CategoriesTravel Tips By Mugisha Aron

Explore Kyambura Gorge in Queen Elizabeth National Park

An unforgettable primate tracking experience with Safari 2 Gorilla Tours

Tucked away in the eastern corner of Queen Elizabeth National Park lies a natural wonder that many travelers call the “Valley of Apes” — Kyambura Gorge. This lush, forested chasm carves dramatically through the savannah, offering a stunning contrast of ecosystems and one of the best off-the-beaten-path experiences in Uganda.

At Safari 2 Gorilla Tours, we invite you to explore this enchanting gorge where wildlife thrives in a hidden world few ever see.

Why Visit Kyambura Gorge?

1. Chimpanzee Tracking in a Natural Theater

Kyambura Gorge is one of the top destinations for chimpanzee tracking in Uganda. The gorge shelters a small, isolated population of chimpanzees, offering intimate encounters that are rare in larger parks. With experienced guides and trackers, you’ll venture into the gorge’s thick canopy to listen for hoots, rustles, and the telltale drumming on tree trunks that signal chimp activity.

2. A Unique Ecosystem

While Queen Elizabeth National Park is known for open savannahs, Kyambura Gorge is a primordial rainforest slashed into the landscape. Inside, you’ll find not only chimpanzees, but also red-tailed monkeys, black-and-white colobus, giant forest hogs, and over 200 bird species including the elusive African finfoot.

3. Dramatic Scenery

The gorge drops over 100 meters deep and winds for about 11 kilometers. As you descend into the misty forest, it feels as though you’re stepping into another world — a green cathedral of vines, moss-covered trees, and gurgling rivers. It’s a paradise for photographers, birders, and anyone who craves immersive nature.

More Activities in Queen Elizabeth National Park

Your Kyambura Gorge adventure can easily be combined with the diverse safari experiences Queen Elizabeth National Park is famous for:

1. Game Drives in Kasenyi Plains

Spot lions, elephants, buffaloes, warthogs, Uganda kobs, and more in the wide-open Kasenyi savannahs. Early morning and evening drives are best for predator sightings.

2. Boat Safari on the Kazinga Channel

Cruise along the Kazinga Channel, a natural waterway linking Lake Edward and Lake George. This is one of Africa’s best wildlife boat trips, offering close-up views of hippos, crocodiles, elephants, buffaloes, and an impressive array of birds.

3. Tree-Climbing Lions in Ishasha Sector

The southern Ishasha sector is renowned for its rare tree-climbing lions, often spotted lounging in fig and acacia trees. This is a must-see spectacle for wildlife photographers and big cat enthusiasts.

4. Birdwatching Paradise

With over 600 recorded bird species, Queen Elizabeth is one of Africa’s top birding destinations. From shoebills in the wetlands to flamingos on crater lakes, birders will be in heaven.

5. Crater Lake Exploration

Tour the stunning Katwe explosion craters and learn about the centuries-old salt mining tradition at Lake Katwe. The views from the crater rim are among the most scenic in Uganda.

Extend Your Safari Experience

Looking to see more of Uganda? Safari 2 Gorilla Tours offers seamless trip extensions to other top destinations:

1. Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Just a few hours from Queen Elizabeth, Bwindi offers life-changing encounters with endangered mountain gorillas. Combine primate tracking in Kyambura with gorilla trekking for the ultimate Uganda safari.

2. Kibale Forest National Park

Known as the primate capital of the world, Kibale offers exceptional chimpanzee tracking and birding. You can visit en route to or from Queen Elizabeth National Park.

3. Lake Bunyonyi Retreat

After your safari, unwind by the tranquil waters of Lake Bunyonyi. Canoe rides, hiking, and relaxing lakeside lodges make it a perfect way to end your journey.

4. Murchison Falls National Park

Head north to witness the dramatic Murchison Falls, where the Nile explodes through a narrow gorge. This park offers spectacular game drives and river safaris.

Best Time to Visit

Kyambura Gorge and Queen Elizabeth National Park are open year-round, but the dry seasons (June–August and December–February) provide the best conditions for tracking and wildlife viewing.

Travel with Purpose

At Safari 2 Gorilla Tours, we’re committed to sustainable tourism that supports conservation and local communities. Your visit helps protect Kyambura Gorge’s unique wildlife and contributes to community-based tourism initiatives.

Ready to explore Uganda’s most diverse safari destination?

Click here to book your custom Queen Elizabeth & Kyambura adventure with Safari 2 Gorilla Tours today.

