Kibale Forest National Park is the primate capital of Africa located in the districts of Kabarole and Kamwenge, approximately 320 kilometres (200 mi), by road, west of Kampala, Uganda’s capital and largest city.

It is 766 km2 in size and is located between 1100 and 1600 meters in elevation. Despite encompassing primarily moist evergreen forest, it contains a diverse array of landscapes. Kibale is one of the last remaining expanses to contain both lowland and montane forests.

Kibale National Forest has one of the highest diversity and concentration of primates in Africa. It is home to a large number of endangered chimpanzees thus famous for chimpanzee tracking adventures, as well as the red colobus monkeyand the rare L’Hoest’s monkey. The park is also home to over 325 species of birds, 4 wild fellids, various species of primates, a total of at least 60 other species of mammals and over 250 tree species. The predominant ecosystem in Kibale is moist evergreen and semi-deciduous forest.

Kibale Forest National Park

Chimpanzee trekking experience in Kibale Forest National Park

Unique Kibale Forest National Park

  • Primate Capital of the World
  • Chimpanzee Habituation
  • Biodiversity Hotspot
  • Birdwatcher’s Paradise
  • Lush Tropical Rainforest
  • Unique Forest Walks
  • Night Forest Walks
  • Location
  • Part of Albertine Rift Valley

 

Wildlife Found in Kibale Forest National Park

Kibale National Park, located in western Uganda, is renowned for its incredible biodiversity, particularly its primate populations. The park is often referred to as the “Primate Capital of the World,” hosting 13 species of primates, making it one of the richest ecosystems for primate conservation and study.

The Common Chimpanzee (Pan troglodytes) is the park’s flagship species, with several well-habituated communities that have been the focus of extensive research and conservation efforts. Visitors can experience chimpanzee tracking, an exhilarating activity that allows for close encounters with these intelligent and social creatures. Kibale is also home to several species of Central African monkeys, including the Uganda Mangabey (Lophocebus ugandae), the Ugandan Red Colobus (Procolobus tephrosceles), and the L’Hoest’s Monkey (Cercopithecus lhoesti). Other primates include the Black-and-White Colobus (Colobus guereza) and the Blue Monkey (Cercopithecus mitis). With such diverse primate species, the park offers unparalleled opportunities for primate enthusiasts.

Beyond primates, Kibale also hosts an array of terrestrial mammals. Elephants, though not as frequently seen, are known to migrate between Kibale and nearby Queen Elizabeth National Park. Other large mammals in the park include buffalo, bushpigs, warthogs, and antelope species such as the red and blue duikers. Occasionally, visitors may spot leopards, and while rare, lions are known to occasionally venture into the park. Two species of otters also inhabit the park’s wetlands, contributing to its rich carnivore population.

For bird lovers, Kibale National Park is a true haven. With over 325 bird species, it is a birdwatcher’s paradise. Notable birds include the olive long-tailed cuckoo, the Western green tinkerbird, and two species of pittas – the African pitta and the Green-breasted pitta. The park is also home to the vibrant and charismatic African Grey Parrot, as well as the elusive ground thrush (Turdus kibalensis), which is a prized sighting for keen birders.

This incredible diversity of wildlife, combined with the park’s lush rainforest, makes Kibale National Park one of Uganda’s most treasured ecosystems for both primate research and ecotourism.

Things to Do in Kibale Forest National Park

Kibale National Park offers a wide range of exciting activities that immerse visitors in the beauty of Uganda’s rich biodiversity. Renowned for its stunning rainforest and impressive wildlife, particularly its primate populations, the park is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. Here are some of the top things to do in Kibale National Park:

1. Chimpanzee Tracking

One of the main highlights of Kibale is chimpanzee tracking, offering a thrilling opportunity to observe these intelligent primates in their natural habitat. Kibale is home to several well-habituated chimpanzee communities, allowing visitors to get up close and watch their social behavior, communication, and foraging activities. The experience of watching wild chimpanzees swing through the forest canopy and interact with one another is unforgettable. Chimpanzee tracking tours usually last between 2 to 4 hours, with groups led by experienced guides who share insights into the chimpanzees’ ecology and behavior.

