Sanctuary & Forest · Next to Kibale National Park
Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary
A community-run swamp sanctuary on Kibale's edge, famous for primates, birds and supporting local development.
How to get there
About 6 km from Kibale's Kanyanchu visitor centre, roughly 45 minutes from Fort Portal.
What to find
Guided wetland walks with primates such as red colobus, and more than 200 bird species, including the great blue turaco.
Overview
Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary is run by KAFRED, a local community organisation set up in 1992 to protect the Magombe Swamp. Tourism income funds local schools, health projects and conservation.
A boardwalk and trail loop through the swamp and forest edge brings you close to several primate species and a huge variety of birds. It's one of Uganda's best-known community tourism projects.
Highlights
- Primates including red colobus and grey-cheeked mangabeys
- The great blue turaco and more than 200 bird species
- Boardwalks through papyrus and forest
- A community tourism success story
Things to do
Wetland walk
About 3 hours with a local guide.
Village walk
Visit local homes and projects.
Best time to visit
All year. Mornings are best for birds.
Getting there
About 6 km from Kanyanchu, easy to combine with chimp tracking in Kibale.
Where to stay
Stay around Kibale or Fort Portal.
Kibale & Fort Portal
A selection of well-known options, not a complete list. See all accommodation in Uganda →
Good to know
- Do it the afternoon after your morning chimp trek.
Permit prices, park rules and access can change. We always confirm the latest details when we plan your trip.