Alive with the moist evergreen of tropical rainforest and a fascinating diversity of animals, Kibale National Park, Uganda is one of the most stunning forests in Uganda. The park was created in 1933 in order to protect a large area of forest previously known as a logged Forest Reserve. The forest is certainly worth protecting, as it is home of the largest known concentration of chimpanzees in Africa, as well as the threatened red colobus monkey and the rare L’Hoest’s monkey. By and large, Kibale National Park has one of the highest densities of primates in Africa, totaling 13 species and including the black and white colobus, blue monkey, grey-cheeked mangabey, bush babies, and pottos.

The most famous inhabitants of Kibale National Park, undoubtedly, are the chimpanzees, with over 1,450 protected within its borders. As such, chimpanzee trekking is an incredibly popular activity in the park and a “must” for any visitor. Set off with guides in search of the many playful families and witness these delightful creatures as they squabble and play in the trees in their natural environment. Outside of the many primates, Kibale National Park also offers a wealth of flora and fauna, including forest elephants, bush pigs, duikers, and over 325 species of birds including the yellow spotted nicator, yellow rumped tinkerbird, little greenbul, green breasted pitta, African pitta, crowned eagle, and the black bee-eater. A keen observer may even see some of the reptiles and amphibians and a colorful variety of butterflies darting amidst the park’s 250 tree species on record.

Another unique highlight of Kibale National Park is its proximity to multiple local villages and the fascinating Toro Kingdom. Guests can enjoy visits to the local villages, evenings within the Royal Karambi tombs in Fort Portal, the burial ground for the royal family of the Toro Kingdom, and excursions into the legendary Amabere Ga Nyinamwiru caves full of spectacular stalagmites and stalactites.

Kibale National Park adjoins Queen Elizabeth National Park, creating the perfect setting for eco-tourism and incredible safari adventures through Uganda. Contact Ker & Downey to incorporate the culture, caves, and chimpanzees of Kibale into your next luxury Uganda safari.