Situated in western Uganda, Kalinzu Forest is one of the splendid natural forests any enthusiastic nature lover should consider a must-visit. It is perched just next to Queen Elizabeth National Park in Bushenyi District and also close to Maramagambo Forest Reserve. From Kampala, Kalinzu is 382kms away and sits on altitude of 1400m, spanning an area of only 147sq.kms but endowed with biodiversity.
Access to Kalinzu Forest during a Uganda safari is possible by road. Take 5 hours’ drive starting from Kampala via Masaka to Mbarara City and get to Bushenyi. You can incorporate Kalinzu Forest experiences with numerous safari activities in Queen Elizabeth National Park where the tree climbing lions can only be spotted in Uganda.
Faunal species.
Kalinzu Forest is a compact natural forest and regardless of its size, holidaymakers have a lot to explore and experience. This forest reserve boasts its estimated population of about 220 chimpanzees, some of these have undergone habituation and open for chimpanzee tracking. Besides, the reserve also protects significant number of baboons, vervet monkeys, blue monkeys, black and white colobus monkeys.
Due to its close proximity to Queen Elizabeth National Park, there is a possibility of viewing interesting mammal species such as buffaloes, elephants, lions, leopards, bush pigs to mention but a few.
Birdlife.
Over 380 bird species are estimated to be in Kalinzu Forest which makes it a birder’s haven. These include among others the Great Blue Turacos, black and white casqued hornbill. This beautiful natural forest also inhabits about 100 moths, 270 species of butterflies and several reptile species.
Tourist activities in Kalinzu forest.
Chimpanzee Tracking.
A tour in Kalinzu Forest isn’t complete without chimpanzee tracking. This is one exceptional primate adventure which travelers can enjoy especially if you are interested in getting up close with chimpanzee community while in their natural habitat rather than in captivity / zoo. It is a thrilling experience as you have 1 hour to spend face to face with chimpanzees in the wild, take photos and have in-depth learning about their unique behaviors.
Birding.
With all the 380 bird species, Kalinzu Forest is one of the best places you shouldn’t miss visiting to explore excellent bird watching activities. Get along with your good camera and binoculars and stand a chance to identify great blue turacos, black and white casqued hornbills among other interesting forest bird species.
Nature walks.
Kalinzu Forest is by far an exceptional place to visit for guided nature walks. It is blessed with numerous trails each leading you to areas with interesting residents including birds, primates, colorful butterflies, reptiles and so much more. The notable trails to explore here include the River Trail which is 1 hour’s hiking trail leads holidaymakers up to River Kajojo/elephant waterway. There are significant numbers of primates to keep an eye on while on nature walk along the River trail.
The Palm Trail – 5kms trail lasting nature lovers approximately 2 hours although this may depend on your speed of walking. You get to navigate via woodland trees and learn more about the fire tree, a rare tree species which Kalinzu Forest protects.
Waterfall Trail – considerably one of the longest trails taking you 5 hours to hike through 11kms trail. Here, expect to enjoy spectacular views of the scenic Kilyantama Falls or embark on the Valley Trail which lasts hikers about 2 hours.
Places to stay while in Kalinzu forest.
While on Kalinzu Forest safari holiday, it is important to book the nearby lodging choices or embark on camping at Kalinzu Forest station in Nkombe. However, the closest lodging options include among others Twin Lakes Lodge, Katara Lodge, Queen Elizabeth Bush Lodge, Kyambura Game Lodge and Mweya Safari Lodge, and so much more.
