Sanctuary & Forest · Bushenyi & Rubirizi
Kalinzu Forest Reserve
A quiet, community-friendly forest next to Queen Elizabeth National Park, with habituated chimpanzees and excellent birding.
How to get there
By road from Queen Elizabeth National Park or Bushenyi, on the Mbarara–Kasese road.
What to find
Chimpanzee tracking, several other primate species, butterflies and forest birds.
Overview
Kalinzu Forest Reserve covers about 137 km² of tropical forest on the edge of Queen Elizabeth National Park, managed by the National Forestry Authority. It has been used for long-term chimpanzee research for decades.
Kalinzu has habituated chimpanzees and several other primate species, including L'Hoest's monkeys and black-and-white colobus. It also has hundreds of bird and butterfly species, and far fewer visitors than Kibale.
Highlights
- Chimpanzee tracking with fewer visitors
- Six primate species
- Rich birding and butterfly life
- An easy add-on to Queen Elizabeth
Things to do
Chimpanzee tracking
Morning treks. We confirm current prices.
Nature walks
Trails to waterfalls and forest viewpoints.
Birding
Forest species, some rare elsewhere.
Best time to visit
All year. Early mornings are best for chimps.
Getting there
About 30 to 45 minutes by road from the Kasenyi and Mweya area of Queen Elizabeth National Park.
Where to stay
Stay in Queen Elizabeth National Park or around Kyambura.
See accommodation options in Uganda →
Good to know
- A good alternative when Kibale permits are sold out.
Permit prices, park rules and access can change. We always confirm the latest details when we plan your trip.