Budongo Forest: A Chimpanzee Haven and Birder’s Paradise

Nestled within the vast Murchison Falls National Park in northwestern Uganda, Budongo Forest is a haven of biodiversity and a key destination for a unique wildlife experience. As the largest mahogany forest in East Africa, it offers a stark and beautiful contrast to the open savannahs of the national park, providing a lush, dense environment for an array of primates and birds. For anyone seeking to add a different dimension to their safari, Budongo Forest is an essential stop.

Chimpanzee Trekking: The Main Attraction

Budongo Forest is renowned as one of the best places in Uganda for chimpanzee trekking. The forest is home to a significant population of these intelligent and social primates, with several families that have been habituated to human presence.

A chimpanzee trekking excursion typically begins early in the morning, led by an experienced Uganda Wildlife Authority ranger. As you walk through the thick forest, the guide will share fascinating insights into the forest’s ecosystem and the behavior of the chimpanzees. The search for the chimps is an exciting and unpredictable experience, as you follow their calls and the trails they leave behind. Once a chimpanzee community is located, you are allowed to spend a precious hour observing them as they feed, play, and interact with each other. This close encounter with our closest relatives in their natural home is a deeply moving and unforgettable experience.

A Paradise for Birdwatchers

Beyond the primates, Budongo Forest is a premier destination for birding, with over 360 species recorded. Its unique habitat, a mix of Guinea-Congo forest and open woodland, makes it a critical location for many species, including several that are a challenge to find elsewhere.

Birding in Budongo is an excellent experience, and the forest is particularly famous for the Puvell’s Illadopsis and the Yellow-footed Flycatcher. Other sought-after species include the African Dwarf Kingfisher, Chocolate-backed Kingfisher, and the various turacos that fill the forest with their vibrant colors. The forest’s trails are well-maintained, allowing for peaceful and productive walks in search of these avian treasures.

Other Activities and Highlights

• Guided Nature Walks: For those interested in the broader ecosystem, guided nature walks offer a chance to explore the forest at a slower pace. The forest is home to a diverse array of flora and fauna, including rare tree species, various forest antelopes, and a huge variety of butterflies and insects.
• The Royal Mile: This is one of Budongo’s most famous and accessible trails. It is a long, straight road bordered by towering trees, making it a perfect location for both walking and driving. It is a fantastic spot for birding and offers a glimpse of the forest’s pristine beauty.
• Proximity to Murchison Falls: Budongo Forest’s location within Murchison Falls National Park means it can be easily combined with a classic safari. You can spend a day or two exploring the forest and then continue your adventure with game drives and a boat cruise on the Nile, creating a complete and varied safari itinerary.

Budongo Forest is a must-visit for anyone who wants to go beyond the typical safari and delve into a different kind of wildlife. It offers the thrill of chimpanzee trekking and a world-class birding experience, all within the context of a beautiful and ancient forest.