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$149/Pax

Kibale Forest National Park

Kabarole District (UG)

8 Days

Uganda

Max People: 08

Drive/Flight

8+ Age

Discount: 15%

Kibale Forest National Park is located in southern Uganda, near the picturesque foothills of the Rwenzori Mountains (“Mountains of the Moon”). It lies close to Fort Portal town, about 320 km (5-6 hours’ drive) from Kampala, and is adjacent to Queen Elizabeth National Park, creating an important wildlife corridor.

Quick Facts
  • Size: 795 km² (307 sq mi)
  • Established: 1993 (originally a forest reserve since 1932)
  • Altitude: 1,100–1,600 meters (3,600–5,250 ft)
  • Key Feature: Highest density of primates in Africa
  • UNESCO Status: Part of the Rwenzori Mountains Biosphere Reserve
Wildlife & Activities

Kibale is world-famous for its 13 primate species, including chimpanzees, and over 375 bird species.

Key Wildlife Sightings

  • Chimpanzees – Over 1,500 individuals, with several habituated groups for trekking.
  • Other Primates: Red colobus monkeys (endangered), L’Hoest’s monkeys, grey-cheeked mangabeys, and olive baboons.
  • Forest Elephants – Rare but present in the northern sector.
  • Birdlife: Great blue turaco, African grey parrot, and the rare green-breasted pitta.

Wildlife Zones & Sectors

  1. Kanyanchu Sector – Main area for chimpanzee tracking and birdwatching.
  2. Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary – A community-run swamp rich in primates and birds.
  3. Sebitoli Sector – Less crowded, ideal for nature walks and primate spotting.

Northern Kibale (Dura River Area) – Known for forest elephants and buffaloes.

Special Experiences
  • Chimpanzee Trekking – The park’s highlight (permits required).
  • Chimpanzee Habituation Experience – Spend a full day with researchers tracking semi-habituated chimps
  • Bigodi Wetland Walk – Spot monkeys, birds, and otters in this lush swamp.
  • Night Forest Walk – Discover nocturnal creatures like bushbabies and pangolins.
  • Birdwatching – A top destination for rare Albertine Rift endemics.
  • Community Visits – Engage with local Batoro and Bakiga cultures.
Best Time to Visit
  • Dry Seasons (June–September & December–February) – Best for trekking (trails are less muddy).
  • Wet Seasons (March–May & October–November) – Lush greenery, fewer tourists, and excellent bird activity.
Other Attractions Nearby
  • Crater Lakes Region – Scenic volcanic lakes near Fort Portal.
  • Amabere Caves & Nyakasura Falls – Cultural and geological wonders.
  • Queen Elizabeth National Park – Combine with a safari (2 hours’ drive).
Why Visit Kibale Forest?

Kibale offers the best chimpanzee tracking in Africa, along with diverse primates, birds, and immersive forest experiences. Its proximity to Fort Portal’s crater lakes makes it perfect for a primate-safari-scenery combo trip.

Best Place

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