Kalinzu central forest reserve is located in south-western Uganda in Bushenyi district, adjacent to Queen Elizabeth national park and Maramagambo forest. This protected area lies on an average altitude of 1400m above sea level and covers an area of 147 sq. km. the reserve is characterized by its diverse ecosystem consisting of dense tropical rainforest vegetation and a wide range of wildlife including elephants, leopards, waterbucks, wild pigs, buffaloes, gigantic forest hogs, and duikers. It is also home to 414 tree species, 97 moths, 262 butterflies, reptiles, and flowers, 378bird species, and 6 primate species including Baboons, Chimpanzees, Black and White colobus monkeys, Vervet monkeys, L’hoest and Blue monkeys. Kalinzu forest also hosts the nocturnal primates’ species including the galagos, pottos and bush babies

Activities Carried Out In Kalinzu Forest

  • Chimpanzee tracking in kalinzu forest

Chimpanzee tracking is the main activity carried out in kalinzu forest. The Central Forest Reserve hosts some of the largest chimp colonies in Uganda and it is arguably the second best place for chimpanzee tracking in Uganda after kibale national park. The forest hosts 320 chimpanzees and approximately 50 chimpanzees are habituated (open to tourism), offering a unique opportunity to observe these primates in their natural habitats. Most tourists from Queen Elizabeth National park prefer tracking chimps in Kalinzu forest despite the fact that the park has its own chimp community at Kyambura Gorge. It is easy to reach Kalinzu forest through the Mweya sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park. The drive only takes about 40 minutes. Kalinzu chimpanzee tracking permits are cheap compared to elsewhere in Uganda and tracking usually takes 3-4 hours

  • Nature walks

Guided nature walks in kalinzu forest are truly memorable and offer an extensive understanding of the dense forest filled with breathtaking views of the water falls, primate calls and singing birds. Hiking the kishunja hill view point can also offer you a panoramic view of the top of the forest as well as the Rwenzori mountain ranges and Queen Elizabeth national park.

Kalinzu central forest reserve has got 4 different nature walk trails which include;

The river trail; this is the best trail for chimpanzee tracking and it takes 1 hour to complete it. This trail also leads to river kajojo where elephants bath from.

The valley trail; this trail leads to spectacular views of the valley and forest canopies, its takes about 4hours to complete it and one can encounter different forest’s critters and primates.

The waterfall trail; offers enormous breath taking views of kalinzu forest and takes 4-6 hours leading to the exceptional kilyantama waterfall. The trail traverses through high elevation areas that display a beautiful landscape of the forest reserve.

The palm trail; on the other hand, this trail takes 2 hours of hiking the flat terrain with chances of seeing unique tree species such as the flame tree, the dragon tree and the Raphia palms which are used to make traditional mats.

  • Bird watching

Kalinzu forest is undoubtedly a true birders haven and one of the best birding destinations in Uganda. Bird watching is best done in the morning and the bird species include the Black and White Casket, Cuckoos, Great Blue Turaco, and Sunbirds among others. Expect to see other forest creatures, primates, flora, and breathtaking landscapes as you look out for the birds in Kalinzu Forest.

  • Wildlife viewing

The fact that the forest is located adjacent Queen Elizabeth national park and Maramagambo forest, kalinzu attracts some wildlife animals which include leopards, antelopes and warthogs that cross to eat in the forest. The forest area that connects to Queen Elizabeth national park also offers a great chance to witness some of the large mammals and even big cats.

  • Butterfly identification

 Have guided walk to the forest in the morning or evening and identify over 200 different types of butterflies hence adding richness to your kalinzu forest experience.

  • Camping

The forest offers a perfect site for camping activities, established in the center of the forest where tourists can sleep close to nature and enjoy a beautiful African night while listening to amazing sounds of the nocturnal creatures.

  • Research and conservation education

The Nkombe visitor’s center located in the northeastern part of kalinzu forest reserve facilitates research and conservation education activities for students and visitors alike. There are staff and rangers to give you information and make sure that your experience is fun and safe. Permission to access the forest must be obtained from them.

The best time to visit kalinzu forest

 Kalinzu forest is open throughout the year, but the ideal time is during the dry season, which runs from June to September and December to February making the forest trails passable hence ample conditions for hiking to see the primate.

Accommodation in kalinzu forest

 Currently there is no standard/formal lodging options inside Kalinzu Forest. Those who choose to camp may do so, but must provide their own bedding, food, and tents. The major camping area is near the forest offices (Nkombe forest station) however, it only offers minimal amenities such as solar-powered showers and pit latrines. Water and firewood may be arranged at the station or purchased at the local commercial center on the Kasese-Mbarara route.

Visitors can also use accommodation in Queen Elizabeth National Park which includes:

  • Mweya Safari Lodge: Located on the Mweya Peninsula, this lodge offers luxurious accommodation with stunning views of the Kazinga Channel. It’s an ideal place for relaxation and enjoying the park’s wildlife and landscapes.

  • Parkview Safari Lodge: This lodge offers a blend of comfort and nature, with a variety of rooms and a tranquil environment. It is situated within close proximity to Queen Elizabeth National Park and provides great access to the area’s activities.

  • Katara Lodge: Perched on the edge of the park, Katara Lodge offers breathtaking views of the park’s savannah and lakes. With spacious rooms and an eco-friendly atmosphere, it provides an excellent base for exploring the surrounding area.

  • Engiri Game Lodge: This lodge provides a more intimate, mid-range accommodation option. It offers a peaceful setting with comfortable rooms and easy access to the nearby park and Kalinzu Forest.

  • Enganzi Game Lodge: Located near the park, Enganzi offers well-appointed cottages with fantastic views of the wildlife-rich surroundings. It provides a serene escape for visitors.

  • Kingfisher Lodge: Known for its scenic location and high-quality service, Kingfisher Lodge offers both luxury and comfort with spacious rooms and access to beautiful nature walks and safaris in the area.

How to get to kalinzu forest

Kalinzu forest is strategically along the Mbarara- kasese highway 375km from Kampala city close to the Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth national park.