Discover the Magic Wonders of Budongo Forest

Budongo Forest, located in the southern part of the renowned Murchison Falls National Park, is a true wonder of Uganda’s natural heritage. As the largest natural forest in the country, stretching over 825 square kilometers, it offers a diverse range of attractions. The forest is especially famous for harboring chimpanzees and numerous bird species, particularly in the Kaniyo Pabidi and Royal Mile sectors.

Visiting Budongo Forest while on a safari to Murchison Falls National Park is an unforgettable experience. The forest allows you to encounter chimpanzees, our closest relatives, and also provides excellent opportunities for birdwatching. On a lucky day, you may even spot the rare and endemic Puvel’s illadopsis. Below are the wonders that make Budongo Forest a must-see destination.

Chimpanzees in Budongo Forest

Chimpanzees are undoubtedly the highlight of any visit to Budongo Forest. Joining a chimpanzee trekking adventure gives you a chance to see these fascinating apes up close. They share over 98% of their DNA with humans, making the experience both thrilling and deeply meaningful.

Several chimpanzees in Budongo Forest have been habituated, meaning they are accustomed to human presence. By purchasing a chimpanzee trekking permit, you can join ranger guides on an expedition and spend up to one hour observing their daily behaviors, taking photos, and recording videos.

For those who wish to dive deeper, Budongo also offers chimpanzee habituation experiences. This activity allows trekkers to spend more than four hours with semi-habituated chimpanzees. During this time, you witness how these primates gradually become comfortable with humans while enjoying extended opportunities for photography and video recording.

Birdlife in Budongo Forest

Budongo Forest is a paradise for bird enthusiasts, boasting more than 360 recorded species. Birdwatching is best done along trails in the Royal Mile or Kaniyo Pabidi, guided by experienced birding experts. The forest is home to the tiny and brightly colored Puvel’s illadopsis, which is endemic to this tropical ecosystem.

Other bird species you might encounter include the piping hornbill, Cassin’s spine tail, blue-breasted kingfisher, Nahan’s francolin, fire-crested alethe, golden-crowned woodpecker, hairy-breasted barbet, African dwarf kingfisher, blue-throated roller, scaly-breasted illadopsis, African pitta, and the striking red-headed malimbe, among many others.

Wildlife Encounters

Since Budongo Forest lies within Murchison Falls National Park, visitors can combine forest exploration with game drives in the park. Morning, evening, or night game drives reveal a wide range of wildlife. Expect to see giraffes, buffaloes, lions, leopards, elephants, Uganda kobs, waterbucks, sitatungas, warthogs, and spotted hyenas, among others. The blend of forest and savannah wildlife makes this safari experience truly exceptional.

Best Time to Visit Budongo Forest

The dry months, from June to September and December to February, provide the best conditions for exploring Budongo Forest. During this period, rainfall is minimal, trails are dry, and vegetation is shorter, making wildlife viewing much clearer.

However, travelers can also visit during the rainy season, which falls between March and May as well as October and November. While the trails are often muddy and slippery and the vegetation taller, the forest remains lush, vibrant, and rewarding for those seeking a more adventurous experience.

How to Reach Budongo Forest

Budongo Forest is easily accessible by road from Entebbe or Kampala. The journey takes about five hours, passing through Kampala, Luweero, Nakasongola, and Masindi before reaching Murchison Falls National Park. Along the way, you can make a worthwhile stop at Ziwa Rhino Sanctuary, the only place in Uganda where southern white rhinos are found.

Accommodation in and Around Budongo Forest

Visitors to Budongo Forest can choose from a variety of lodges and camps, both near the forest and inside Murchison Falls National Park. Accommodation options range from budget to mid-range and luxury, ensuring that every traveler finds a comfortable stay that suits their safari style.

When planning your adventure to Budongo Forest and Murchison Falls National Park, Experiya Tour Company can help you create a seamless itinerary that combines chimpanzee trekking, birding, and wildlife viewing for a truly memorable safari.