Day: November 14, 2024

Nov

2024

Kibale Forest National Park

Spreading over 766 square kilometers of Land, Kibale Forest National Park is one of Uganda’s tourist destinations located in western Uganda. The rainforest is a haven for nature enthusiasts, offering a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the heart of the African rainforest. Kibale Forest is also known as “the Primates Capital of Africa” Renowned for its diverse wildlife, particularly its chimpanzee population and several colobus monkeys. For any primate lover coming for a Uganda tour, Kibale is a must-visit destination. The Park is a popular tourist destination in the Pearl of Africa, known for its chimpanzee trekking and other wildlife viewing opportunities.

There are 13 species of primates in Kibale National Park. The park protects several well-studied habituated communities of common chimpanzee, as well as several species of Central African monkey including the Uganda mangabey (Lophocebus ugandae), the Ugandan red colobus (Procolobus tephrosceles) and the L’Hoest’s monkey. In addition to the primates, Kibale Forest is also home to a variety of other mammals, including elephants, buffalo, and leopards.

Vegetation in Kibale Forest National Park comprises both lowland and montane forests which favor the habitation of various primates, birds, and other wildlife in the park. Kibale forest contains the largest pre-montane forest in eastern Africa which makes it a distinct destination

Top things to do and see in Kibale Forest National Park

Kibale Forest National Park offers a wide range of things to see and do for travelers visiting. You can choose any of the activities to take part of choose different activities to enjoy the best of this rainforest. Authentic Africa Safaris is your reliable guide on Uganda’s safari to Kibale Forest National Park. The top things to do in Kibale Forest National Park include:

Chimpanzee Trekking

One of the most popular activities in Kibale is chimpanzee trekking. This exciting experience allows visitors to track these intelligent primates through the dense forest, observing their natural behaviors firsthand. Kibale Forest National Park boasts a significant population of habituated chimpanzees which gives many travelers a chance to encounter these endangered primates. Trekking to see chimpanzees is quiet but worth it. Spend an hour with chimpanzees who put on a wonderful display, posing, chilling & playing around travelers. Take time to learn about the chimps, their habits, and their lifestyle. Each permit to trek chimpanzees in Kibale Forest National Park costs $250 for foreign nonresidents, $200 for foreign residents, and 250,000 shillings. Authentic Africa Safaris helps you secure permits in time and also arranges a tailor-made chimpanzee trekking package suitable for your budget, time, and interests

Bigodi Wetland Walk

For a different perspective on the park’s biodiversity, embark on a Bigodi Wetland Walk. This scenic trail takes you through a lush wetland ecosystem, home to a variety of bird species, primates, and other wildlife. Guided nature walks offer insights into the unique flora and fauna of the wetland, as well as the importance of wetland conservation. Nature walking in Bigodi wetland is a unique way of discovering the hidden gem in Kibale Forest National Park.

Bird Watching

For birders, Kibale Forest National Park is home to over 370 bird species and is one of the Important Birding Areas in Uganda. Kibale Forest is a birder’s paradise, with over 370 bird species recorded. The park’s diverse habitats, ranging from lowland rainforest to montane forest, support a wide range of avian life. Early morning bird walks offer the best opportunity to spot a variety of colorful birds, including forest giants like the Great Blue Turaco. The notable birds to see in Kibale Forest National park include African Pied Wagtail, Tropical Boubou, Pin-tailed Whydah, Great Blu Turaco, Afep Pigeon, Little green bul, African Pitta, Ruwenzori Apalis, Black-capped Apalis, Grey Parrot, Western Nicator and Crowned Eagle among others. Birding in Kibale Forest National Park can be done all year round but March to May and September to November is the best time for birding in Kibale Forest National park

Butterfly Watching

Butterfly Watching is yet another interesting experience done in Kibale Forest National Park. Travel enthusiasts will also be delighted by Kibale’s vibrant butterfly population. The park’s lush vegetation provides an ideal environment for these delicate creatures, and guided butterfly walks offer a chance to observe and photograph a variety of species.

Accommodation in Kibale Forest National park

Wondering where to stay in Kibale Forest National Park? No worries, a variety of accommodation facilities both budget. Midrange and Luxury have been put up to offer you with excellent and affordable food and sleeping services. Kibale Forest National Park offers a range of accommodation options to suit various budgets and preferences. From budget-friendly campsites to luxurious lodges, there’s something suitable for everyone.

Many accommodations provide comfortable rooms, delicious meals, and opportunities to relax and unwind after a day of adventure. Some of the top places to stay in Kibale Forest National Park include Primates Lodge, Chimpundu Lodge, Kibale Forest Camp, Chimpanzee Forest Lodge, Crater Safari Lodge, Ndali Lodge, Kyaninga Lodge, Kibale River Camp, Amaraga Rift Valley Lodge, Chimpanzee Forest Guest House and Isunga lodge among others. Authentic Africa Safaris helps you to book and reserve a room at your favorite lodge in Kibale Forest National Park

Best Time to Visit Kibale Forest National Park

Whereas you can visit Kibale Forest throughout the year, the dry season, from December to February and June to August, is the best time to visit Kibale Forest. During these months, the weather is pleasant, and the forest trails are less muddy. However, the park can be crowded during peak season, so it’s advisable to book accommodations and permits in advance.

