Kibale National Park

Kibale National Park is located near the town of Fort Portal in southwestern Uganda.  Part of the Albertine Rift Valley, the park covers 795 sq. km (307 sq. mi).

For the primary activity of chimpanzee trekking, the best time to visit the park is during the dry seasons – from June to September and December to February.  Dry conditions mean that walking conditions are easier and roads are easier to navigate.  The park remains lush year-round and is open to visitors.

FlashMc Tours will transport you in a comfortable vehicle to Kibale National Park from Uganda’s capital, Kampala, or Entebbe International Airport.  The drive takes up to 6 hours.  Flights from Entebbe are available to airstrips a couple of hours drive from the park.

Yes.  The park is secure, well-managed and safe for tourists to visit.  Care should be taken when encountering wildlife and the instructions of guides and park authorities must be followed.  Apply standard travel safety precautions, such as securing your valuables.

Kibale National Park is one of the best places to view wild chimpanzees, with about 1500 living in the park.  Other primates such as colobus monkeys are also common.  Forest elephants, buffalos and various antelope are also found.  370 species of birds have been recorded, making this a birding hotspot of note.

Yes.  Key endangered species receiving protection in the park are chimpanzees and forest elephants.

The park’s landscape is dominated by dense tropical rainforest, interrupted by patches of swamp, grassland and riverine forest.  The dense forest canopy shelters a huge diversity of wildlife and plants.

Chimpanzee trekking, birdwatching, guided walks by day and night, along with visits to local communities and projects are among the activities available to visitors at Kibale.

Yes.  Please note that children 15 years and younger may not join chimpanzee trekking.  However, the various camps and lodges do offer tailored programs for children, and your FlashMc Tours guide is always on hand to grow children’s appreciation of the area’s wildlife and people.

Yes.  It is compulsory to be in the company of an experienced guide if you wish to view chimpanzees.  Guided tours are the best way to ensure visitors get a holistic impression of Kibale National Park’s ecosystems, wildlife and cultures.

Yes.  The scenery, landscapes and wildlife are all worthy photographic subjects.  Please ask before taking photos of local people.

Chimpanzee treks are preceded by a briefing before setting off into the rainforest in search of one of the habituated groups of chimpanzees.  This may take several hours and encounters with the chimps are limited to one hour.  Afterwards, you can relax or join a cultural excursion before returning for dinner.

Kibale National Park and the surrounding areas offer various accommodations to suit differing budgets and preferences.  Options include luxurious safari lodges and permanent tented camps.

The park has a visitor center and picnic sites.  The lodges and camps in the area have dining rooms, lounges, gift shops, bars and swimming pools.  Luxury establishments may offer a spa and fitness center.

Conservation efforts within Kibale National Park and in the surrounding communities focus on anti-poaching measures, community conservation projects, environmental education, reforestation, water and soil conservation.

Twenty percent of the revenue from tourism is used to fund ongoing conservation projects.  By choosing eco-friendly safari operators and accommodations, and participating in conservation and community projects, visitors aid conservation efforts.  Visitors can also respect park rules, reduce waste and reduce their environmental footprint.  Opportunities to make donations to various conservation projects are available.

Yes, the lodges and camps in and around Kibale National Park implement sustainable practices like using green energy, managing water resources and recycling.  The communities surrounding the park are engaged through employment and cottage industries, ensuring the tourism benefits are shared.

Yes, the Amabere ga Nyina Mwiru caves are culturally significant.

The park plays a part in local culture by providing employment opportunities within the park and allowing neighboring communities to derive benefits from the tourism industry.

Yes, visits to nearby villages can be arranged, offering visitors a glimpse of traditional life and how the communities benefit by the presence of Kibale National Park.

Due to daily variations in temperature, pack lightweight, neutral colored, breathable clothing that can be worn in layers.  Comfortable walking shoes are a must.  Protect yourself with bug spray, a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen.  Bring a camera and binoculars for wildlife viewing.  Don’t forget sufficient prescription medication and a small first aid kit.  For chimpanzee trekking, it is advisable to pack waterproof clothing, gloves and sturdy hiking boots.

Yes.  However, park entry fees are included in the price of your FlashMc Tours package.

All visitors must adhere to the rules and regulations of Kibale National Park.  If joining a chimpanzee trek, specific guidelines are in place for the protection of the chimpanzees and tourists.  The park is safe to visit provided you apply standard travel precautions and treat the wildlife with caution.  Littering and excessive noise are prohibited.  Do not leave the designated trails and please respect the local communities and their customs.