Kalinzu Central Forest Reserve
Tucked in the rolling hills of western Uganda, Kalinzu Central Forest Reserve is a lush, biodiverse woodland that feels wild, authentic, and deeply alive. While it may not have the fame of Bwindi or Kibale, Kalinzu offers a raw and rewarding forest experience—especially for travelers seeking a less-crowded primate trekking destination.
With over 400 chimpanzees, towering tropical trees, and a wide range of bird and butterfly species, Kalinzu is one of Uganda’s best-kept secrets for nature lovers, hikers, and conservation-minded travelers.
Where Is Kalinzu Forest Located?
Kalinzu Forest lies in Bushenyi District, in western Uganda. It borders the Queen Elizabeth National Park and is about 10 km from Ishaka and 40 km from Kasese. Its location makes it a perfect stopover between gorilla trekking in Bwindi and wildlife safaris in Queen Elizabeth.
The forest covers over 147 square kilometers and sits at an altitude of 1,400 meters, making it cooler and pleasant for trekking year-round.
Why Visit Kalinzu Central Forest Reserve?
Chimpanzee Tracking
Kalinzu is one of the best places in Uganda to track wild chimpanzees. About 320 of the 400 chimpanzees in the forest are habituated, which means they are used to human presence and can be visited safely with trained guides.
The tracking experience is intimate and less commercial than in Kibale. You walk through dense jungle paths, guided by the sound of hoots and rustling leaves until you find a chimp troop going about its day—feeding, grooming, playing, or swinging through the canopy.
- Tracking duration: 3 to 4 hours
- Permit cost: Around USD $50 per person (much cheaper than Kibale’s permits)
- Best time: Dry seasons (June to August and December to February)
Biodiversity and Scenery
Kalinzu is a biodiversity hotspot. It hosts:
- Over 300 bird species (great for birdwatchers)
- More than 260 tree species
- About 100 butterfly species
- Several other primates: black-and-white colobus monkeys, blue monkeys, vervet monkeys, and olive baboons
The forest trails lead to scenic views of the Rift Valley and the plains of Queen Elizabeth National Park. On a clear day, you may even spot Lake Edward shimmering in the distance.
Top Activities in Kalinzu Forest
- Chimpanzee Tracking – The main highlight; requires a permit and briefing from UWA guides.
- Guided Nature Walks – Trek deep into the forest to learn about medicinal plants, trees, and local wildlife.
- Birdwatching Tours – Especially rewarding during early mornings. Bring binoculars and a good guide.
- Butterfly and Insect Walks – Fascinating for those interested in forest ecology.
- Cultural Storytelling – Some tours include insights into local legends and the cultural significance of the forest.
Accommodation Near Kalinzu
Kalinzu does not have high-end lodges inside the reserve, but there are good options nearby:
- Budget to Midrange:
- Crater Bay Cottages (Kabale)
- Pumba Safari Cottages
- Engiri Game Lodge (near Queen Elizabeth NP)
- Luxury Options (in Queen Elizabeth NP):
- Kyambura Gorge Lodge
- Mweya Safari Lodge
- Ishasha Wilderness Camp
How to Get There
- By road from Kampala: Approx. 6–7 hours drive via Mbarara and Ishaka
- From Queen Elizabeth NP: Just 30–45 minutes from the Mweya sector
- Nearest airstrip: Mweya Airstrip (for fly-in safaris from Entebbe)
Tips for Visiting Kalinzu Forest
- Wear good hiking boots—it gets muddy, especially in the wet season.
- Carry insect repellent and water.
- Book chimp permits in advance through Uganda Wildlife Authority or a local tour operator.
- Hire a knowledgeable guide for better wildlife tracking and birdwatching.
Plan Your Visit to Kalinzu Forest
Kalinzu Central Forest Reserve offers authentic jungle trekking without the crowds. It’s more affordable than Kibale, easier to access than Bwindi, and packed with rich biodiversity. If you’re looking for a quiet primate experience, deep nature walks, and panoramic forest views, Kalinzu makes a perfect addition to any western Uganda safari.
Combine it with a chimpanzee trek in the morning and a game drive in Queen Elizabeth National Park in the afternoon—and you’ve got one of the most complete, affordable, and rewarding wildlife days in East Africa.