What to Pack to Kibale Forest National Park

Just like in other primate parks in Uganda, travelers to Kibale Forest National Park are reminded to carry the essentials to ensure a peaceful and enjoyable chimpanzee trekking experience. Some of the things you should carry when visiting Kibale Forest include:

Sturdy hiking boots
Long pants and long-sleeved shirts
Rain jacket
Insect repellent
Sunscreen
Hat
Water bottle
Binoculars
Camera
Backpack
Snacks
First-aid kit
Passport and visa (if required)

How to get to Kibale Forest National Park

There are two main ways to get to Kibale Forest National Park. You can access Kibale Forest either by road or air. When using rod transport, there are two main routes to go to Kibale Forest National Park. These are:

Northern Route: This is the most popular and quickest route, it’s the shortest route. It involves driving from Kampala to Fort Portal on a tarmac road covering roughly 300km). From Fort Portal, you drive on a muraam road for about 36km to reach the Kanyanchu Visitor Centre, the main entrance to Kibale Forest National Park.

Southern Route: This route is longer but offers scenic views. It involves driving from Kampala to Mbarara, then to Kamwenge, and finally to the park. This route is less traveled and can be more challenging, especially during the rainy season.

By Air:

Charter a flight from Entebbe International Airport to either Nyakisharara Airstrip near Mbarara or Kasese Airstrip. From these airstrips, you’ll need to hire a car or arrange for a transfer to reach the park. This is a faster option, but it’s also more expensive.

NOTE:

You can take a public bus from Kampala to Fort Portal. However, this option is less convenient and can be time-consuming.

Conclusively, Kibale Forest National park is a must-visit on any Uganda safari. Book a chimpanzee trekking safari to Kibale Forest, come and enjoy the hidden gem in “Primates Capital of Africa” with Authentic Africa Safaris

Nov

2024

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National park

Nestled in southwestern Uganda shared between Kabale, Rubanda and Kanungu districts, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park is a UNESCO world site, home to the world’s highest gorilla population. The lust impenetrable forest is a sanctuary for a multitude of wildlife and is also renowned for its diverse Biodiversity. The Impenetrable Forest was gazetted in 1991 solely to conserve the endangered mountain gorillas and promote sustainable gorilla trekking in Uganda. The ancient Bwindi Impenetrable Forest shelters over 500 mountain gorillas which makes it a haven for the endangered gorillas. A trek through the dense rainforest to encounter these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat is a truly unforgettable experience.

In addition to mountain gorillas, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park is a hotspot of biodiversity. The forest is a haven for over 120 mammal species, including chimpanzees, colobus monkeys, and numerous forest dwellers. The dense forest is also a birder’s haven sheltering over 350 birds some of which are endemic and rarely found anywhere else in the world.

Regarding landscape in Bwindi, the forest is comprised of rugged terrain, characterized by steep valleys, towering ridges, and cascading waterfalls which together create a breathtaking landscape. The dense vegetation, lush undergrowth, and diverse flora and fauna make this park a truly enchanting place.

The park is surrounded by local communities mainly Batwa pygmies and Bakiga who offer visitors a unique opportunity to learn about their culture and traditions. The Batwa people, the original inhabitants of the forest, have a deep connection to the land and its resources.

Gorilla trekking in Bwindi Forest

Attracting over 99% of travelers to Bwindi Forest mountain gorilla trekking is the main tourist activity in Bwindi Forest. Yes, a close encounter with the endangered gorillas is a focus for all travelers to Bwindi Forest. 21 gorilla families have been habituated to ease gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park. Gorilla trekking is done in any of the four gorilla regions which make up the park. Gorilla trekking packages in Bwindi Forest Vary from 1 day of Uganda gorilla trekking to over 10 Days of Uganda gorillas and wildlife safari. We customize our Bwindi gorilla trekking packages to suit every traveler’s interest, time, and budget. You can trek two different gorilla families in different regions for a more intimate gorilla encounter. The allowed gorilla trekking time is strictly an hour

Best Time to Visit Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park

The dry months of June, July August, December, January, and February, are the ideal times to visit Bwindi Forest. The dry season is characterized by less or no rains which make the trekking trails less muddy and slippery. Also, the chances of rain showers in the dry season are minimal which assures travelers of comfortable and less stressful gorilla encounters. The season is also best for photography. However, gorilla permits end to sell out fast during the dry season due to high demand. Travelers are therefore reminded to reserve permits at least 6 months in advance if possible to avoid disappointments.

