Kibale National Park
Nestled in western Uganda, Kibale National Park is renowned as the “Primate Capital of the World.” Spanning 795 km², this lush tropical rainforest is home to over 70 mammal species, including 13 primates such as chimpanzees, red colobus, and L’Hoest’s monkeys. With more than 375 bird species, 200 butterfly species, and 70 reptile species, the park offers a rich tapestry of biodiversity .
Home of the primates
Kibale national Park is renowned for its extraordinary population of primates and in particular it’s chimpanzees. Walk through the forest on a guided trek to observe chimpanzees in their natural habitat. With five habituated communities, treks are available twice daily from the Kanyanchu Visitors’ Center. Or if you fancy a deeper experience, participate in the chimpanzee habituation program, spending extended hours with researchers to understand chimpanzee behavior.
Explore Kibale National Park
Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary: Explore this community-run sanctuary offering guided walks through diverse ecosystems, ideal for birdwatching and immersing in local culture.
Night Forest Walks: Experience the forest after dark, encountering nocturnal creatures like bush babies and tree hyraxes on guided walks starting around 7:30 PM.
Crater Lakes Tours: Visit nearby crater lakes such as Lake Kifuruka and Lake Mwamba, accessible via scenic walks and canoe rides, offering serene landscapes and birdwatching opportunities.
How to get there
Kibale National Park is approximately a 5-6 hour drive from Kampala, with the Kanyanchu Visitors’ Center about 35 km from Fort Portal town, accessible via the tarred Fort Portal–Kamwenge route .
Climate
Kibale National Park has a tropical rainforest climate, characterized by warm and humid conditions year-round. Average temperatures range between 20°C and 27°C (68°F–81°F). The park experiences two main rainy seasons:
March to May – long rains
September to November – short rains
Humidity is generally high due to the dense forest cover, and rainfall supports the park’s rich biodiversity, including its famous primates and diverse bird species.
Best Time To Visit
The dry seasons are typically December to February and June to August, which are ideal for wildlife viewing and chimpanzee trekking.
Facts
Location: Western Uganda, near Fort Portal
Size: 795 km² of tropical rainforest
Famous for: Chimpanzee trekking and primate diversity
Wildlife: 13 primate species, 70+ mammals, 375+ birds, 200+ butterflies
Activities: Chimpanzee trekking, habituation experiences, Bigodi Wetland walks, night forest walks, crater lake tours
Climate: Tropical rainforest, warm and humid year-round, with two rainy seasons
Accessibility: About 5–6 hours from Kampala, main entry via Kanyanchu Visitors’ Center
Most Common Animals
Primates:
Chimpanzees
Red colobus monkeys
L’Hoest’s monkeys
Black-and-white colobus monkeys
Olive baboons
Blue monkeys
Grey-cheeked mangabeys
Potto
Bush babies
Other Mammals:
African elephants (occasionally)
Bush pigs
Bushbucks
Giant forest hogs
Leopards (rare)
Civets
Galagos
Birds:
Great blue turaco
African green broadbill
Black-and-white-casqued hornbill
Yellow-billed turaco
375+ species overall
Reptiles & Amphibians:
Chameleons
Tree frogs
Snakes
Insects:
Over 200 butterfly species
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