Optional Activities

Bigodi Swamp Walk

This swamp basically offers some of the finest birding and monkey viewing spots in Uganda. While here; you will be able to identify more than 40 species in one walk. However, most will be forest fringe and swamp specials. Species that cannot be missed out by visitors include the great blue turaco, papyrus gonolek. Yellow-throated tinker barbets, swamp flycatcher snowy headed robin chats, etc. Primates include; like L’Hoest’s monkey, black and white colobus, Uganda mangabey, etc. Walks usually start at 07:00 and 15.00 and generally takes around 3 hours.

Hiking

There is a hike that traverses the length of the park whereby each night you sleep in a different park. There is also plenty of day-hikes near or in the park for you to enjoy. These include; the various aspects of Kibale Forest and the surrounding area.

Amabere caves experience

Named after the live stalactite formation Amabere ga Nyinamwiru. These supposedly resembles the twin breasts of a woman. The main cave is very small, really more of an exaggerated overhang. It is supported by several pillar-like formations of connected stalactites and stalagmites. Alongside it, you can stand on the moss- covered rocks behind a power small waterfall. Here, you are able to watch the ice-cold water plunge down right in front of you.

Lake Saka

This is the largest water body in the immediate vicinity of Fort Portal. The lake is not strictly speaking crater lake, but rather a flooded valley dammed by a crater. In fact, it is one of the few lakes in the area to support fish large enough for commercial harvesting. In addition, it is reputedly safe to swim in.

Rweetera cluster

It is basically a circular walking trail that follows the rim of Lake Nyabikere. Actually, the Frog at Kibale is one of the most popular activities. Here, Black-and-white colobus and other monkeys are often encountered. Besides, a varied selection of resident birds such as Ross’s turaco, pygmy goose, Black-crowned night heron, great blue turaco, not to mention but a few. Another attractive walk follows the drivable track from Rweetera to emerge on the Kasenda Road. There are great views over the three crater lakes from Mpurumu Hill to the south of this track.

The Nakayima Witch’s Tree

This is a cultural and traditional worship site that you can visit on the way to Kibale. Commonly called the Witch’s Tree, it is on top of a hill with great views. In fact, it is used by Ugandans who come and appeal to the spirits in the case of illness, infertility, diseases, etc.

Bigodi Cultural Centre

Opposite Bigodi swamp walk office, is a small museum. It displays traditional clothes, grinding stones, musical instruments and other such artefacts. It also offers a sedate alternative for those who don’t feel like doing the walk.

Mpanga Falls

This impressive waterfall is formed by the Mpanga River. It tumbles over the rim of the 1,200m Mount Karubaguma some 15km before emptying into Lake George. Estimated to be about 50m high, the waterfall is enclosed by a steep gorge and supports a lush cover of spray forest.