Kalinzu central forest reserve is located in south-western Uganda in Bushenyi district, adjacent to Queen Elizabeth national park and Maramagambo forest. This protected area lies on an average altitude of 1400m above sea level and covers an area of 137 sq. km. the reserve is characterized by its diverse ecosystem consisting of dense tropical rainforest vegetation and a wide range of wildlife including elephants, leopards, waterbucks, wild pigs, buffaloes, gigantic forest hogs, and duikers. It is also home to 414 tree species, 97 moths, 262 butterflies, reptiles, and flowers, 379bird species, and 6 primate species including Baboons, Chimpanzees, Black and White colobus monkeys, Vervet monkeys, L’hoest and Blue monkeys. Kalinzu forest also hosts the nocturnal primates’ species including the galagos, pottos and bush babies.  Whether you’re drawn to adventure, tranquility, or cultural exploration, Kalinzu Forest is an unmissable destination for anyone seeking to connect with nature.

Why Kalinzu Forest is a Birding Paradise

Kalinzu Central Forest Reserve, located in Uganda, is an exceptional destination for birding enthusiasts, boasting a wide range bird species within its rich ecosystems. This vibrant and diverse forest is a true birder’s haven, offering a vast array of species to observe in its tropical rainforest, bamboo groves, and open savannah habitats. These varied environments create the perfect setting for both resident and migratory birds to thrive.

Among the forest’s highlights are rare and stunning species like the African Green Broadbill, Great Blue Turaco, and White-tailed Blue Flycatcher. Birders may also spot notable residents such as the black and white casqued hornbill, black-billed turaco, and cuckoos, along with many other forest-dwelling species. The forest’s tranquil atmosphere, combined with expert local guides and well-maintained trails, ensures that bird watchers have an unparalleled experience.

Whether you’re a seasoned birder or simply a nature lover, Kalinzu Forest offers a peaceful retreat with an incredible diversity of birdlife. With over 379 species to spot, it’s no wonder that this reserve is a must-visit for anyone passionate about bird watching in Uganda.

Birding Trails in Kalinzu Forest

  • Main Trail (Forest Walk): A popular trail through dense rainforest, home to species like the African Green Broadbill, Great Blue Turaco, and White-tailed Blue Flycatcher.
  • Bamboo Trail: Takes you through bamboo areas, ideal for spotting rare species such as the African Green Broadbill and turaco.
  • Savannah/Edge Trail: Runs along the forest’s edge into open savannah, attracting species like the Black-billed Turaco and cuckoos.
  • Wetland/Stream Trail: Follows streams and wetland areas, great for spotting water birds like herons and kingfishers.
  • Extension Trail: A longer, more challenging trail deeper into the forest, offering opportunities to see elusive species like the White-tailed Blue Flycatcher.

Bird Species in Kalinzu Forest

  • Great blue turaco
  • Black-billed turaco
  • Black and white casqued hornbill
  • Cuckoos
  • Sunbirds
  • Hammerkops
  • Verreaux eagle
  • Crowned eagles
  • African emerald cuckoo
  • Alpine swift, among others

Other Activities Carried Out In Kalinzu Forest

  • Chimpanzee tracking in Kalinzu forest

Chimpanzee tracking is the main activity carried out in Kalinzu forest. The Central Forest Reserve hosts some of the largest chimp colonies in Uganda and it is arguably the second best place for chimpanzee tracking in Uganda after Kibale national park. The forest hosts 320 chimpanzees and approximately 50 chimpanzees are habituated (open to tourism), offering a unique opportunity to observe these primates in their natural habitats. Most tourists from Queen Elizabeth National park prefer tracking chimps in Kalinzu forest despite the fact that the park has its own chimp community at Kyambura Gorge. It is easy to reach Kalinzu forest through the Mweya sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park. The drive only takes about 40 minutes. Kalinzu chimpanzee tracking permits are cheap compared to elsewhere in Uganda and tracking usually takes 3-4 hours

  • Nature walks

Guided nature walks in kalinzu forest are truly memorable and offer an extensive understanding of the dense forest filled with breathtaking views of the water falls, primate calls and singing birds. Hiking the kishunja hill view point can also offer you a panoramic view of the top of the forest as well as the Rwenzori mountain ranges and Queen Elizabeth national park.

