgon itself, clean and tidy rooms as well as views of the Sipi falls and Karamoja plains especially for those around Sipi falls region.

Up market/Luxury Accommodations

Mountain Elgon Hotel

Mbale resort Hotel

Sipi River lodge

Midrange/Standard Lodges

Wash and wills Country Home Mbale

Rafiki Sipi Lodge

Budget Lodges

Lacam Sipi Lodge

Mountain Elgon View Hotel

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Visit Semuliki Valley National Park in Uganda for an authentic birding and wildlife safari experience. Also see accommodation/lodges, location, map & more. Semuliki National Park is located in the furthest part of western Uganda along the edge of great western rift valley in Bundibugyo district lying on the Uganda/Congo border. The park is bordered by the Rwenzori Mountains in the South-east and Lake Albert to the North. It is arguably one of Uganda’s recently established and smallest national parks, covering 220 square kilometers of the valley that links Uganda to the rain forests of Central Africa.

The game park is located approximately 340km south of Uganda’s capital, Kampala and 6 hours’ away by road. It is an extension of the vast Ituri tropical rainforest in DR. Congo and due to this fact, the park shares some of Ituri forest’s endemic flora and fauna that have strong resemblance to the Congo Basin species. Semuliki Forest is a category of moist semi-deciduous and is dominated by the Ironwood tree as well as Cynometra alexandrii, while 7% of the park is wetland forest dominated by the palm Eliaeis guineensis, Mytragyna rubrostipulosa and the Ficus vogeliana. See some of our safaris to Semuliki Valley National Park below.

Semuliki has got a rich biodiversity likely to be part of the Pleistocene refugium harboring fauna characteristic of the ‘Gunea-Congolian’ plus the Lake Victoria Regional Mosaic’ centres of endemism in Africa.

Semuliki National Park is home to at least 331 unique species of trees and 441 bird species have been recorded here so far, of which 2 are restricted range species.

It has about 86 mammal species with 9 species or subspecies threatened. Some of them include the Bates’s pygmy antelope (also known as the dwarf antelope), only found in this park in the entire region of East Africa.

The park is also particularly important for its population of mona monkeys (Cercopithecus pogonias denti) which is not found elsewhere in Uganda and de Brazza monkeys (Ceropithecus neglectus).

Resident in this park also include larger mammals such as forest elephants, hippos, forest buffaloes, leopards as well as a few chimpanzees (only about 50 individuals) and up to 8 species of diurnal primates found in Semuliki reserve.

Semuliki is primarily important for conservation of species whose range is restricted to this part of East Africa and Congo Basin.
Viewing the Sempaya Hot Springs

The hot springs are one of the most popular attractions and a highlight of Semuliki National park; containing magnificent views of boiling water effusing out from beneath to form a cloud which can be seen with in a distance of 2km.

There are two hot springs; one is referred to as the male and the other as a female hot spring.

Male hot spring is called Bitente and is about 12 meters in width, while the female hot spring is known as Nyansimbi that gushes out water approximately 2 meters above the ground.

These hot springs are a convergence point for numerous animals as well as many wetland birds which are drawn to the hot springs due to the presence of salty minerals.

There is a path that leads from the park ranger station to hot springs. These hot springs are encompassed by palm trees, forests and a huge fog that forms due to steam.

This makes the entire place look magnificent offering visitors an unforgettable experience. Visitors are advised not to move closer to the two Sempaya hot springs since the water is too hot and boiling temperature can raise up to 100°C.

The path to these hot springs passes through lush forests availing opportunities of viewing numerous primates including the grey-cheeked mangabeys, white & black Colobus monkeys, red tailed monkeys as well as several bird species like blue-breasted kingfisher, yellow throated tinker bird and eight forest hornbills.
Chimpanzee Trekking

Semuliki national park is home to approximately 250 chimpanzees; most of these are under research by the Indiana University, but only about 50 are habituated for trekking, and a number of others still under habituation.

Chimpanzee trekking in Semuliki National park is not as arduous as trekking mountain gorillas, since Semuliki’s landscape is quite flat and not so rugged.

Hence tracking them doesn’t require any previous experience or fitness, though there are instances when fast movements in the forests might be necessary in order to catch up with these naughty restless primates.

Semuliki has the lowest population of chimpanzees compared to other destinations like Kibale, Budongo and Kalinzu forests; but nevertheless with the help of knowledgeable and experienced ranger guides, chances of viewing these endangered apes remain as high as 90%.
Community Visits

There are two ancient groups of people living in this region, namely Bakonjo and Bamba.

Other minor communities include the Batuku who are pastoralists living in the nearby Ntoroko district, and the indigenous Bamburi Batwa (pygmies) who dwell in the valley.

The Batwa are a traditional group of people that were relocated from the interior of Semuliki forest where they inhabited for generations, and they survived by fruit gathering and hunting wild animals in the forests.

When you make it to the park never miss out an opportunity to carry out a community walk to discover, learn more about the Batwa and pay a visit to their homes.

The Basu. This is a small remote group of people that still dwells within the Semuliki and Ituri forests.

This tribe still depends on traditional hunting and fruit gathering, plus a little revenue they share from the national park entrance fees.

