Getting to Kibale National Park in Uganda
Kibale National Park lies in western Uganda, near the town of Fort Portal. It is Uganda’s top destination for chimpanzee trekking and forest walks. The park is also part of the famous primate trail that links Queen Elizabeth, Bwindi, and Semuliki.
Getting there is easy with the right transport.
By Road from Kampala or Entebbe
Kibale is about 310 km from Kampala and 340 km from Entebbe. The journey takes about 5 to 6 hours by car, depending on traffic and road conditions.
Main Route:
- Kampala – Mityana – Mubende – Kyenjojo – Fort Portal – Kanyanchu Visitor Center
This is the most direct and scenic route. Roads are paved until Fort Portal. From there, a 25 km murram road leads to Kanyanchu—the park’s main visitor center.
A 4×4 Land Cruiser is strongly recommended for a smooth experience, especially during the rainy season.
By Road from Queen Elizabeth or Mbarara
From Queen Elizabeth National Park (Mweya Peninsula) to Kibale is about 120 km via Kasese and Fort Portal. The drive takes around 2.5 to 3 hours.
From Mbarara, you can reach Kibale via Ibanda and Kamwenge. This route is useful if you’re combining multiple parks in western Uganda.
By Air (Charter Flights)
You can fly from Entebbe to Kasese Airstrip, which is about 1.5 to 2 hours’ drive from Kibale.
Bar Aviation and Aerolink Uganda offer domestic flights to Kasese. You’ll need a 4×4 vehicle pickup from the airstrip to your lodge.
Though more costly, flights save time and suit luxury safari travelers.
Closest Towns and Services
- Fort Portal: Major town, 35 km from the park
- Kanyanchu: Main tourism hub within the park
- Fuel, banks, ATMs, and accommodations are available in Fort Portal.
Travel Tips
- Book a 4×4 Land Cruiser with a professional driver-guide.
- Bring insect repellent and waterproof clothing if trekking chimpanzees.
- Combine Kibale with nearby parks like Queen Elizabeth or Semuliki for a richer itinerary.
Plan Your Safari Today
Kibale National Park offers an unmatched primate experience. Chimpanzee tracking here is intense, immersive, and unforgettable. Getting there is simple—with proper planning and the right transport.
Book your 4×4 vehicle, confirm your permits, and plan your Kibale safari today.
