Located in mid-western part of Uganda (Masindi district), Budongo forest stands along the way towards the mighty Murchison falls national park covering an area of 793 square kilometers. This is what makes it the biggest forest reserve having the older mahogany and iron forests in the country. Budongo forest is currently the largest forest in East Africa that comprises of trees that grow up to eighty (80) meters tall.
The reserve is also famous for sheltering between 600 and 700 chimpanzees in addition to less common bird species like chocolate-backed kingfisher, white-thighed hornbill and bellied crombec. The two major tourist sectors within Budongo forest reserve are Kaniyo Pabidi and Busingiro eco-tourism sites.
One of the major activities that take place in Budongo forest reserve is bird watching. The forest is home to over three hundred and sixty six bird types, sixty of which are of central African origin and two of them cannot be located in any other place in East Africa. These include but not limited to pavel’s illadoposis and yellow-footed flycatcher.
In addition to the above, the following are also some of the less common species which can be recognized in Budongo forest reserve; Smithornis rufolateralis, Ceratogymna fistulator, Ixonotus guttatus, Sylvietta denti, Neafrapus cassini, Batis ituriensis, Pitta reichenowi, Zoothera camaronensis and Parmoptila woodhousei.
Dare not to miss any of the birds when you happen to pay Budongo forest a visit!
Best time to visit Budongo forest for bird watching?
Budongo forest reserve has no restrictions when it comes to visiting seasons. Though the best experiences vary depending on months of the year. However, like any other country, Uganda experiences different seasons. These two seasons (dry and wet seasons) offer different delicacies on tourists’ table especially birders. Between months of November – March and June – September, the forest is filled with migratory birds. These birds are responsible for the beauty of the area in this season; it is a season worth not missing.
On the other hand, period of fruits has a lot to do with birding. This is during months of June, July, and August when the forest bears a lot of fruits that attract almost every bird within and outside. Important to note is that in this period, a lot of primates are also attracted by these fruits some of which include chimpanzees which enjoy dwelling in mahogany trees. Budongo Conservation Filed Station- a local administration unit protects up to 600 chimpanzees within the forest.
WHAT ELSE IN BUDONGO FOREST RESERVE OTHER THAN BIRDING?
- Chimpanzee Habituation Experience.
One of the most beautiful and most sought after activities in Budongo forest reserve is chimpanzee habituation. Travelers visit the forest as early as possible in order to watch chimpanzees before they get caught up by their daily chores.
As a visitor, you have a full day with chimpanzees, it is here that you follow their walks throughout the day enjoying how they feed, socialize, play and mate. It is advisable to carry box lunch so that you do not miss any step. Another opportunity for visitors here is that they are allowed to capture as many pictures and videos as possible. All this is done under the guidance of a professional guide who will be ready to answer any relevant questions.
Only four people can habituate a single chimpanzee family per day, meaning that travelers are encouraged to book as early as possible to avoid missing out on last minute and plan in advance.
- Guided nature walks.
For better nature walk experiences within the forest, well organized trails were established in Budongo forest. These enable visitors to explore the forest from the beginning to its innermost areas. Guided nature walks are true reflection of nature’s beauty as you enjoy birds sing sweet melodies. Be part of the walks via Kaniyo – Pabidi sector and go through the magnificent woodlands and savannah terrains where you may watch other mammals like forest elephants and buffaloes.
You have an opportunity to extend your exploration as far as Murchison falls National Park just a stone-throw distance from Budongo forest and be part of supernatural experiences like boat cruising on River Nile and game drives.