They also earn income from repetitive visits by tourists, where they sell to them crafts, paid performances, food, among others.
Nature Walks

Nature walks in Semuliki national park are done through numerous designated trails which offer magnificent access to the fertile wetlands, scenic savannah plains and lush forests.

Nature walks are guided by skilled, professional rangers who are well informed about the ecosystem and entire biodiversity of the along each trail.

Some of the trails include the Sempaya Nature trail, Red monkey and Kirumia trails.
Accommodation

Lodging facilities inside and near Semuliki National Park are not quite many, though there are a number of lodges and hotels in Bundibugyo and Fort portal towns which are about 15km and 35km from the park respectively.

Types of accommodation here range from luxurious/up market to Budget and camp sites.

Options include Semuliki Safari Lodge, Ntoroko game lodge, the basic Kirumia guest house and for campers and backpackers, Bumuga campsite is the best option.
When to go?

The park is situated at the intersection of several climatic and ecological zones, therefore tours can happen at any time of the year, though dry seasons are highly recommended; this is the time nature trails are dry and less slippery and forests are easy to navigate.

The wettest months of Semuliki are March – May and Late September to Mid-December with average rainfall of 1250 mm. Annual mean temperature ranges from 18°C minimum to a maximum of 30°C.
Group tours to Semuliki National Park

Given the nature of activities and experiences in Semuliki national park, group tours are a great option to better explore this soft spoken treasure in the pearl of Africa.

With numerous campsites in and out of the park, and luxurious lodges, travelers will never fail to find where to slumber at least for a night to explore Africa’s authentic wilderness!

This park is one of those least visited destinations in Uganda, so a group tour, whether small or big will not pause any environment threat or mass tourism.

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With a total area of only 33.9 km², Mgahinga remains Uganda’s smallest national park. It was first declared a game sanctuary in 1930 during colonial time by the British and was later gazetted into a national park in 1991. It was established to protect the rare mountain gorillas plus other endangered primates like the golden monkey. Mgahinga Gorilla National Park shares part of the Virunga Conservation Area, an area that shelters the 8 Virunga Massif.

Mgahinga’s varied eco-system is of great cultural importance especially to the indigenous Batwa pygmies with their hunting and gathering life together with their history and knowledge of this place. Here you can enjoy activities like trekking gorillas (gorilla trekking), golden monkeys, watching birds, hiking mountains, nature walks and visit the Batwa Pygmies. Despite having few accommodation facilities, you’ll always find a place to stay in Mgahinga. See some of our gorilla trekking safaris below and start planning your visit to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.

Mgahinga national park is one of the two parks where the rare mountain gorillas can be found in Uganda. Visitors to this park purposely come for gorilla tracking.

This adventurous activity normally starts at 8:00am after being briefed about the dos and don’ts while trekking at Ntebeko gate.

Tourists are then led by the park guides and the trackers through the forest to find the gentle giants after which they are allowed to spend up to an hour with them seeing their way of life and taking pictures to capture memories of this mind blowing wildlife experience.

With over 80 mountain gorillas, the park has only one habituated gorilla family, known as Nyakagezi group with 9 members and this means that there are only 8 permits available for trekkers on any given day.
The rare golden monkeys

Another unique experience is golden monkey tracking which is always combined with gorilla trekking to make a trip to Mgahinga more fun.

Uganda and Rwanda are the only places where you can track these golden bodied, black limbed-crowned primates.

What makes the experience more phenomenal is that these golden monkeys are also habituated meaning they won’t shy away from people while tracking them.

You can also spend more time with them during the golden monkey habituation experience and more to that this activity is not as hectic as gorilla trekking as they are found in the lowland bamboo sector.
Birding in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Mgahinga gorilla national park also offers to her guests another tourism experience of bird watching.

This is due to the existence of about 180 different bird species that normally line up along the Gorge trail between Gahinga and Sabinyo volcanoes.

Some of the bird species that can be watched here include; regal sunbird, Rwenzori Turaco, Rwenzori Batis, chubb’s cisticola, grey capped warbler, wax bills, Blue-headed sunbird, among others.

A birding expedition in Mgahinga will also take you to the most spectacular spots in this park and encounter the most scenic views you can ever imagine.
The Batwa Cultural Trail and Garama Cave

Feel the forest through the eyes of the first inhabitants while doing the Batwa forest trail.

This is a must do activity in the park because it combines both the nature and cultural experiences to see how this indigenous tribe moved about with their life in the forest including how they hunted, gathered food, herbs, honey, medicine, made clothing and many others.

The Batwa people will be the guides themselves. The sacred Garama cave is also attached to this group of people because it’s where their king lived and where they would hide in times of war.

The sacred Garama cave is one of the prime sites that ought not be missed during a tour to Mgahinga Gorilla National park.

The Garama caves were the ancient home of indigenous Batwa people who lived there for several years until they were resettled a decade ago.

These are 342m in length, lying beneath a plateau in the north of the park, 3km from Ntebeko gate.

The caves are located in a former farmland zone though previously, it lied within a forest which was used by the Batwa periodically as council chambers and a retreat point and hideout during conflicts with their neighbors.
Mountain Climbing

Volcano climbing is yet another typical adventure for those intending to visit Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.

