Semuliki National Park, located in Bwamba County, Bundibugyo District,
western Uganda, was established in October 1993. Covering 194 sq km
(75 sq mi), it features East Africa's only lowland tropical rainforest within
the Semuliki Valley, characterized by the eastern extension of the Ituri
Forest from the Congo Basin. This ancient ecosystem, home to diverse
plant and animal life, survived the last ice age around 12,000 to 18,000
years ago.
Four ethnic groups inhabit the area: Bwamba farmers at the base of the
Rwenzori Mountains, Bakonjo on the slopes, Batuku cattle keepers in
the plains, and Batwa pygmies in Sebitoli, who still utilize park resources
despite their relocation.
Renowned for its biodiversity, Semuliki National Park is managed by the
Uganda Wildlife Authority and runs along the 160 km-long Semuliki
River, which feeds into Lake Albert and the Nile, supporting the historical
claims about the Nile's origin.
Semuliki National Park is home to East Africa's rare lowland tropical
forests, featuring over 440 bird species, with 66% being forest birds,
including the lyre-tailed honeyguide and the rare Forest Ground Thrush.
The park also supports 9 primate species, 63 mammal species like
elephants and leopards, and over 374 butterfly species, making it a
prime birding destination.
It receives an average rainfall of 1,250 mm (49 in), with peaks from
March to May and September to December, and temperatures range
from 18 to 30 °C (64 to 86 °F).
Visitors can enjoy activities such as bird watching, game drives, and
hiking the 13-kilometer Kirumia Trail. Notable attractions include hot
springs, where water can reach high temperatures for cooking food. The
park ranks 68th among Uganda's attractions, emphasizing its
significance as a safari destination.
The Semuliki and Lamia Rivers provide essential water sources, and the
Mumbuga spring can spout water up to 0.5 meters high, attracting
diverse wildlife. Other activities include nature walks, community
interactions, boat rides on Lake Albert, and sport fishing.
3 Days Semuliki Tours
Major Safari Highlights include Game Drive in Semuliki National Park,
Visit the Hot Springs, Scenic views and photography, Boat Cruise on
Lake Albert and Nature Walks
Day 1: Kampala to Semuliki National Park
After arriving at Entebbe International Airport, you will meet your safari
guide for a briefing before heading to Semuliki National Park.
Depart from Kampala post-breakfast, traveling through the lush
landscapes of the Nile Delta. After lunch, explore the famous Sempaya
hot springs: the 'male' hot spring, 'Bintente,' spans 12 meters, while the
'female' hot spring, 'Nyasimbi,' features a boiling geyser reaching up to
103°C.
Dinner and accommodation at a lodge or hotel in Semiliki. Meal Plan:
Lunch and Dinner.
Duration: Approximately 6 hours via Fort Portal Mityana Highway and 7
hours via Mpigi Mubende Highway.
Day 2: Boatride on Lake Albert
Start the day with a boat ride on Lake Albert for excellent birdwatching,
particularly for the Shoebill and other species like the Blue Swallow,
Spotted Greenbul, and Northern Bearded Scrub-Robin.
After the boat ride, enjoy a game drive to your accommodation in
Semuliki National Park, home to diverse wildlife including forest
elephants, buffaloes, and over 53 mammal species, including the unique
water chevrotain.
Day 3: Departure for Kampala
The return trip to Kampala via Fort Portal – Mubende – Mityana highway
includes a lunch stop at a preferred restaurant. The itinerary concludes
with a transfer to Kampala and Entebbe International Airport for your
evening flight.
Day 1: Kampala to Semuliki National Park
Day 2: Boatride on Lake Albert
Day 3: Departure for Kampala
– Entrance fees
-All activities
-All accommodation
-A professional driver/guide
-All transportation
-All Taxes/VAT
-Round-trip airport transfer
-Meals
-Drinking water
-International flights (From/to home)
-Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour
-Tips (Tipping guideline US$10.00 pp per day)
-Personal items (Souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees, etc.)
-Government imposed increase of taxes and/or park fees