KALINZU FOREST

Located in parts of Kyamuhunga and Nyabubaare sub-counties in Bushenyi district but also another part is shared by Rubirizi District. It is on Bushenyi- Kasese highway. Its approximately 375km, 5hour drive from Kampala.This is one of the natural forests in Uganda that has got a great impact on the tourism industry of Uganda due to its wide range of biodiversity and physical features.This is a natural rain forest. It is canopied which means it is shady throughout. It habits 414 tree species, 379 species of birds, 262 butterflies and it is evident that it has got only two species that are not found elsewhere in the world. The tour for monkey tracking takes about 2-3 hours and one is able to see the various types of monkeys like the blue monkeys, vervet monkeys, and black and white Columbus monkeys and the rare L’hoest monkeys.River trails in kajojo or Elephant River where animals like to bath are also seen along the way.Valley trails that lead you to a great view of the fascinating forest features are also evidenced.Palm trail which is 5km with its unique tree species like flame, dragon, saphia palms etc.Waterfall trail which is 11km and therefore being the longest in karinju which passes through the highly and wet areas of the forest.And not forgetting the forest walks which take place within the forested parts of the reserve.Accommodation in the reserve is informal with only a do it yourself camping site at the forest station (nkombe). Visistors are encouraged to carry their own tents or they seek a modest accommodation in bushenyi or ishaka towns. However the construction of a mega hotel called Victoria Falls is ongoing and this will solve the issue of accommodation hopefully.Activities carried out at Kalinzu forest reserve include;Bird watchingEco tourismChimp trekking of which permits are cheaper than elsewhere in Uganda.The success rate of spotting chimpanzees in Kalinzu forest is 95%. The cost of a chimpanzee permit in Kalinzu forest is $50. This is far less than the $150 charged in Kibale National Park. Chimpanzee permits can be booked at the reception Centre of the reserve or more conveniently through a tour operator. Though Chimpanzee permits in Kalinzu forest can be got on the day of tracking, it is important to book in advance to be on the safer side.Forest walks/nature walksMonkey trackingResearch and educationButterfly identificationSmall mammal viewingConservation educationChimp habituation