Kibale Forest National Park
Kibale Forest National Park
Most people visit Kibale Forest National Park for the chimpanzee trekking – a unique wildlife experience that will stay with you forever. But Kibale National Park has so much more to offer. The scenery is stunning, lush green rainforest. You can enjoy beautiful nature walks and learn all about nature. You can also go birding. And around the park, there are also several cultural activities.
6 things you need to know about Kibale Forest National Park
There is so much to see and do in and around Kibale Forest National Park. Before we delve deeper, here are six facts to start with:
- Kibale is a deep green rainforest in western Uganda near Queen Elizabeth National Park.
- Around the park you also have other landscapes: swamps, craters.
- Kibale is home to highest density and diversity of primates in East Africa
- It is the best place in Africa to see chimpanzees in wild
- In Kibale you’ll find forest elephants, golden cats – and many other animals that like to hide.
- The area is a paradise for birds and therefore also for bird watchers.
One of Uganda's greenest parks
Kibale Forest is among the greenest national parks in Uganda. It is a lush tropical rainforest with rich, deep-green vegetation. Seen from the air, the forest spreads out like endless broccoli fields. The park supports many plant species, including 325 species of trees, birds, and monkeys. It covers over 770 square kilometers, though it was once far larger. Long ago, much of western Uganda was forested land. Kibale Forest was declared a national park in 1993 and remains well protected today.
Kibale Forest National Park is teeming with wildlife
Kibale Forest National Park is full of wildlife. The national park supports a rich variety of animals. More than ten species of monkeys live here, including over 1500 chimpanzees, red colobus monkeys, blue monkeys and L’Hoest’s monkeys. Birds are everywhere. Over 370 bird species live here and the and the forest is also home to reptiles and countless insects. Many other animals live deep in the rainforest but are rarely seen. Forest elephants are one example. They are shy and avoid people. Unlike savanna elephants, they prefer to stay hidden. Only the very lucky may see one crossing the road while driving through the park. Kibale also shelters rare forest cats such as civet cats, genet cats, and the elusive golden cat. These animals are beautiful, quiet, and extremely difficult to spot.
There is a lot of things to do in Kibale National Park, but also outside
Most people come to Kibale Forest National Park to track wild chimpanzees on foot and then move on. We always suggest staying a little longer—at least two days. Kibale National Park is the great place to incorporate some rest into your Uganda safari. Aside from trekking chimpanzees, there are several other activities you can do, both inside the park and in the surrounding communities and swamps. We have listed our favorite activities for you:
1. Chimpanzee trekking
Chimpanzee trekking is the main activity in Kibale Forest National Park. Unlike savannah parks, game drives are not possible here. The forest is dense, and all activities are done on foot. Walking and hiking are part of every experience. This is especially true for chimpanzee trekking, where visitors follow forest trails in search of these fascinating primates.
2. Nature walk
Nature walks in Kibale Forest National Park are calm and rewarding. The forest is full of life. Along the trail, you may see colorful birds and several monkey species. Tall trees, thick shrubs, and small insects surround you. A ranger walks with you and explains the plants, animals, and hidden details of the forest as you go.
3. Bird Watching
Kibale Forest National Park rich rainforest supports over 370 bird spcies, from colorful forest specialists to rare and localized birds. Early mornings are especially rewarding, as bird calls fill the canopy and activity is high along the trails. Both experienced birders and beginners can enjoy rewarding sightings, guided by knowledgeable rangers who help identify birds by sight and sound. Kibale National Park is also an important stop on many Uganda birding routes. If you would like to learn more, explore our guide to birdwatching in Uganda.
4. Community activities
Community activities around Kibale Forest National Park offer a chance to mix nature with culture. The villages near the park welcome visitors with warmth. With a local guide, you can enjoy relaxed and meaningful encounters with the people who live here. A community walk is a great way to start, but there is much more to experience. You can visit a local coffee farmer, meet a traditional healer, or take part in a hands-on cooking workshop using local ingredients.
5. Swamp walks
Bigodi Wetland is one of the most famous wetlands around Kibale Forest. It is a community-run project that offer exciting swamp walks. The wetland is beautiful area for birdwatchers. It attract different birds than the lush green jungle. It is incredibly impressive, even for non-birdwatchers.
There are also the crater lakes on the north side of Kibale Forest National Park. You can go mountain biking there, for example. But you can also just spend a day at your lodge and enjoy the green surroundings from the pool.
Tours Featuring Kibale National Park
Talk To a friendly team
Gorilla Safaris
Contact
- +256 (704) 630 390
- +256 (394) 860 595
- info@trekwildgorillas.com
- wildfriendsug@gmail.com
