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The most accessible of Uganda's major
rainforests, Kibale is home to a remarkable 13
primate species, including the very localised
red colobus and L'Hoest's monkey.
Kibale's major attraction, however, is the
opportunity to track habituated chimps - these
delightful apes, more closely related to humans
than to any other living creature, are
tremendous fun to watch as they squabble and
play in fruiting trees.
A network of shady forest trails provides much
to delight botanists and butterfly lovers, while
birders are in for a treat with 335 species
recorded including the endemic Prirogrine's
ground thrush.
The elusive forest elephant, smaller and hairier
than its savannah counterpart, moves seasonally
into the developed part of the park, while other
terrestrial mammals include buffalo, giant
forest hog and a half dozen antelope species.
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SIZE:
776 sq
km
LOCATION:
In the
west, near Fort Portal
GETTING THERE:
Fort
Portal lies 320km from Kampala along a mostly
surfaced direct road, or an hour's drive from
Kasese (near QENP). Kanyanchu Visitors Centre,
35km from Fort Portal, is reached via a dirt
road and is accessible on public transport..
WHAT TO DO:
Chimp tracking and other guided forest walks,
even night walks. Birders shouldn't miss Bigodi
Wetland Sanctuary, a superb community
development fringing the park. A field of
beautiful crater lakes lies between Fort Portal
and Kibale Forest.
WHEN TO VISIT:
Any time of year
WHERE TO STAY:
Primate Lodge (former Kanyanchu rest Camp),
with a luxury tented camp and upmarket lodge
nearby. Budget lodges at Bigodi, the crater
lakes, and Fort Portal.
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TANZANIA