Kibale National Park

Kibale National Park, covering approximately 795 square kilometres (307 square miles), is a wonderland for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers. The park’s name may not be as royal as Queen Elizabeth National Park, but its beauty and natural wonders are equally majestic.

As you step into Kibale National Park, you’ll be greeted by a mesmerizing world of emerald-green forests, shimmering lakes and diverse ecosystems. Explore the enchanting mysteries of the rainforest, interact with our closest relatives in the animal kingdom, and immerse yourself in a truly unique wilderness experience.

Exotic birds

More than 375 bird species lift any bird lover from Kibale National Park up to cloud nine. In the park’s diverse habitats, including wetlands, forests, and savannah, a stunning array of avian life feels right at home. Keep your binoculars and your camera (including a great zoom) ready for sightings of the great blue turaco, African grey parrot, and the white-spotted flufftail, among many others.

Colourful butterflies

Kibale National Park not only enchants with its fascinating birds, but also with its stunning butterfly diversity. Over 250 species flutter through the lush foliage, painting every corner of the forest in another colour.

Cultural Encounters

While Kibale is primarily celebrated for its wildlife, you can also get closer to the region’s culture. Visit nearby communities and learn about the traditions and daily lives of the local people – presented to you with dance performances, craft-making, and storytelling.

Home of the primates

Kibale National Park is renowned for its extraordinary population of primates, with chimpanzees clearly stealing the show – the park is home to one of the largest concentrations of these fascinating creatures in Africa. As you trek through the forest with your guides, you may encounter playful chimpanzees swinging from the trees, grooming one another or looking for their next snack. If you want to be on the safe side, join a chimpanzee trekking tour – the perfect chance to observe their complex social structures and learn more about their everyday life as a troop.

The chimpanzees are not the only primate residents you’ll meet during your time in Kibale. You can also spot red-tailed monkeys, L’Hoest’s monkeys, black-and-white colobus monkeys and grey-cheeked mangabeys. These fascinating primates offer an up-close glimpse into the evolutionary connections we share with our animal cousins. And believe us: you’ll be amazed!

Activities in Kibale National Park

• Chimpanzee trekking
• Primate walks
• Bird watching
• Nature walks
• Nocturnal forest walks
• Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary
• Cultural visits
• Hiking and nature trails
• Photography and wildlife viewing
• Camping and picnicking
• Wildlife rehabilitation

How to get there

By plane: Fly in from Entebbe International Airport to the nearby Kasese Airstrip and reach Kibale by car.

By car: You reach Kibale from Kampala after five to six hours.

Climate

Kibale National Park boasts a tropical rainforest climate, with temperatures ranging from 14°C to 27°C. There are two wet seasons, from March to May and from September to November, and two dry seasons, from December to February and from June to August.

Best time to visit Kibale National Park

The ideal time to visit Kibale National Park is during the dry seasons – trekking through the forest and exploring the park’s sights are more comfortable during these periods. However, the rainforest is captivating year-round and if you don’t mind getting a little wet, you can also discover the park during the rain periods (with fewer tourists). Of course your visit can be adjusted to your schedule.