Budongo Forest Tours and Safaris in Uganda

Budongo Forest is the only natural forest in Uganda that has existed for centuries. It is a famous tourist destination known for Chimpanzee Safaris, abundant African mahogany, and guided nature walk safaris. Budongo Forest is part of the Murchison Falls National Park Conservation Area. Therefore, tourists can explore Murchison Falls at Budongo Forest by cruising a boat along the River Nile.

Collectively, Budongo is the ideal place for nature walks, bird watching & photography, and Chimpanzee trekking. Spot, interact, and take pictures with Chimpanzees along the Bugondo trails with the help of a professional guide – Nature’s Wonderland Safaris.

Budongo Forest Informational Facts 

  • Location: Bugondo Forest is in Uganda on the Escarpment Northeast of Lake Alberta
  • Nearest Town: Masindi
  • Area: It covers an area of about 435 sq. km
  • Climate: Has a moderate amount of rainfall with an annual amount of 1200mm – 2200mm
  • Budongo Forest has clear water streams that drain to Lake Albert. The streams include Waisoke, Sonso, Kamirambwa, and Siba.
  • It is mainly composed of moist, medium-altitude forest with patches of Savannah and Woodland
Akagera National Park zebras

Budongo Forest  Safaris and Tours

Attractions in Budongo Forest 

Budongo forest biodiversity offers a diverse range of activities that meet different interests. From birdwatching to chimpanzee trekking. Below are the activities available for Budongo forest tours;

Chimpanzee Trekking

Embark on a guided Chimpanzee trek to observe these primates in their natural habitat. Budongo forest is the best place for Chimpanzee trekking in Uganda. Spot, capture, interact, and make memories with these primates with our comprehensive Budongo Forest Safaris.

Chimpanzee Habituation

In addition to regular tracking, tourists can participate in the Chimpanzee Habituation Experience (CHEX. This allows for a more extended interaction with the chimpanzees as they conduct their daily activities.

Bird Watching and Photography

Budongo Forest is the go-to destination for bird watchers. It has some of the rarest birds in East Africa and over 360 recorded bird species, both migratory and residential. It offers some of the best birding in Uganda. Budongo Forest has two spots for bird watching; The Royal Mile at Busingiro,Kaniyo Pabidi

Game Drives 

With Budongo Forest Safaris, tourists can go for game drives at Murchison National Park, adjacent to the forest. The Murchison National Park has a diverse range of wildlife, including; Giraffes, Hippos, Wathorgs, Antelopes

Boat Cruising along River Nile

Budongo Forest offers scenic boat cruising to Murchison Falls along the River Nile. The boat cruise heads towards the base of the falls, where the River narrows and cascades through a narrow gorge. From the river, tourists experience stunning views of the falls and the wildlife and birds at the riverbanks. In addition, tourists can catch sunset on the River Nile, with sunset cruises available in the evening.

Guided Nature Walks

Guided nature walks are among the most therapeutic activities in the Budongo forest. With the company of guides, tourists can walk through the Budongo trails and Kaniyo Pabidi eco-tourism center. Kaniyo Pabidi is recommended because the center has tall mahogany trees over 70 years old.

Best Time to Visit Budongo Forest 

The best time to visit Budongo forest is during the dry season between December and February and from June to September.  

June to September is the main fruiting season. Therefore, many birds are on a breeding spree during this time, making it the perfect season for bird-watching safaris. 

wildlife photography

Accommodations in Budongo Forest 

  • Budongo Eco Lodge: Budongo Eco Lodge is the main accommodation facility within Budongo Forest Reserve.
  • Masindi Hotel: Masindi Hotel is one of the oldest hotels in Uganda. It is located near Masindi Town
  • New Court View: New Court View Hotel is a popular option for travelers visiting Budongo Forest and Murchison Falls National Park
  • Kabalega Resort

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