Kibale National Park

Kibale National Park is one of Uganda’s most famous wildlife reserves

primarily known for its large population of primates, including the highest concentration of chimpanzees in East Africa. Located in western Uganda, the park covers approximately 795 square kilometers and boasts a mix of tropical rainforest, grassland, and swamp habitats, making it a haven for biodiversity.

Kibale National Park is about a 5-hour drive from Kampala and is often visited in combination with nearby Queen Elizabeth National Park for a comprehensive safari experience. It’s a must-visit for nature lovers and those interested in primate conservation. Would you like to know more about planning a visit or specific activities?

Key Highlights of Kibale National Park:

1. Chimpanzee Trekking: The park is renowned for its chimpanzee trekking experiences, where visitors can observe these intelligent primates in their natural habitat. Treks are led by expert guides who help visitors locate and learn about chimpanzee behavior and social structures.
2. Primate Diversity: Kibale is known as the “Primate Capital of the World” for a reason. Besides chimpanzees, the park is home to 13 primate species, including red colobus monkeys, black-and-white colobus, L’Hoest’s monkeys, blue monkeys, and the rare Ugandan mangabey.
3. Bird Watching: With over 370 bird species, Kibale is a fantastic destination for bird watchers. Species such as the African grey parrot, green-breasted pitta, and the African pitta can be found here, along with a variety of other forest birds.
4. Nature Walks and Hikes: The Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, located near Kibale, offers guided nature walks where visitors can enjoy the lush swamp ecosystem and spot various bird species, monkeys, butterflies, and even sitatunga antelopes.
5. Cultural Experiences: Near the park, visitors can engage with local communities and learn about the traditions and customs of the Batooro and Bakiga people, who live around Kibale. Activities include storytelling, dance, and handicraft-making, giving a glimpse into rural Ugandan life.
6. Nocturnal Walks: Unique to Kibale, these guided night walks allow visitors to explore the forest after dark, when nocturnal animals like bush babies, potto, and owls are active.