Semuliki Forest National Park

Overview

Semuliki National Park protects an extension of the Ituri forest in the Democratic Republic of Congo. It lies in western Uganda on the floor of the Rwenzori Mountains and is the only true lowland tropical forest in East Africa.

River Semuliki forms part of the international boundary between Uganda and DR Congo. Semuliki remains one of Uganda’s least visited parks—meaning you enjoy a quiet, exclusive wilderness experience.

Wildlife

Animals

The forest hosts mammals such as forest elephants, buffaloes, hippos and crocodiles along River Semuliki, plus primates like chimpanzees, red-cheeked mangabey and Central African red colobus.

• Endemics include: pygmy flying squirrel, Beecroft’s flying squirrel, water chevrotain, bay duiker, forest buffalo, mona monkey.

Birds

Semuliki has a spectacular birdlife (about 441 species recorded). It hosts Guinea–Congo biome species found only here in East Africa.

• African Piculet, Maxwell’s Black Weaver, Blue-billed Malimbe
• Yellow-throated Nicator, Black Dwarf Hornbill, Nkulengu Rail
• Piping Hornbill, Yellow-throated Cuckoo, Leaf-love and more

Top Activities

Chimpanzee Trekking (Toro–Semliki Wildlife Reserve)

After briefing at the research camp, track chimps through forest trails (typically 4–6 hours). The walk is rich in birds and wildlife.

Chimpanzee Habituation Experience

A full-day activity where you join researchers to follow chimps from morning to evening—learning behaviour, feeding, and movement patterns.

Bird Watching

Semuliki is a birder’s paradise—check Sempaya, Ntandi, Kirumia trail and the Semuliki River. Canoe birding toward Lake Albert may reward you with Shoebill sightings.

Hot Springs

Semuliki’s hot springs are a major highlight. The Bamba people use them for rituals and blessings. Walks to the male (Bintente) and female (Nyasimbe) hot springs take you through forest with primates and birds.

The “female” hot springs include a boiling fountain (often described as above 100°C). Visitors sometimes cook eggs/plantains in the hot water.

Nature Walks & Trails

• Red Monkey Trail (11km): ends at River Semuliki; chance to see De Brazza’s monkey.
• Sempaya Nature Trail: leads to hot springs; primates common; includes tree house viewpoint.
• Kirumia Trail (13km): perfect for birders; deep forest to River Semuliki.

Community Walks & Cultural Experiences

Learn about Batwa history and forest survival skills, enjoy performances, and support communities through crafts.

Access

Reach Semuliki from Kampala via Fort Portal. Flights (scheduled/charter) can also be arranged from Entebbe to airstrips serving the region.