Murchison falls Chimpanzee Tracking

Murchison Falls Chimpanzee Tracking – A Budongo Forest Adventure

Embark on an extraordinary chimpanzee tracking adventure in the heart of Budongo Forest, situated within Murchison Falls National Park, a scenic 4-hour drive northwest of Kampala, Uganda’s capital. Renowned as the largest Mahogany forest in East Africa, Budongo is home to the highest population of chimpanzees in the country.

Exploring Budongo Forest: A Haven of Biodiversity

Within Budongo Forest, notable tourist sites include the Kaniyo Pabidi Ecotourism site, Busingiro Ecotourism site, and Kaniyo Pabidi Ecotourism site. These areas, marked by the dominance of Mahogany and Iron-wood trees, offer enchanting glimpses into the natural wonders of Murchison Falls National Park.

Activities to Enjoy in Budongo Forest:

1. Birding Extravaganza:

Budongo Forest stands as an ideal destination for bird enthusiasts. Embark on a guided bird-watching tour along the Royal Mile, stretching from Nyabyeya Forestry College to the research station. Immerse yourself in the captivating world of over 360 bird species, creating a rewarding bird-watching safari experience.

2. Chimpanzee Tracking:

The highlight of the forest is undoubtedly chimpanzee tracking. From October to January, when fruit supply is limited, chimpanzees cover more ground. The success rate during this period is around 50%. Fortunately, various accommodation facilities cater to your needs, providing a base for your Uganda safari, chimpanzee trekking, and invigorating forest walks.

3. Bird Watching Delight:

Dive into the rich avian diversity of Budongo Forest, boasting over 360 bird species, including 290 butterflies, 130 moths, 465 tree species, and 24 mammal species, nine of which are primates. This forest reserve, perched on the northeast escarpment of Lake Albert, unfolds a medium-altitude damp semi-deciduous verdant forest covering 42,800 hectares.

Budongo Forest Reserve: A Natural Wonderland:

Encompassing a gently rolling landscape, Budongo Forest is drained by four tiny rivers—Waisoke, Sonso, Bubwa, and Wake—that gracefully flow into Lake Albert. The forest boasts five major types, ranging from swamp-forest to mixed, Cynometra-mixed, colonizing, and Cynometra. Tropical high-forest communities predominantly shield the majority of this reserve.

Eco-tourism Gems:

Kaniyo Pabidi and Busingiro host various eco-tourism sites, enhancing your exploration of this captivating forest reserve. The region’s biodiversity, coupled with Murchison Falls National Park’s allure, positions it as an ideal destination for wildlife enthusiasts, offering the best of Uganda safaris and short weekend breaks.

Endemic Bird Species:

Budongo Forest claims the distinction of harboring two endemic bird species not found elsewhere in East Africa. The Yellow-footed Flycatcher, once common, is now a rare sight within the mature forest. The Illadopsis puveli, a new addition, remains exclusive to this region in East Africa.

Rare Forest Bird Species:

Budongo Forest is renowned for hosting rare forest bird species, such as the Pitta reichenowi and Parmoptila woodhouse. The forest’s extensive and well-maintained 115-kilometer track system facilitates bird watching, making it a haven for bird enthusiasts in East Africa.

Embark on a captivating journey into the heart of nature, where Budongo Forest unfolds its treasures, creating an enchanting tapestry of biodiversity and adventure.