Explore Kalinzu Forest Reserve, a Natural Haven on the Edge of Queen Elizabeth National Park.

Positioned on the periphery of the spectacular Queen Elizabeth National Park, Kalinzu Forest Reserve is composed of a dense natural rainforest. Owing to the abundant animals and the magnificent vistas that abound, especially those of Lake George, the Rwenzori Mountains, and the Kazinga Channel, a stroll through the forest reserve will open your eyes and mind to a whole new thrilling adventure.

Numerous plant and animal species, including monkeys, gorgeous bird species, uncommon tree species, and grasslands, call the forest home. The more than 414 tree species, 378 bird species, six distinct primate species, and 262 butterfly species in the Kalinzu Forest Reserve will enhance your tour. The forest is an attractive spot since it has strategically positioned lodging options to make sure visitors enjoy themselves while exploring the surrounding area.

A brief history of Kalinzu forest reserve.

The British colonial rulers established the enchanting Kalinzu woodland reserve in 1932 to preserve its diversity. In the Bushenyi district, the reserve occupies an area of over 137 square kilometers. Numerous tree species were lost when a portion of the forest reserve was removed to make way for the Kyaruhunga and Igara Tea plantations.

After that, the government put an end to the deforestation in the region to safeguard the remaining portion of the forest and the types of trees that thrive there, which serve as a home for a range of wildlife species. For the area’s ecology, the forest reserve is significant. The National Forestry Authority currently oversees the operations of the Kalinzu Forest Reserve.

Tourist attractions in Kalinzu forest reserve.

Kalinzu Forest Reserve is well-known for its amazing beauty and contains a lot of tourist attractions, which helps to explain why thousands of people visit the forest each year. The attractions include;

Primates. It is indeed noteworthy that visitors to the Kalinzu Forest Reserve can witness around six different species of primates living there. These include chimpanzees, vervet monkeys, baboons, Galagos, pottos, l’hoest monkeys, blue monkeys, red-tailed monkeys, and black and white colobus monkeys.

Species of birds. When visiting the reserve, visitors appreciate seeing the variety of bird species that call the woodland home. These can be seen at specially dedicated bird-watching locations, which feature modified binoculars that allow guests to observe birds even farther away. Birds for example Sunbirds, hammerkops, turacos, Abyssinian ground hornbills, black bee eaters, cinnamons, egrets, African paradise flycatchers, secretary birds, and shoebills are among the forest’s fauna.

Nature walks can be led through the woodland to enable visitors to explore more of the reserve. The forest has uncommon and appealing plants such as ficus, strobania, parinari, and prinus Africana.

The stunning landscape of the canopies, which is ideal for tourism and photography, makes the forest itself a popular tourist destination.

The Kilyantama Waterfalls are also a popular tourist attraction in the forest reserve. Visitors like photographing the waterfalls and touring.

The forest reserve is also home to over 262 butterfly species, which visitors can see. The butterfly-watching hobby is enjoyable, especially during nature hikes through the forest.

Activities carried out in Kalinzu forest reserve.

Trekking chimpanzees. The woodland reserve is home to chimpanzees that scientists have habituated over time. These chimpanzees are as well observed by visitors to the forest reserve, making the excursions more enjoyable.

Forest treks. These happen within the forest and allow tourists to see all the sights in the reserve.

Research also takes place in the spectacular Kalinzu forest. Scientists typically research medicinal trees as well as collect data on other animal species, particularly primates.

How to access Kalinzu forest reserve.

The route linking Kampala, Mbarara, and Kasese leads to the Kalinzu Forest Reserve. The reserve is located on the highway about 10 km into Bushenyi district, in the western sector of Ishasha. The journey typically takes six to seven hours.

The most appropriate time to visit Kalinzu forest.

The dry seasons are excellent for exploring Kalinzu Forest. The most pleasant times to spend time in the forest reserve are during the dry seasons. Short dry seasons run from June to July, and the long dry seasons on the other hand go from December to February. The best experiences and seamless participation in all activities are provided by the dry seasons. They are defined by the absence of rain and slick terrain.

Interested in visiting Kalinzu Forest Reserve?  SEND INQUIRY to feed in other details you would like to be included in your trip. Alternatively, contact us directly at  +256 393 247 137 / +256 742 678 918 or email us at  info@ibuthsafaris.com. That way, you will have the chance to talk to our Tour Consultant .