The climbing can make you even access all the three countries on top of mount Sabinyo, as well as the other two volcanoes, Gahinga and Muhabura which are shared between Rwanda and Uganda.

Climbing any of these mountains requires minimum level of fitness, strength and stamina plus agility to make it a complete success in this wonder land.

Being small as it is, does not necessarily mean that it is limited with activities and experiences offered, because there are very many things you can do while in this gorilla land of Mgahinga.
When to visit Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

There is no completely dry season in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park and two distinct rainy seasons happen in Mgahinga National Park every year; the first season starting from mid – February to May which marks Mgahinga’s longest rainy season while late September to November is the park’s shortest rainy season.

Mgahinga National Park is open for visitation all year round. However, dependent on one’s travel needs and preferences, Mgahinga National Park is best explored during a dry season which occurs from June to early September and December to February.

During this period, most hiking trails in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park tend to be drier, less slippery and mud-free thus making it ideal for visitors to trek mountain gorillas and golden monkeys through dense, steep vegetation.

The dry season is also perfect for hiking to top of any of the three volcanoes – Gahinga, Sabinyo and Muhabura.

Due to this variation in weather conditions, one is advised to pack appropriately depending on their travel interest and if planning to undertake mountain gorilla trekking; waterproof hiking boots are required, as well as garden gloves, waterproof daypack, rain jacket/poncho, long sleeved shirts and so much more.

During dry season, the average temperatures experienced here range from 20 degrees’ Celsius during day and 8 degrees’ Celsius night time.

Where to Stay in Mgahinga Gorilla N.P

Looking for exceptional accommodation options in Mgahinga National Park? There are quite excellent properties within and outside of Mgahinga Gorilla National Park ranging from budget, midrange / standard to upmarket (luxurious) safari lodges and hotels offering well-appointed guestrooms and suites for comfortable stay at reasonable prices.

All budget, Mid-Range and luxury lodges boast a wide array of customer-oriented services and amenities aimed entirely at delivering nothing but total satisfaction.

Accommodation in Kisoro Town

A wide choice of lodging is also available in Kisoro, a home town of Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.

This is located 14 km from the Ntebeko gate – main entrance to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.

For those looking for quite affordable but standard lodges, Kisoro offers a wide array of accommodation facilities ranging from basic self-catering camp sites to ultra-modern luxurious hotels all at pocket friendly prices.

Joining a group tour to Mgahinga NP

Group tours are excellent options for anyone travelling to Mgahinga national park due to a profusion of adventure experiences present in this park, such as Volcano climbing, mountain gorilla trekking, Golden monkey trekking, cultural and nature walks and more activities.

Trekking to the top of rugged Sabyinyo mountain is made even more easy when you are in a group.

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With its 37,000 size, at an altitude ranging from 1,220m to 1,828m above sea level, Lake Mburo National Park, the smallest Savannah park in Uganda, and is easily accessible by the Mbarara-Masaka highway from Kampala; about 240 km/3.5- hours’ drive to the western region. It is a rich park in terms of animals and birds and culture with a dry and rocky environment in the west and vast wetlands in the eastern part. With such a good location and very affordable entrance fees, Lake Mburo offers so many activities to travelers; some of which include game viewing, horseback riding, biking, boat safaris, night game drives, walking safaris, cultural encounters, bird watching, sun-downers and so much more.

Some 50 km of creeks and canals, connect thirteen lakes in the area, five of which lie within the boundaries of the park, with the largest being Lake Mburo. Some of the safari lodges in Lake Mburo National Park include Lake Mburo Safari Lodge, Arcadia Cottages, Rwakobo Rock Lodge, Eagles Nest Lodge, Mantana Luxury Tented Camp, and Mihingo Lodge among many other more.

Lake Mburo National Park has a difference in landscapes, ranging from golden Savannahs, rolling hills, ancient rocks, lush forests and swamps as well as the five lakes, with the largest lake within the park boundaries being Lake Mburo and another 14 lakes surrounding the park.

Towards the west, the savannah plains are traversed by forested gorges and rocky ridges.

While the park’s savannah areas were much more open in the past; however vast sectors of the park are now covered with shrubs and pockets of lush forests, due to the absence of elephants and other burning controls.

The eastern wetlands make up 20% of the park’s total area; along the lakes and creeks in the East, pockets of papyrus and riparian shrubs on the shores of open water.

Small patches of full-grown tropical forests on the western side of Lake Mburo gives an impression of semi-humid tropical high forest with a closed canopy which can be seen up-close from a viewing platform.
Wildlife in Lake Mburo

While hunting and farming had almost totally eliminated wildlife in the past, it has now made a remarkable recovery. Large herds of Eland and Cape Buffaloes roam the Western park.

It is the only park where Impala can be found and one of the three parks with Burchell’s Zebra. Common savannah species are Oribi, Defassa Waterbuck, Topi, Common Duiker and Bofor Reedbuck.

The top predators are the Leopard and Spotted Hyena; midsize predators include the Side-striped Jackal and various smaller predators like the white-tailed mongoose.

Only 2 species of monkeys are present in the park: the Vervet Monkey and Olive Baboon.

