Kibale National Park

Kibale National Park, located in western Uganda, is a lush tropical rainforest famous for its incredible primate diversity and rich biodiversity. Covering about 321 km², it is often called the “primate capital of the world” thanks to its large population of chimpanzees estimated at over 1,500 individuals, distributed across at least 12 distinct communities. Four of these communities have been habituated for tourism and research, with the Kanyantale chimpanzee community being the most prominent for visitor tracking. The park features a beautiful mix of evergreen forest, woodland, and swamp habitats, supporting over 120 mammal species and more than 370 bird species. Its dense canopy, vibrant wildlife, and renowned chimpanzee trekking experiences make Kibale one of Uganda’s most rewarding and immersive nature destinations.

Although Kibale National Park is accessible throughout the year, the Best time to Visit the park is during the dry season when the trails are dry and passable. This runs from December to February and then from June to September.

The park is home to over 120 other mammal species, including olive baboons, forest elephants, bush pigs, duikers, and rare antelope species. Bird enthusiasts will be equally delighted, as Kibale shelters approximately 370 bird species, with 23 Albertine Rift endemics such as;

• Nahan’s francolin – a globally threatened ground-dwelling bird
• Cassin’s spinetail – a fast-flying forest-dweller
• Blue-headed bee-eater – a strikingly colorful species often spotted along forest edges
• Lowland masked apalis – an elusive warbler found in dense vegetation