2. Chimpanzee Habituation Experience

For those who want a more in-depth encounter, the Chimpanzee Habituation Experience allows visitors to spend an entire day with researchers and guides, following and observing chimpanzees as they go about their daily activities. This immersive experience provides a deeper understanding of how these primates are habituated to human presence and offers more time to observe their natural behavior compared to regular tracking.

3. Nature Walks and Forest Hikes

Kibale’s lush rainforest is perfect for guided nature walks and forest hikes. The park’s diverse flora and fauna make every hike a unique experience, with opportunities to spot various primates, butterflies, and birds along the trails. Nature walks range from short walks to longer treks, including hikes through the Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, a community-run reserve located just outside the park. The sanctuary is rich in birdlife and home to several primates, offering excellent birdwatching and wildlife viewing opportunities.

4. Bird Watching in Kibale Forest National Park

With over 325 species of birds, Kibale National Park is a birdwatcher’s paradise. The park’s birding trails take you through dense forests, wetlands, and open areas where you can spot colorful species such as the African Grey Parrot, Green-breasted Pitta, African Pitta, and the Western Green Tinkerbird. The nearby Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary is another prime spot for birdwatching, with species like the Great Blue Turaco and the Papyrus Gonolek frequently seen.

5. Primate Watching in Kibale Forest National Park

Beyond chimpanzees, Kibale National Park is home to 12 other primate species, making it a top destination for primate watching. During forest walks, visitors can spot species like the Ugandan Red Colobus, L’Hoest’s Monkey, Black-and-White Colobus, and the Blue Monkey. Kibale offers one of the best opportunities in Africa to observe such a wide variety of primates in a single location.

6. Cultural Encounters in Kibale Forest National Park

For a more holistic experience, visitors can engage in cultural encounters with the local communities living around the park. The Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary is run by the local community, and visitors can take part in cultural tours that include visiting traditional homesteads, learning about local crafts, and experiencing the culture of the Batooro and Bakiga people. These experiences offer a unique insight into the lifestyle, traditions, and conservation efforts of the communities living near Kibale.

7. Nocturnal Forest Walks in Kibale Forest National Park

For a completely different adventure, Kibale National Park offers nocturnal forest walks that allow visitors to explore the park after dark. Equipped with flashlights and accompanied by experienced guides, you’ll venture into the forest to spot the park’s night-dwelling creatures, including bush babies, pottos, and night-active birds like the African Wood Owl. This activity is a great way to experience the forest’s atmosphere at night and encounter wildlife that is typically hidden during the day.

8. Exploring Crater Lakes around Kibale Forest National Park

The scenic crater lakes surrounding Kibale National Park add an extra layer of adventure for visitors. Hiking around the beautiful crater lakes offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, and the lakes themselves are serene spots for relaxation, photography, and birdwatching. These hikes also pass through local villages, giving you a glimpse of rural life in Uganda.

How to Get To Kibale Forest National Park

Kibale National Park is located in western Uganda, near the town of Fort Portal, and is approximately 320 kilometers (199 miles) from Kampala, Uganda’s capital. The park is easily accessible by both road and air, with various travel options to suit different preferences.

By Road

  • Duration: Approximately 6 to 7 hours.
  • Route: The most common and scenic route to Kibale is via Kampala to Fort Portal, a journey that takes about 4 to 5 hours on a paved road. From Fort Portal, it’s an additional 1-hour drive to the Kanyanchu Visitor Centre, the main starting point for chimpanzee tracking and other activities.
    • The route follows the Kampala-Mubende-Fort Portal Road, which is well-maintained, passing through small towns, lush tea plantations, and rolling hills.

By Air

  • Duration: 1 hour (flight) + 1-hour drive to the park.

For those looking to reduce travel time, there are domestic charter flights available from Entebbe International Airport or Kajjansi Airfield (near Kampala) to Kasese Airstrip These airstrips are located near Fort Portal, from where you can take a one-hour drive to Kibale National Park.

Charter flight services are offered by companies such as Aerolink Uganda

This option is more expensive but offers a fast and scenic journey with stunning aerial views of Uganda’s landscapes.