The park’s wetlands are inhabited by Cape Buffaloes, Bush-pig, Hippos and Sitatungas, Warthogs, Topis, elands; aquatic predators include the mighty African Crocodile and up to three Otter species.
Boat cruise on Lake Mburo

A boat trip along lake Mburo exposes you to extremely rich in fauna and flora species that line the lake shores and spotted flawlessly on an afternoon launch.

Hippopotamuses, large crocs and birds like black crake, pelicans, heron, Fish Eagle, Cormorant and the elusive shoebill stork among others.

This is a two-hour experience, and visitors can either be arranged in a small or large boat, each with different rates.
Walking safaris in Lake Mburo

Get a more personal and up-close encounter with nature and explore Lake Mburo National Park on foot!

This 2-3 hours walking safari begins from Nshara Park Gate and visitors are guided by an expert UWA Ranger into the savannah plains for epic game viewing.

There’s plenty of time to go at your own pace and enjoy great profusion of animals. Remember to carry some strong shoes and the camera to capture every moment.
Game drives & cultural experiences

Lake Mburo National Park is a hub to fantastic game drives through its vast panoramic savannah plains.

The game tracks in the middle of the park contain spectacular viewpoints and picnic spots to offer unbeatable game viewing opportunities.

Ranger guides are available to escort you and narrate the rich story behind the park’s immense beauty.

As a way of appreciating and encouraging conservation of local traditions and cultures of the Bahima people, a visit to explore and enjoy their peculiar norms is worthwhile.

Visitors are taken to a local family, close to the park, that has opened their doors to give guests a typical insight into the way of life for the Bahima pastoralists.

While here, visitors learn about making various milk products such as local ghee while listening to the old women narrate about their traditions and the cultures.

Depending on the time of the tour visitors can even have the opportunity to engage in local milking and grazing the majestic Ankole long-horned cattle.
Night game drives in the park

Night game drives, also known as nocturnal game drives are extremely exciting encounters. Visitors have excellent opportunities to spot some of the more elusive species of the park such as leopards, porcupines, spotted hyenas, pangolins and so much more.
Bird Watching in Lake Mburo

With more than 350 recorded bird species, Lake Mburo National park is a paradise for bird watching. This park is Uganda’s excellent spot in for acacia-dwelling birds.

Other bird species present in the park include the forest species in Rubanga Forest. The wetlands form a bonus for birders where the 6 papyrus specials can be sighted, including the magnificent papyrus gonolek and blue-headed coucal.

Lake Mburo is also a place to find southern species at the northern limit of their range, including the bare-faced go-away bird and black-collared barbet.

The months of November – April are appropriate for viewing migratory birds.

Forest and savannah birds in Lake Mburo national park include the Harrier Hawk, Grey-backed Green Pigeon, Double-toothed Barbet, Cameroptera and Narina Trogon.
Joining group tours to Lake Mburo

Lake Mburo National park can be visited all year-round, though dry season months (June to August) and (December – February) form the most appropriate time for wildlife viewing as animals gather around the waterbodies during sunny days.

Nevertheless, wildlife viewing is still possible during short wet seasons, that is from March – May and from September – November. During this time, the park’s vegetation is ever green and scenic.

Possible activities / experiences in dry Season (June to August and December to February) – Great wildlife viewing as vegetation thins and animals congregate around waterbodies; however, there are sunny days and the air is clouded by mist, which makes the views less impressive.

During wet Seasons, that is March to May and September to November; Game viewing is still better when animals can be spotted within open valleys.

There are fewer visitors and therefore hotel and park activity rates might be discounted, presence of migratory birds, clear and cleaner air, and landscapes are green.

However, wet, muddy roads may be slippery and become hard to negotiate, occasional heavy rains may as well interfere with game drives.

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Kibale Forest National Park is located in western Uganda in the beautiful Kabarole district, 299km from Kampala city and barely 25kms north of Fort portal town along Kamwenge highway. The best chimpanzee trekking safaris in the world take place here, but there are lots of other safari activities that you can engage in and so many species of animals to see. When you are visiting for chimpanzee trekking, the entrance fee is already included in your permit.

The park is one of the famous moist and lush tropical forests in East Africa covering an approximate area of 795 Sq-km. It also has a diverse array of landscapes due to its position in relatively high elevation of 5200ft, and one of the remaining forests covering both lowlands and mountainous areas. When you look at the map of the park, you will be wowed by its diversity. Some of the accommodation facilities, lodges and hotels in the park include; Primate Lodge, Crater Safari Lodge, Kibale Forest Lodge, Isunga Lodge, Chimpundu Lodge and Kibale Guest Cottages among the rest.

Kibale Forest National Park is also known as the primate capital of Africa because of the presence of numerous species of primates ranging from the rare chimpanzees, Uganda mangabeys, L’Hoest’s and Red Colobus Monkeys which are some of the rarest and endemic to the Albertine rift. In total, Kibale Forest National Park is home to 13 different primate species including over 1500 chimpanzees, with five troops well habituated for daily visitation, 372 bird species, 250 butterfly species and other small and big mammals that reside in this park.

Though the park is well known for the primates, it is also diverse in other terrestrial mammals that can be seen in the park, including; the Red and blue duikers, bushbucks, forest elephants, bush pigs, common giant forest hogs and so much more.