For budget travelers, low or wet season in March, April, May, September, October, and November is the ideal time. This season normally comes with discounted offers from lodges, hotels, and other service providers. However, the season is generally rainy which make walking trails muddy and slippery makes it strenuous to trek through

What to Pack to Bwindi Forest

Travelers visiting Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park are always reminded to pack the right gear to ensure comfort and less stress. The essential gear to pack for gorilla trekking in Bwindi Forest include Sturdy hiking boots with good ankle support, Waterproof jacket and pants, Warm layers for cooler evenings, Long-sleeved shirts and pants to protect against insects, Insect repellent, Sunscreen, Hat, Water bottle, Snacks, Camera, Binoculars

In addition to the gear, travelers are also required to carry documents such as Passport, Visa (if required), and Gorilla trekking permit

Gorilla Families in Bwindi Forest

As of today November 2024, the total of gorilla families in Bwindi Forest National Park stands at 21. These are shared between the four gorilla regions of Bwindi Forest Park. The habituated gorilla groups in Bwindi Forest include Mubare family, Rushegura family, Habinyanja Family, Nkuringo family, Bweza Family, Katwe Family, Christmas Family, Mishaya Family, Kutu Family, Oruzogo Family, Busingye Family, Rwigi Family, Posho family, Bikingyi Family, Kyaguliro Family, Muyambi Family, Bitukura family, Mukiza Family, Bushaho Family, Kahungye family, Mucunguzi family and Bushaho family among others. Each gorilla family is visited by eight people for an hour

Gorilla Trekking Rules in Bwindi Forest

To ensure the well-being of the gorillas and a positive experience for visitors, gorilla trekking rules and guidelines have been put in place. Park wardens introduce these regulations to travelers at the start of each trekking day. These include keeping a minimum distance of 7 meters from the gorillas, moving slowly and quietly to avoid startling the gorillas, not using flashlight cameras which can stress the gorillas, not trekking when sick to avoid human-wildlife transmission, not touching the gorillas, not eating in the presence of gorillas and not touching the gorillas.

Activities Beyond Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Forest

In addition to gorilla trekking, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park offers travelers with extra experiences to make a complete package. The other activities in the Bwindi forest include:

Birdwatching: Bwindi Forest is a birder’s paradise, with over 350 bird species, including numerous Albertine Rift endemics.
Nature Walks: Take part in guided nature walks to explore the diverse flora and fauna of the forest.
Cultural Experiences: Visit and interact with the Bakiga and Batwa people, the original inhabitants of the forest to learn about their traditional way of life.
Community Tourism: Visit nearby communities and support local initiatives.

Gorilla Habituation experience

Done in Rushaga sector, south of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, the gorilla habituation experience is an experience of its kind. The experience is a process of training wild gorillas making them get used to people. The process takes between 2-3 years and a team of rangers, conservationists and gorilla doctors take part in this experience daily for the two years. Four travelers are allowed to take part in the gorilla habituation experience. Two gorilla families are undergoing habituation hence 8 permits are issued each day. The fours encounter with wild gorillas costs $1500 per permit!

How to plan a gorilla safari to Bwindi Forest National Park

For any person planning a gorilla trekking safari to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, ensure the following

Book Permits in advance: The fact that mountain gorilla permits are limited and offered on a first come first serve basis, you ought to book in advance. The earlier the better for you! Booking Uganda gorilla permits can be done through the Uganda Wildlife Authority. Also, Authentic Africa Safaris can help you reserve and book gorilla permits for you! Each gorilla trekking permit in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park costs $1500

Book Accommodation: You are also reminded to book your accommodation on time. Ensure to book a lodge in the same gorilla region you are trekking from. Bwindi Forest is divided into four regions (Buhoma, Rushaga, Nkuringo and Ruhija). These regions are far apart and travelers are advised to book lodges in the same region they are trekking gorillas from. A range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly campsites to luxury lodges, are available within and around the park. Authentic Africa Safaris can help you book your favorite lodge

Transportation: 4WD vehicles are recommended to access the park’s remote areas. Bwindi Forest is situated on a higher elevation and roads can be slippery in the rainy season, A 4×4 wheel is therefore recommended for easy access

Book through a tour operator: Whereas you can book for permits and also travel to Bwindi yourself, booking your Bwindi Gorilla tour via a travel operator is highly advised. At Authentic Africa Safaris, we offer tailor-made gorilla tour packages to Bwindi suitable for all kinds of travelers on every budget. We also have a team of experienced guides Hiring a knowledgeable guide is essential for a rewarding experience

How to get to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National park

Access to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National park can be by either road or air. By air, you fly from Kajjansi airstrip to Kihihi or Kisoro airstrips and then connect to Bwindi Forest. Flight time is 45 minutes.

By Road:

Here you can choose to either self-drive to Bwindi or join a tour company that provides you transport and a driver guide to and from Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National park. The drive time is between 9-10 hours.

What you should know

Having been set for a gorilla trekking holiday in Bwindi impenetrable Forest National Park, you are reminded of the following:
Gorilla trekking begins at 7:00 am with a pore gorilla trekking briefing at the park headquarters.
After a briefing at the park headquarters, you’ll be transported to the specific trailhead where your gorilla trekking adventure begins.

The exact number of gorilla families in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park can fluctuate over time due to births, deaths, and group splits. However, several well-known families are popular for gorilla trekking:

Conclusively, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park is the prime gorilla destination in Africa. Contact Authentic Africa Safaris for a customized gorilla tour package to Bwindi Forest