Background Information

The extensive Kibale Forest, near Fort Portal in the West, is thought to have the greatest variety and concentration of primates in Africa. Thirteen species have been recorded including the red colobus, the black and white colobus, the vervet and of course the chimpanzee. As a moist forest Kibale is unique, with an extraordinary high diversity of wildlife and flora. Taking a forest walk from Kanyanchu provides a high chance of encountering chimpanzees, several families of which have been habituated.

Over 300 bird species have been recorded and experienced guides help to locate specials such as green-breasted pitta, black bee eater, white headed wood hoopoe and the tiny chestnut wattle-eye. Under the ecosystem of a tropical rain forest, as well as its flora and fauna. Dawn walks to watch the chimps waking are quite exciting and noisy. Night walks are good for seeing nocturnals, such as bush baby and potto. The adjacent Bigodi Wetland, also called Magombe Swamp, offers an unusual habitat for seeing wildlife and birds that live in and around swamps. It is considered to be one of the best guided bird trails in East Africa.

Climate

The climate in Kibale is moist and temperate. The temperatures stay the same, almost year-round since it’s close to the equator. During the day temperatures are nearly 27°C/81°F, cooling off nightly to about 15°C/59°F. In the south, the altitude level drops down to the rift valley floor, and forest gives way to open grassland. As a result, rainfall is lower, and temperatures are higher.

Kibale lacks a real Dry season, so rain is possible anytime, although the months of December through February are typically drier. June and July also experience wet weather. Two Wet seasons exist: March to May and August through November. It is recommended to bring waterproof clothing and shoes.