Some of the daily sighted species of birds, include olive long-tailed cuckoo, great blue Turaco, Patas grey parrot and the ground thrush which is endemic to Kibale forest.
Chimpanzee Trekking in Kibale

The varied flora and a huge forest canopy has made Kibale forest a perfect home for chimpanzees that everyone on a chimp hunt is recommended here.

Chimp trekking in Kibale forest gives a unique experience that no other forest reserve can give in Uganda and East African region.

An all day trip to this place can do you better than expected. Walking through the lush vegetation while dodging, ducking and pushing your way through the thick branches, damp dirt and leaves.

Trekking through a thick fog, burrs and wet undergrowth plants, proceed to move up the steep terrain, while grabbing on to tree branches and strong vines to help you pull up, step by step as you try to reach out to the direction where the sounds of chimps are heard.

The reward in the end of a chimp trek in Kibale forest is definitely worthwhile, with safari ants under your shirt and crawling at their pace, pale face and wet shoes, these humble apes will finally come into sight and proceed to have an up close encounter with the gentle, intelligent creatures.

Meeting these chimps face-to-face is a completely rare and special treat that no one should ever miss.
Nature Walks in Kibale Forest

Due to the diverse nature of this park, interesting nature walks have been constructed and are always there to offer memorable nature-friendly treks for any visitor.

The park offers both day and nocturnal guided nature walks to expose trekkers to diverse experiences.

A day nature walk is favorable for carrying out chimpanzee treks and some other rare residents of the park and as they go to rest, the nocturnal walk begins after dinner, usually at 7:00 – 7:30 pm and lasting for about 2 – 3 hours.

A day nature walk is also ideal for butterfly viewing and as well important for birding expeditions, to explore Kibale forest’s 372 varied bird species.

Birding can also be done in the Bigodi wetland sanctuary, which is a popular home of the great Blue Turaco as well as magical community encounters, biking and other cultural experiences.

A night walk is an interesting adventure, particularly for spotting rarely seen nocturnal animals such as the Potta, bush baby, nightjar, cricket, tree hyrax, and the occasional serval cat and leopards.

The strong spotlights offer clear sights of such nocturnal creatures.

Night nature walks are a ‘must do’ while in this tropical forest; Beginning after dinner, visitors undertake the amazing nocturnal walk not just to view the sleeping jungle life, but to experience the remote African rain forest life.

Beyond viewing the nocturnal creatures of Kibale forest, it is the feeling of the jungle with its night echoes, plants and trees that seem to take a different expression at night.

An outstanding feature of the walk is experiencing the jungle echoes in the night on your Nocturnal Forest Walk in Kibale Forest, which is an out-of-ordinary experience.
Accommodation in Kibale Forest National Park

There are numerous lodging facilities that serve Kibale forest ranging from back packers camp sites, basic lodges and safari tents, midrange and standard lodges, and super luxurious lodges.

These are well distributed across all corners of the forest; in the north (the crater lakes region), Southern part (the Bigodi sector) while others are located inside the park offering firsthand forest experience.

Whether you stay in the up-market Kyaninga lodge, Primate Lodge or choose to slumber at the basic Rweteera Safari camp; the experience you find in each of them is worthwhile.

Don’t let your budget be the hindrance to a great group tour in Kibale national park.

What makes lodges in Kibale specifically unique is that each has been designed and built intentionally on a prime spectacular location overlooking the crater lakes, forests, conical hills or evergreen vegetation, all furnishing their visitors with extra ordinary scenic views.
When to visit Kibale forest for group tours

The wettest sector of Kibale is its northern side (crater lakes region) which receives an average annual rainfall of around 1700mm, mainly during months of March to May and September – November.

Rainfall is lower (Temperatures are highest) in the south (Bigodi sector) where the terrain is more flat at a point which intercepts with the rift valley floor and where the thick forest begins to give way to open grassland.

However, Kibale’s climate is generally pleasant with average annual temperatures ranging from 14 to 27 degrees Celsius.
Joining a group tour to Kibale forest

Group tours to Kibale forest are perfect for intrepid travelers, researchers, students, and those who really need a completely off-the-beaten path experience in an African jungle.

Though chimpanzee trekking is restricted to only 8 people per troop per trek, but Kibale can still be visited by more than 100 people per day due to the increased number of habituated troops of chimpanzees.

There are numerous activities in Kibale forest which can best be done in groups including Crater Lake hikes, tea plantation tours, cycling, community walks, nature walks and more.

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Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, was gazetted to protect Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, Uganda’s most popular mountain gorilla home, and one of it’s most sought after tourist destination.

Despite the various animal species in this park, most visitors are drawn by just one animal; the mountain gorilla.

To minimize disturbance to these endangered great apes, only eight people are permitted to track an allocated group of habituated mountain gorillas on any single day, while viewing time is strictly limited to one hour.

As wildlife viewing goes, it is difficult to convince how or where on earth 60 minutes could be more rewarding.

Gorilla trekking offers the privilege of encountering one of the world’s rarest animals in its natural habitat and, by doing so, helping to fund its continued survival.

Although mountain gorillas are undeniably intelligent and impressive creatures to watch – a giant Silverback that weighs over 200 kg but still keeps its calm, and these creatures are obviously one of our closest relatives and few observers emerge from the magic hour without feeling an unfathomable and often profoundly moving connection.

Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Forest

The wildlife experience in Bwindi impenetrable National Park is truly out of the ordinary.

Biologically, this impenetrable forest is one of Africa’s richest, which is why it was listed a UNESCO World heritage site, owing to its great age, cultural and nature diversity and an altitudinal range spanning 1400 meters ASL.

It also contains an impressive list of bio diverse species, including 200 different trees, 350 birds, 120 mammals, 51 reptiles, 310 butterflies and 88 moths, including several primates, among them chimpanzees, black and white colobus, blue monkeys, grey checked Mangabeys, L’Hoest’s monkey and as well as the park’s prime attraction – mountain gorillas.

Bwindi has over 17 habituated Gorilla groups, which are tracked from four sectors – Buhoma, Ruhija, Nkuringo and Rushaga.

A typical gorilla trekking excursion takes 1 to 8 hours depending on the location and daily movements of the group you are tracking, the weather and speed of the visitors.

This adventure also requires a reasonable level of fitness as this is an impenetrable forest which at times experiences heavy rains and paths become slippery and treks go through rough steep slopes which are hard to navigate.

The Batwa cultural experience

The Batwa, also known as the “Twa” are the original inhabitants of the Virunga region in the forests beneath the Virunga mountains.

They were later displaced from the forests in the early 1990s when gorilla conversation began to take shape, and now they reside on the outskirts of the Bwindi and Mgahinga forests in south-west and some in northern Rwanda.

When you visit Bwindi, never forget to take a visit to explore these amazing group of people.

Meet them and get to know how they lived in the forest as well as learning more about their activities including bee keeping, hunting, mushroom gathering, making crafts and fruit gathering.

In the evening, stories from the Twa legend will be told as well as traditional songs coupled with energetic dances.
When to visit Bwindi

A tour to Bwindi impenetrable national park can leave any time of the year; though it may depend on your tolerance for mud and slippery grounds, but there is a little variation in how comfortable you might feel during the gorilla trekking experience.

Bwindi is generally cold, but the coldest season is usually June and July, while heavy rains are experienced between March to May and short rains from September – Early December where long hours of drizzle are experienced.

Mornings in Bwindi are quite chilly, while night time is generally cold with temperatures averaging from 7 degrees celcius to 20 degrees celcius.

In general, the best gorilla trekking season in Bwindi is from Mid-June to early September which also doubles as the best time to undertake a safari elsewhere in Uganda.

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Queen Elizabeth National Park, formerly known as Kazinga, was named in honor of the late Queen Elizabeth of England after her visit to Uganda.

This park boasts stunning scenic beauty, with lush green vegetation covering its entire savanna landscape, including regions such as Ishasha, famous for its unique tree-climbing lions that nap in fig trees.

Giraffes also feed on these trees, and sometimes, these female lions prey on these elongated-necked animals.

Queen Elizabeth National Park spans parts of Kamwenge and Rubirizi in the Western Region, near snow-capped mountains like the Rwenzori Mountains, a block mountain with its highest peak, Margherita Peak.

Mountains near Mount Elgon on the eastern side also surround the area.

Park Entry Fees

The entry fee at the park is $40 for foreigners, $30 for foreign residents in Uganda, while East African Community citizens pay UGX 20,000. This fee is valid for a single day.

Annual entry fees are only available for foreign residents, costing $350, or $500 for couples. A family group with a maximum of four children pays $700, while a family from East Africa pays UGX 30,000.

Motorcycles are charged $30 for foreigners and UGX 10,000 for East African citizens, while saloon cars pay $40 for foreigners and UGX 20,000 for East African citizens.

Minibuses are charged $50 for foreigners and UGX 30,000 for East African citizens. Pickups and 4WD vehicles cost $50 for foreigners and UGX 30,000 for East African residents, while school buses are charged UGX 50,000.

Aircraft landing fees also apply, with helicopters paying $100 (foreigners) and UGX 25,000 (East African residents) per landing.

Important Notes:

• Landing fees are separate from the Queen Elizabeth National Park entry fee.
• En-route pilots staying less than 20 hours are exempt from park entry fees.
• Vehicle entry fees are charged per entry into the park.

Accommodation

Queen Elizabeth National Park offers a range of accommodations, from luxury to midrange and budget-friendly options.

Guests can enjoy deluxe rooms with amenities like free Wi-Fi, clean towels, bedsheets, televisions, warm blankets, ample parking, and on-site restaurants serving local and international cuisine.

Options include:

• Tembo Safari Lodge
• The Baboon Safari Hotel
• Irungu Forest Safari Lodge
• Engiri Game Lodge
• Buffalo Safari Lodge
• Elephant Plains Lodge
• Little Elephant Camp
• Queen Elizabeth Bush Lodge
• Ishasha Wilderness Camp
• Enjojo Lodge
• Pumba Safari Cottages
• Kyambura Gorge Lodge

Transportation

Visitors can reach the park by road or air. Charter flights are usually booked with Aero Link Uganda from Entebbe International Airport or Kajjansi Airfield to Kasese, with departures at 7:00 am, 10:15 am, and 12 noon daily.

