Kibale National Park Uganda
Kibale national park covers an area of 795km2 and has the highest elevation at 1,590m above sea level and the lowest being 1,100m to the south close to the Albertine Rift Valley. It’s 310 km to the western region of Uganda from Kampala.The national park has 13 primate species, 70 mammal species among others and 351 tree species recorded, some rising over 55m and aging 200 yrs.
The different topographies in this area have been critical in tailoring habitats to different wildlife as each species thrives in a particular habitat ranging from wet tropical forest on the Fort Portal plateau to woodland and savanna on the rift valley floor.
ACTIVITIES
Chimp trekking
Javelins of light flicker through the trees as you set off for chimpanzee trekking. Soon you will notice a colobus troop, the shy monkeys that inhabit the upper realms of the canopy. Then the elongated tail of a Sykes monkey will appear, cautious yet inquisitive as you pass. You will wander beneath the awning, and your guide will clear a route with a machete as the undergrowth of the forest becomes thicker.
The chimpanzees have been located, but they never stick to the park’s open trails, so the final part of any primate trekking experience is a walk into the unknown and the sweeps of untrammeled green. You will hear them, and it will feel as though you can smell them too, but perhaps it’s just the whiff of something that contrasts with the forest’s freshness.
Bigodi community walk and birding
7am is ideal to start bird watching in Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, located just outside the park, as 138 bird species have been recorded in this area. Birds to identify include; Papyrus Gonolek, White-winged Warbler, White-collared Olive back, PapyrusCanary among others it’s important to note that the community in this area is has embraced sustainable tourism. The Ideal time for the community walks here is the afternoon when families back home.
Sunset canoeing on lake Nyabikere
A perfect way to relax after a busy day. Row your boat on lake Nyabikere as you enjoy the unforgettable sunset as beautiful birds scatter in trees and decorate the sky. The birds sing as the light diminishes, the water calms as you paddle on. There has never been a better time to make use of your camera.
