Volunteering Program in Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary

Experience Volunteering in Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary

Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary offers a unique volunteering program that provides students with an opportunity to immerse themselves in the wonders of this pristine environment. Organized by the wetland management, this program allows participants to stay at Tinka’s Homestead, providing an enriching experience where they can learn more about the sanctuary’s rich flora and fauna.

Birds of Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary:

Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary is a birdwatcher’s paradise, boasting a diverse bird population for a birding experience. These bird species in Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary include the Papyrus Gonolek, white-winged warbler, Shining blue kingfisher, white-spotted flufftail, Great blue Turaco, White-tailed ant-thrush, Yellow-billed barbet, Uganda spotted woodpecker (speckled-breasted woodpecker), and the Joyful green bull.

Primates of Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary:

The sanctuary is also home to a remarkable array of primates, adding to its allure. These include gray-cheeked Mangabeys, red colobus monkeys, L’Hoest’s Monkeys, Vervet monkeys, blue monkeys, black and white colobus, Red-tailed monkey, and baboons. In seasons of scarce food in Kibale Forest, chimpanzees have even been spotted feeding in the swamp on seasonal fruits and other swamp vegetation.

Tinka’s Homestead:

Immerse yourself in the local culture and live the Kitooro way by spending a night at Tinka’s Homestead, recognized as one of Uganda’s finest homesteads. Here, community members open their homes to offer rooms and serve traditional organic meals. Your stay includes full-board service with delicious breakfast, lunch, and dinner shared with the welcoming Tinka family. You’ll have the chance to engage in storytelling and enjoy local dances, creating a perfect blend of comfort and traditional life.

Tinka’s Homestead offers a range of accommodations, including a traditional thatched roof Banda that can comfortably host 3 to 4 persons. The Banda comprises two levels, with a living space and a comfortable single bed on the lower level and a cozy double bed and a balcony with breathtaking views of the Rwenzori Mountains on the upper level. All beds are equipped with mosquito nets. Clean toilets and showers are readily available for guests’ use.

Additionally, two rooms within the house are available—a double-bed room and a twin room, each accommodating up to 2 persons. These rooms feature private bathrooms with Western-style toilets and hot-water showers. Guests are encouraged to ascend to the balcony to savor magnificent views of the rainforest beneath the shadow of the Rwenzori Mountains while enjoying a delightful cup of African tea.

How to Get to Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary:

Bigodi Wetland Swamp is conveniently located approximately 40 kilometers from Fort Portal town. The road leading to the sanctuary is well-maintained, allowing any vehicle to make the 45 to 1-hour drive through Kibale Forest National Park.

Best Time for Volunteering in Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary:

The volunteering program is open throughout the year. However, the months of December to February and June to July are considered the driest and most favorable for this activity. During these times, trail walks are more manageable, and the overall experience tends to be more enjoyable.

Where to Stay in Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary:

Numerous accommodation options are available in the vicinity of Bigodi, catering to various preferences. Choices include Kibale Forest Camp, Kibale Homestay, Primate Lodge, Turaco Treetops, Chimpanzee Forest Guest House, and Isunga Lodge, ensuring a comfortable and memorable stay in this captivating area.