Semuliki National Park, located in Bwamba County, Bundibugyo District, western Uganda, was established in October 1993. Covering 194 sq km (75 sq mi), it features East Africa’s only lowland tropical rainforest within the Semuliki Valley, characterized by the eastern extension of the Ituri Forest from the Congo Basin. This ancient ecosystem, home to diverse plant and animal life, survived the last ice age around 12,000 to 18,000 years ago.
Four ethnic groups inhabit the area: Bwamba farmers at the base of the Rwenzori Mountains, Bakonjo on the slopes, Batuku cattle keepers in the plains, and Batwa pygmies in Sebitoli, who still utilize park resources despite their relocation.
Renowned for its biodiversity, Semuliki National Park is managed by the Uganda Wildlife Authority and runs along the 160 km-long Semuliki River, which feeds into Lake Albert and the Nile, supporting the historical claims about the Nile’s origin.
Semuliki National Park is home to East Africa’s rare lowland tropical forests, featuring over 440 bird species, with 66% being forest birds, including the lyre-tailed honeyguide and the rare Forest Ground Thrush. The park also supports 9 primate species, 63 mammal species like elephants and leopards, and over 374 butterfly species, making it a prime birding destination.
It receives an average rainfall of 1,250 mm (49 in), with peaks from March to May and September to December, and temperatures range from 18 to 30 °C (64 to 86 °F).
Visitors can enjoy activities such as bird watching, game drives, and hiking the 13-kilometer Kirumia Trail. Notable attractions include hot springs, where water can reach high temperatures for cooking food. The park ranks 68th among Uganda’s attractions, emphasizing its significance as a safari destination.
The Semuliki and Lamia Rivers provide essential water sources, and the Mumbuga spring can spout water up to 0.5 meters high, attracting diverse wildlife. Other activities include nature walks, community interactions, boat rides on Lake Albert, and sport fishing.
| Destination | Semuliki National Park and Fort Portal |
|---|---|
| Activities | Boat cruise, game viewing and drive, nature walks, hotsprings visit and shoebill tour |
| Duration | 5 Days and 4 Night |
| Airport Transfers | Yes |
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| Excluded |
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| This package is designed for groups, offering a variety of options that can be tailored to fit the guests’ budget and interest | |
Experience the beauty of Uganda's Semuliki National Park over five days. Highlights include:
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