CategoriesTravel Tips Uncategorized By Mugisha Aron

Things to do and see in Bugoma Central Forest Reserve

Bugoma Central Forest Reserve
It’s a significant tropical rainforest located in western Uganda, within the Hoima and Kikuube districts. Situated on the eastern edge of the Albertine Rift Valley, it lies between Hoima and Kyenjojo towns, approximately 10 km east of Lake Albert.

Size and Biodiversity
Covering an area of approximately 401–411 square kilometers (about 41,144 hectares), Bugoma Forest is renowned for its rich biodiversity. It ranks 12th among 65 Ugandan forests in terms of biodiversity importance and 17th for species rarity.
The forest is home to over 34 mammal species, including more than 600 chimpanzees, as well as blue monkeys, red-tailed monkeys, grey-cheeked mangabeys, and black-and-white colobus monkeys. Other wildlife includes elephants, buffaloes, golden cats, side-striped jackals, and Uganda kobs.
Bird enthusiasts can find over 255 bird species, such as the Nahan’s partridge, grey parrot, and African crowned eagle. Additionally, the reserve hosts 289 butterfly species, 130 moth species, and 260 tree species, including 14 listed on the IUCN Red List.

Conservation Challenges
Despite its ecological significance, Bugoma Forest faces threats from illegal logging, charcoal production, hunting, and agricultural encroachment. In 2020, a portion of the forest was allocated to Hoima Sugar Limited for sugarcane cultivation, sparking environmental concerns.
Conservation efforts are ongoing, with organizations like the Association for Conservation of Bugoma Forest (ACBF) working to protect and restore the forest. In 2021, a reforestation initiative successfully restored 50 hectares of forest cover.

Ecotourism Opportunities
Bugoma Forest offers ecotourism activities such as chimpanzee tracking, bird watching, and guided nature walks. In 2024, the forest was officially opened for chimpanzee trekking, providing visitors with an opportunity to observe these primates in their natural habitat.
Access to the reserve is typically via the Hoima–Fort Portal road, with entry points like the Kasindi Forest Station. The forest’s proximity to other attractions, such as Murchison Falls National Park and the Semliki Valley, makes it a valuable addition to Uganda’s ecotourism circuit.

Top Activities in Bugoma Central Forest Reserve

1. Chimpanzee Tracking
Bugoma is home to over 600 chimpanzees. The Mwera South chimpanzee community has been habituated for ecotourism, providing visitors with an opportunity to observe these primates in their natural habitat.

2. Nature Walks and Primate Viewing
Explore the forest’s 30 km of trails, where you can encounter various primates, including the endemic Uganda mangabey, as well as reptiles, butterflies, and unique tree species.

3. Bird Watching
With its rich avian diversity, Bugoma is a paradise for bird enthusiasts. The forest’s varied habitats support numerous bird species, making it an ideal spot for bird watching.

4. Scenic Views and Photography
Situated atop an escarpment east of Lake Albert, the reserve offers stunning views of the countryside and the Albertine Rift Valley, perfect for photography and relaxation.

For an unforgettable adventure, consider extending your Bugoma Central Forest Reserve trip with the following incredible destinations:

1) Coffee Experience at the Coffee Lodge
Immerse yourself in Uganda’s rich coffee culture with a visit to the Coffee Lodge. Enjoy a hands-on coffee experience, where you can learn about the coffee cultivation process, from bean to cup, and taste some of the finest coffee Uganda has to offer. It’s the perfect stop for coffee enthusiasts and anyone looking to enjoy the serene landscapes of Uganda’s coffee-growing regions.

2) Murchison Falls National Park
Next, head to Murchison Falls National Park, one of Uganda’s most iconic wildlife destinations. The park is home to diverse wildlife, including elephants, lions, giraffes, and various bird species. Don’t miss the spectacular Murchison Falls, where the Nile River crashes through a narrow gorge, creating one of the most breathtaking natural sights in Africa. You can enjoy a boat cruise along the Nile and game drives to witness the park’s abundant wildlife.

3) Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary
To complete your wildlife journey, visit Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, the only place in Uganda where you can see white rhinos in the wild. The sanctuary plays a crucial role in rhino conservation, and you can enjoy guided tours that allow you to get up close to these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. It’s a unique and rewarding experience for animal lovers and conservationists alike.

With these exceptional destinations added to your Bugoma experience, you’ll have the perfect combination of nature, wildlife, and cultural experiences. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, wildlife photographer, or simply seeking adventure, this extended trip offers something for everyone.

Book your tour now and get ready for a once-in-a-lifetime experience through Uganda’s most beautiful and biodiverse destinations!