Kibale Forest National Park

The drama of life in a rain forest can be observed in the Kibale Forest National Park, situated to the north-east of Queen Elizabeth National Park. Kibale National Park is one of the most beautiful and stunning forests in Uganda. The Park is noted for its primate population. The forest also boasts of having one of the highest diversity and density of primates in Africa totaling 13 species that include the threatened Red Colobus monkey, I’hoesti monkey Blue monkey, Velvet, Grey Cheeked, and the Black / White Colobus monkeys.

Kibale Chimpanzee

Kibale National Park is one of the beautiful and stunning forests in the Uganda. The forest and the grasslands support abundant birdlife. Almost 300 species have been identified and 144 types of butterfly.
With lush tropical rain forest and a fascinating diversity of animals, Kibale Forest National Park is home to one of the most beautiful and stunning natural forests in Uganda. It is home tour closest relative – the endangered Chimpanzee.
Kibale’s major attraction, however, is the opportunity to track habituated chimps – these delightful apes, more closely related to humans than to any other living creature, are tremendous fun to watch as they squabble and play in fruiting trees.
The elusive forest elephant, smaller and hairier than its savannah counterpart, moves seasonally into the developed part of the park, while other terrestrial mammals include buffalo, giant forest hog and a half dozen antelope species.

Birds

Key bird spices in Kdepo Park include, African Swallow-tailed kite,Pygmy Falcon, Bruce’s Green Pigeon, Rose-ringed Parakeet, Kori, The Yellow-necked Spurgrouse and several other birds.

A tourist in Kibale Park finding his way through

Kibale National Park Safaris

The Kanyanchu Tourist Center is where all activities begin. The friendly and experienced ranger guides will share their knowledge on forest species with you. Some 12 primate species, elephants, butterflies, reptiles, amphibians, trees, medicinal plants, and of course, habituated chimpanzee’s are to be found here.

Forest Hike – This is a seasonal 12 km hike that is restricted to the dry season i.e. from mid-November to February and June to September. It highlights the diverse habitats of the park including tropical rain forest, riverine forest, swamp and grassland.
You will have the chance to see a variety of birds and monkeys and perhaps duikers and bush pigs. The walk begins at 8.00am from Kanyanchu concluding at the elephant wallow in the afternoon hours.
Primate Walk – This activity starts from the camp at 8.00a.m and last for 2-4 hours. The activity is soundly popular with visitors highlighting the diversity of primates within the forest. Although it is not guaranteed, the chances of viewing the Chimps are in your favor (in excess of 85%). This walk is restricted to 4 groups of 4 individuals. Both morning and afternoon sessions are conducted.

Getting there and away

Fort Portal lies 320km from Kampala along a mostly surfaced direct road, an hour’s drive from Kasese -near Queen Elizabeth National Park. Kanyanchu Visitors Centre, 35km from Fort Portal, is reached via a dirt road and is accessible on public transport.

Other Safari Activities
• Bird watching
• Chimp Tracking
• Guided forest walks