Sanctuary & Forest · Mpigi
Mpanga Forest Reserve
A small tropical forest less than an hour from Kampala, with butterflies, birds and quiet forest trails.
How to get there
About 37 km from Kampala on the Kampala–Masaka road, near Mpigi town.
What to find
Guided forest walks, birding, butterflies, and red-tailed monkeys.
Overview
Mpanga Forest Reserve is a small patch of tropical forest near Mpigi, managed by the National Forestry Authority. It's one of the most accessible natural forests near Kampala.
Well-marked trails lead through tall trees with red-tailed monkeys, forest birds and many species of butterfly. It's a peaceful escape from the city, and fits easily into a day trip along the Masaka road.
Highlights
- Forest trails close to Kampala
- Butterflies and forest birds
- Red-tailed monkeys
- Easy to combine with the Equator and CTC near Mpigi
Things to do
Guided nature walk
Trails of 1 to 3 hours.
Birding and butterflies
Best in the early morning.
Best time to visit
All year.
Getting there
About an hour by road from Kampala, depending on traffic.
Where to stay
Visit as a day trip from Kampala or Entebbe, or on the way to Masaka and Lake Mburo.
See accommodation options in Uganda →
Good to know
- Pair with a stop at the Equator and CTC Conservation Center.
Permit prices, park rules and access can change. We always confirm the latest details when we plan your trip.