Attractions in Queen Elizabeth National Park

• Kazinga Channel: This channel links two prominent lakes, Lake Edward and Lake George, named after members of the British royal family. It draws many tourists who come to see hippos swimming and crocodiles sunbathing. Elephants and buffaloes also gather here, enjoying a calm environment with fewer predators. Bird species like the African skimmer add to the area’s beauty.
• Kyambura Gorge: Known for gorilla trekking, this gorge allows travelers to witness gorillas in their natural habitat within the dense forest of Queen Elizabeth National Park. These gorillas have distinct features, such as broad chests and shoulders, large human-like hands, and small, hairless faces. Gorillas live in social groups, with adult males known as silverbacks. Tourists should maintain a safe distance and follow guide instructions, as gorillas can be dangerous. The trek lasts about three hours, and there are also 17 chimpanzees in the park, giving visitors a 60% chance of seeing them. Trekking permits are required and can be booked online or through the Uganda Wildlife Authority.
• Mweya Peninsula: Several game drive trails lead to Mweya Swamp. Located in the Rwenzururu sub-region in Kasese District on the northern bank of the Kazinga Channel, the area’s thick vegetation can make animal spotting challenging, but experienced game rangers can help locate hidden animals.

Activities at the Park

• Hot Air Balloon Safari: This activity offers tourists a bird’s-eye view of the park, allowing them to spot animals, including lions hidden in tall grass.
• Nature Walks: Different from balloon rides, nature walks allow tourists to explore on foot, providing ground-level views and access to areas unreachable by balloon.
• Boat Trip on the Kazinga Channel: One of the park’s highlights, the boat trip enables tourists to see hippos, crocodiles, and various birds. For a quiet experience that doesn’t scare the birds, the boat engine remains silent.

Queen Elizabeth National Park is an unforgettable destination for those with a passion for adventure. Decide today to add this majestic park to your safari itinerary!

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The waterfall at Murchison Falls National Park allows travelers to experience nature’s aesthetic music, created by the bubbling, white frothy cascades of water flowing into the plunge pool.

Known as the most powerful waterfall in the world, it shelters fierce species like lions, leopards, cheetahs, and the more tranquil zebras, giraffes, antelopes, buffaloes, and rhinos.

The park is also home to various snakes, such as pythons, king cobras, and garter snakes, which lack limbs, vocal cords, external ears, have only one functioning lung, and a long slender body.

Additionally, the park hosts crocodiles that feed on meat, and turtles, which are notably slow and carry hard shells like snails.

Various primates inhabit the park, including monkeys, baboons, gorillas, and chimpanzees.

The powerful Murchison Waterfall is surrounded by grassland vegetation at ground level and features some trees, providing habitat for primates that move from tree to tree while foraging.

Kabalega Waterfall

The waterfall, named Kabalega after the late King of Bunyoro, was renamed by Uganda’s former president, Idi Amin, in the 1970s.

It is located on the lower Victoria Nile River, which hosts aquatic species like tilapia, silverfish, and Nile perch in the plunge pool where the water collects.

The waterfall’s flow slows in the absence of rapids. Previously, it was visited for its Big Five animals, as it is Uganda’s oldest protected area.

Discovered by Samuel and Florence Baker, it was originally named after the Royal Geographical Society’s president, Frederick Murchison.

Location and Access

The national park spans districts such as Buliisa, Nwoya, Kiryandongo, and Masindi. The driving distance to the park is approximately 305 km (4-6 hours).

The headquarters at Paraa can be reached by driving 85 km from Masindi. The southern gates, Kichumbanyobo and Masindi South Gate, offer the most direct routes.

Another option is using the northern gates, Purongo or Tangi Gate-Pakwach, though these routes are longer.

For those preferring air transport, daily scheduled flights from Kajjansi Airfield take only one hour to reach the park.

Flights are also available to Chobe, Pakuba, or Bugungu airstrips.

Park Entry & Guidelines

Tourists are permitted entry to the national park after paying a fee, which varies depending on residency status. Foreigners pay different rates than locals.

Upon entry, tourists receive guidelines, which are reviewed during a briefing. Key guidelines include:

• Littering in the park is prohibited.
• Always move with a tour guide; solo exploration is not allowed.
• Maintain a safe distance from animals, especially during walking safaris, and avoid making noise, as animals prefer a calm environment.
• Feeding wild animals is prohibited to avoid disrupting their natural hunting behaviors.

The individual park entry fees are as follows:

• Foreign Non-Residents: 40 USD
• Foreign Residents: 30 USD
• East African Community Residents: UGX 20,000
• Children: 20 USD for non-residents, 10 USD for residents, UGX 5,000 for East African community members.

Attractions at Murchison Falls National Park

• Paraa: Located near the banks of the Nile River, Paraa is known for its large hippo population. Popular activities include birdwatching, sport fishing, and game drives.
• Budongo Forest: A favorite among nature lovers, this area offers opportunities for nature walks and gorilla trekking. The forest is famous for its mahogany trees and diverse bird species.
• Karuma Falls: Located in the northeastern part of the park, Karuma Falls forms a plunge pool where water collects, with some areas featuring rapids.

Activities

Activities in the park include game drives, boat trips, sport fishing, tracking, hiking, camping, birdwatching, and more.

