Below are some of the top attractions and things to see in Kibale National Park.
Common Chimpanzee
Chimpanzees are one of the main species you will see in the forest. They belong to the primate family and live in trees, mostly eating fruits, insects, and sometimes meat. The primate family also includes monkeys, apes, and baboons.
To take part in any trekking activity, you must buy a permit from the Uganda Wildlife Authority. Before booking, your tour operator must check that you are 15 years or older.
Kanyanchu Visitor Centre
Some tourists may not know about Kanyanchu Visitor Centre, which is the starting point for many activities. It is also where travel documents are checked.
Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary
As you move deeper into the forest, you will reach Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, located in Magombe Swamp, about 6 km from Kanyanchu Information Centre in the southern part of Kibale.
The wetland is protected by the local people who live nearby. Many of them are trained as guides to help support eco-tourism and ensure visitors enjoy the beauty of the wetland.
Bigodi is home to many colorful birds, including the African grey parrot, crowned eagle, olive long-tailed cuckoo, green-breasted pitta, common fiscal, splendid billed weaver, and many others.
Butterflies also attract attention as they fly around, adding to the beauty of the experience. Bird lovers often spend time filming the birds. Note that this activity starts at 7:00 a.m. and may take the whole day, so carry snacks and water to avoid hunger and thirst.
If you want to see birds in their nests and hear them chirping, the best time to visit is from March to May, which is the dry season. To see migratory birds, visit in November or April. These birds travel long distances from other countries to stay in better conditions for a while before returning home.
Monkeys
Monkeys’ hands are always busy, jumping from one tree branch to another in groups as they search for food. There are many monkey species in Kibale National Park, and some of them include red-tailed monkeys, which are scientifically known as Cercopithecus ascanius.
Tribes & Villages
Explore the different tribes around Kibale National Park. These include the Batoro and a few Bakiga immigrants from the Kigezi region. The Batoro have a rich cultural heritage linked to their kingdom, which was once part of the ancient kingdoms of the Great Lakes Region of Africa. The kingdom is led by a King Oyo, known as the Omukama, who took power at a very young age after the death of his father.
Vegetation
Kibale National Park is filled with tropical rain-forest, large buttress mahoganies, swamps, and tall fruiting fig trees. The forest canopy reaches 60 meters in height and spreads across areas between 1,100 and 1,590 meters above sea level.
Bushcraft Games
Another thing to see is your children enjoying bushcraft games. Since children under 15 are not allowed to join chimpanzee trekking, special games are organized for them.
These activities are led by a kid-friendly and qualified guide who makes sure children are happy and safe. The games may include watching wildlife, birds, monkeys, trees, plants, baboons, and more.
Start planning your trip now for a great adventure.
Visit Kibale National Park in Uganda with these recommended Uganda chimpanzee companies or inquire with us below to book your tour directly through this website.
