Semliki National Park

Semliki National Park is an eastern extension of the vast Ituri Forest and forms part of the forest continuum during the climatic upheavals of the Pleistocene; this is one of the richest areas for both flora and fauna in Africa. Semliki National Park is situated in the remote corner of extreme west of Uganda, in bundibugyo District. It lies on Uganda-Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) border within the western arm of the East African Rift Valley. The geographical coordinates are 0o 44′- 00 53′ N – 290 57-30o 11′E. To the southeast are the Rwenzori Mountains, to the west is DRC and to the north Lake Albert.
Semliki National Park (220sq km) gazetted in October 1993, is one of Uganda’s newest National Parks. The Park occupies a flat to gently undulating landform ranging from 670 -760 m above level. As all streams and rivers from the surrounding areas are flooded drain into the Park plus the poor drainage and topography, many areas are flooded during the rainy season. The average annual rainfall is 1250 mm with peaks from March to May and September and December. The temperature varies from 18o C – 30o C with relatively small daily variations.
Wildlife
For the average tourist, Semliki is arguably more attractive for its vast scenery and wild, untrammeled atmosphere than for its game viewing. However primates are well represented with black-and white colobus, olive baboon and red-tailed and velvet, chimpanzees in Mugiri River forest, all regularly observed. Leopards, lions and many other Cat species are also available.
Bird Life

The reserve is highly alluring to birdwatchers with over 300-400 species recorded and it is one of the most reliable sites in Uganda for shoebill.
Fantastic scenery, Hot springs, forest jungle walk, birding, primate viewing and river Semliki meanders are some of the ideal attractions. Surely, you don’t have to miss but get off the regular tourists’ circuit and spend three to five days camping and hiking in the only real jungle in East Africa.
Jungle life in Semliki is breathtaking especially for birders, primate, and butterfly and plant lovers. Of the 400 bird species recorded, the shoebill stork is regularly seen at close quarters on Lake Albert with almost 300 species of butterflies. The jungle walk usually takes you up to River Semliki meanders, the only one in East Africa with luck; you may see forest buffaloes and elephants, statungas, leopards, pigmy hippopotamus, crocodile primates and a wide range of forest and water birds. You can also come with fishing facilities for sport fishing along the river.
Where to stay
There is a camp site being developed inside the Park at Bumaga, about 3 km. From Sempaya Gate. You will be able to spend a night in one of the two Executive bandas, hire a tent or come with your own tent for camping. Another camp site to be run by a private organization is located in Sempaya adjacent to Sempaya Gate. There shall be small thatched shelters for cooking and eating. Cooking utensils will be for hire, but you must bring your own tent and food.

There are a number of natural hot springs in the area, which attracts large numbers of wetland birds, and supply salt for other animals. Sempaya Hot Springs is a mosaic of different micro habits which provide for a wide diversity of wildlife. The Semliki River is a favored watering point for many animals resident in the park.
Getting There and Away
There are two major roads from Kampala to Fort Portal: Kampala-Fort Portal via Mubende is about 180 Km. (about 4-5 hrs drive) while Kampala -Fort Portal via Masaka, Mbarara, and Kasese is about465 Km (7-8 hrs). In both routes 2-wheel drive vehicles can be useful. While the Kampala-Fort Portal via Mubende is much shorter, the Kampala-Fort Portal via Masaka, Mbarara and Kasese gives you opportunity to Visit Lake Mburo National Park, Kyambura Wildlife Reserve, Rwenzori Mountains National Park and Queen Elizabeth National Park.
From Fort Portal, A two to three hours drive on the rough road towards Bundibugyo will bring you to Sempaya Gate (52 Km). The Park headquarters at Ntandi is 5 Km further from the gate along the same route. A 4WD is recommended
Semliki Safaris
• Chimpanzee tracking tours
• Wildlife safaris
• Night game drives
• Primate trekking safaris
• Birding tours