Accommodation

Accommodation options in and around Murchison Falls National Park include Fort Murchison Safari Lodge, Chobe Safari Lodge, Murchison River Lodge, Murchison Backpackers, Sipi Falls National Park, Paraa Safari Lodge, Twiga Safari Lodge, Nile Safari, Pakuba Safari Lodge, and many others.

Don’t miss out on the adventure calling to people around the world. Ride on the silver lining up to the Pearl of Uganda and witness paradise at Murchison Falls National Park.

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Kidepo Valley was frequently visited by travelers who came to collect Borassus fruits used in the fermentation process for making palm beer.

Initially, Kidepo Park was a desolate land inhabited by the Dodoth pastoralists.

However, it was later gazetted as a National Park to protect and preserve species such as giraffes, buffaloes, ostriches, eagles, bustards, lions, leopards, snakes, turtles, and zebras.

Some of these animals graze on the lush grass during the wet season, while others are predators.

To experience the full beauty of this remarkable landscape, visitors must pay an entry fee that varies based on nationality.

Foreigners usually need a visa and a passport valid for at least six months, while citizens may use their national IDs for easy identification.

The Uganda Wildlife Authority charges entry fees as follows: adult foreign non-residents pay 40 USD, foreign residents 30 USD, and East African citizens pay UGX 20,000.

Children’s fees are 20 USD for foreign non-residents, 10 USD for foreign residents, and UGX 5,000 for East African citizens.

Ugandan students pay UGX 3,000 per person, university groups pay UGX 5,000, and wildlife clubs pay UGX 2,000.

Annual entry fees are 30 USD per foreign resident and UGX 350,000 for East African citizens. Foreign resident couples pay 600 USD, while East African citizen couples pay UGX 500,000.

For families with up to four children, foreign resident families pay an annual fee of 800 USD, and East African citizen families pay UGX 600,000.

Vehicle fees are charged every 24 hours, except for concessionaire visitor vehicles that pay once per trip.

Rescue vehicles are charged like other vehicles, including saloon cars, with foreign residents paying 40 USD and East African citizens UGX 20,000. Minibuses for foreign residents are charged per vehicle, while East African citizens pay UGX 30,000.

Pickups are charged 50 USD per vehicle for foreign residents, and UGX 30,000 for East African citizens. Tour company vehicles (4-wheel drives) for foreign residents are charged 150 USD, and UGX 30,000 for East African citizens.

Overlanders pay 150 USD for foreigners and UGX 100,000 for citizens, while lorries are charged 200 USD for foreign residents and UGX 200,000 for East African citizens. School buses pay UGX 50,000 per vehicle, and delivery vehicles are charged UGX 20,000 per entry.

Aircraft fees vary by seating capacity, with gliders and microlights for foreign residents paying 10 USD and UGX 20,000 for East African citizens.

Three-seater aircraft pay 20 USD per landing for foreign residents and UGX 40,000 for citizens, while four to six-seater aircraft are charged 30 USD for foreign residents and UGX 60,000 for East African citizens.

Tourist Activities at the Park

• Kidepo Lonyili Summit Hike: This hike costs 50 USD per person for foreign residents and UGX 50,000 for East African citizens. Fees must be paid in advance.
• Nature Walk: Scheduled during the day and late afternoon, day walks cost 15 USD for foreign non-residents, 10 USD for foreign residents, and UGX 10,000 for East African citizens. Early birds may spot various animals, including species hunting or caring for their young. Shyer and fiercer animals may be seen in the late afternoon. Visitors should keep a distance and remain quiet to avoid disturbing the wildlife.
• Birding: Birdwatching is often combined with camping, allowing tourists to sit with binoculars and view different bird species. Fees include 30 USD per person for foreign non-residents, 30 USD for foreign residents, and UGX 10,000 for East African citizens.
• Hot Air Balloon Safari: This activity provides aerial views of the landscape and wildlife, with morning and evening shifts available. The evening shift is particularly popular, as it offers a stunning view of Kidepo National Park at dusk.
• Game Drives: Available in morning and evening shifts, game drives cost 30 USD per person for foreign non-residents, 30 USD per person for foreign residents, and UGX 30,000 per person for East African citizens.

Accommodation – Where to Stay at Kidepo National Park

The park offers a variety of accommodations, from luxury to moderate and budget options, featuring amenities such as single or double rooms, a blue reflection swimming pool, private balconies, gardens, and restaurants serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Accommodation options include Kipedo Savanna Lodge, Katurum Lodge, Apoka Safari Lodge, Adere Safari Lodge, Zebra Safari Lodge, Nakoozi Eco Lodge, and Kidepo Savanna Lodge.

Park Attractions – Top Things to See in Kidepo National Park

Attractions include Mountain Morungole, often explored on foot with a game ranger, and Apoka Tourism Centre, which has an upmarket lodge, UWA-run cottages, and game ranger stations for escorted game drives.

Other attractions include Narus Valley, Kidepo Valley, Kanangorok Hot Springs, and Namamukweny Morungole, a quiet area known for its sparse population and few bird species.

Kidepo National Park is a beloved destination that offers comfort, adventure, and a chance to rekindle joy.

The decision to explore this exceptional national park in northern Uganda is yours to make.

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