Kalinzu central forest reserve has got 4 different nature walk trails which include;

The river trail; this is the best trail for chimpanzee tracking and it takes 1 hour to complete it. This trail also leads to river kajojo where elephants bath from.

The valley trail; this trail leads to spectacular views of the valley and forest canopies, its takes about 4hours to complete it and one can encounter different forest’s critters and primates.

The waterfall trail; offers enormous breath taking views of kalinzu forest and takes 4-6 hours leading to the exceptional kilyantama waterfall. The trail traverses through high elevation areas that display a beautiful landscape of the forest reserve.

The palm trail; on the other hand, this trail takes 2 hours of hiking the flat terrain with chances of seeing unique tree species such as the flame tree, the dragon tree and the Raphia palms which are used to make traditional mats.

  • Wildlife viewing

The fact that the forest is located adjacent Queen Elizabeth national park and Maramagambo forest, Kalinzu attracts some wildlife animals which include leopards, antelopes and warthogs that cross to eat in the forest. The forest area that connects to Queen Elizabeth national park also offers a great chance to witness some of the large mammals and even big cats.

  • Butterfly identification

 Have guided walk to the forest in the morning or evening and identify over 200 different types of butterflies hence adding richness to your Kalinzu forest experience.

  • Camping

The forest offers a perfect site for camping activities, established in the center of the forest where tourists can sleep close to nature and enjoy a beautiful African night while listening to amazing sounds of the nocturnal creatures.

  • Research and conservation education

The Nkombe visitor’s center located in the northeastern part of Kalinzu forest reserve facilitates research and conservation education activities for students and visitors alike. There are staff and rangers to give you information and make sure that your experience is fun and safe. Permission to access the forest must be obtained from them.

The Best Time to Visit Kalinzu Forest

The best time to visit Kalinzu Forest for bird watching is during the dry seasons, from December to February and June to September. During these months, the trails are more accessible, and birds are more active. Migratory species also visit, enhancing the birding experience. However, bird watching is great year-round, with the rainy seasons (March to May and October to November) bringing lush greenery and breeding birds, though trails may be more challenging due to the wet conditions.

How to get to Kalinzu forest

Kalinzu forest is strategically along the Mbarara- kasese highway 375km from Kampala city close to the Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth national park.

Accommodation in Kalinzu forest

 Currently there is no standard/formal lodging options inside Kalinzu Forest. Those who choose to camp may do so, but must provide their own bedding, food, and tents. The major camping area is near the forest offices (Nkombe forest station) however, it only offers minimal amenities such as solar-powered showers and pit latrines. Water and firewood may be arranged at the station or purchased at the local commercial center on the Kasese-Mbarara route.

Visitors can also use accommodation in Queen Elizabeth National Park which includes;

 Mweya Safari Lodge: A luxury lodge located within the park, offering stunning views, top-notch amenities, and a great base for both bird watching in Kalinzu and game viewing in Queen Elizabeth.

Ishasha Wilderness Camp: Situated in the southern part of the park, this camp provides a more intimate, tented safari experience with excellent birding opportunities in the area

Conclusion

Kalinzu Forest is an unspoiled treasure for birdwatchers, offering an authentic and immersive birding experience in Uganda. Its diverse habitats, rich birdlife, and serene atmosphere make it a must-visit for anyone looking to connect with nature and explore the beauty of Uganda’s avian world. Whether you’re a seasoned birder or a nature lover looking to discover something new, Kalinzu Forest promises an unforgettable adventure.