KIBALE NATIONAL PARK

Kibale National Park, located in western Uganda, is one of the country's most iconic wildlife reserves, renowned for its biodiversity and vibrant ecosystems. Covering 795 square kilometers, the park lies in the heart of the Albertine Rift, between the Great Rift Valley and the western Ugandan highlands. It is primarily known for its rich population of primates, including over 1,400 chimpanzees, making it one of the best places in Africa to observe these fascinating great apes in the wild.

The park's diverse habitats, including tropical rainforests, wetlands, and grasslands, support a wide range of wildlife, such as monkeys, forest elephants, and various species of birds. Kibale is home to 13 primate species, including the endangered red colobus and grey-cheeked mangabey. Its diverse flora and fauna also attract birdwatchers, with over 375 species recorded in the park.

One of the park's main attractions is the chimpanzee trekking experience, where visitors can hike through the forest with expert guides to observe chimpanzees in their natural habitat. Kibale is also part of the larger Western Rift Valley eco-region, offering an opportunity to explore Uganda's rich ecological and cultural diversity. The park is vital for conservation efforts, especially in protecting the region's endangered species and fragile ecosystems.