Kibale Forest National Park covers 795 square kilometers, ranging from 1,100m to 1,590m in altitude. This diverse elevation supports an impressive variety of flora and fauna, including 351 tree species, some over 200 years old and towering above the forest floor.
The park’s lush wilderness creates an enchanting atmosphere. The air is fresh with morning dew and the scents of endemic flowers, mingled with the musty odors of monkeys swinging through the canopy. The symphony of sounds includes the hoots of red colobus monkeys, exotic bird calls, and occasionally the rumble of elephants moving through the dense foliage.
Kibale is renowned for its chimpanzee population, the largest in Uganda, with over 1,500 individuals. It is a prime destination for tracking wild, habituated chimpanzees. The park also hosts 13 monkey species, including the grey-cheeked mangabey, red colobus, and the rarely seen L’Hoest’s monkey.
Bird enthusiasts will find Kibale particularly rewarding, with over 375 species recorded, such as the Kibale Forest thrush and African grey parrot. The park adjoins Queen Elizabeth National Park, creating a 180km wildlife corridor that enhances its ecological importance.
Kibale Forest National Park is accessible from two main routes.
From Kampala or Entebbe, you can travel north via Mubende and Fort Portal. This route offers a scenic journey through the Ugandan countryside, with opportunities to experience the varied landscapes and local communities along the way.
Alternatively, you can reach Kibale from the south by traveling through Mbarara and Kamwenge. This route also provides a rich travel experience, passing through beautiful terrain and vibrant towns.
Both routes lead to the park, allowing you to choose based on your travel preferences and the experiences you wish to have along the way.
