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Semuliki National Park
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Park Overview

Semuliki National Park is a hidden gem tucked away in the far western corner of Uganda, renowned for its rich biodiversity and rare species. Gazetted as a national park in 1993, it spans approximately 220 square kilometers and lies at an altitude between 670 and 760 meters above sea level. The park stretches across the Semuliki Valley on the remote western side of the Rwenzori Mountains, where it borders the Democratic Republic of Congo.

This enchanting destination forms part of the easternmost extension of the vast Ituri Forest of the Congo Basin—one of Africa’s most ancient and biodiverse forests, and among the few that survived the last Ice Age over 12,000 years ago. Semuliki’s lush forest landscape is dotted with towering West African oil palms and threaded by the Semuliki River, which acts as a natural border between Uganda and the DRC, resembling a miniature Congo River.

Semuliki is home to an impressive range of wildlife, including 53 species of mammals, 27 of which are large mammals. Unique and rare species like the pygmy antelope, two flying squirrel species, and the elusive water chevrotain (also called the fanged deer) are found only in this park. Additionally, the park supports populations of primates such as chimpanzees, De Brazza’s monkeys, Dent’s Mona monkeys, as well as forest elephants, buffaloes, and multiple antelope species.

For bird enthusiasts, Semuliki is a true paradise, boasting 441 recorded bird species, including 23 Albertine Rift endemics. This makes it one of the top forest birding destinations in Africa.

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Why go to
Semuliki National Park

1. Bird Watching

Semuliki National Park is one of Africa’s richest forest birding destinations, making it a must-visit for bird watchers. With over 441 recorded bird species, birders can expect exceptional sightings, especially around Sempaya and Ntandi. Notable species include:

  • White-crested Hornbill

  • Red-billed Dwarf Hornbill

  • Piping Hornbill

  • Yellow-throated Nicator

The Kirumia River trail is another birding hotspot, offering chances to see both forest and riverine species. Moreover, the shores of nearby Lake Albert often reward visitors with sightings of the rare and iconic Shoebill Stork.

2. Nature Walks and Hiking

Nature walks are a great way to explore Semuliki's rich ecosystems on foot. The 13 km Kirumia Trail offers a full-day hike through the heart of the park, taking approximately 8 hours. Along this trail, visitors may spot primates, butterflies, and exotic flora.

Another option is the Sempaya Nature Trail, an 8 km loop that can be completed in 2–4 hours during the morning or evening. This trail offers a chance to see the De Brazza’s monkey, along with views of the hot springs and various bird and primate species.

3. Hot Springs Exploration

The Sempaya Hot Springs are among Semuliki’s most fascinating features. There are two main springs:

  • The Male Spring is reached via a longer trail that winds through a forest inhabited by red-tailed monkeys, grey-cheeked mangabeys, and black-and-white colobus monkeys. A wooden treehouse along the way offers a fantastic aerial view.

  • The Female Spring is accessed by a 30-minute walk through a palm forest. This spring features a boiling geyser where temperatures are high enough to cook eggs and plantains, a fun and popular activity for visitors.

4. Game Drives (Toro-Semuliki Wildlife Reserve)

Adjacent to Semuliki National Park lies the Toro-Semuliki Wildlife Reserve, which offers thrilling game drives across its savannah grasslands. The reserve has three main tracks where visitors can spot:

  • Forest and savannah elephants

  • Buffaloes

  • Warthogs

  • Crocodiles

  • Bush babies (especially during night drives)

  • Pygmy hippopotamus and leopards (rare but possible with luck)

Night game drives offer the best opportunity to observe nocturnal animals, including white-tailed mongooses and galagos (bush babies).

More of Uganda Destinations

Queen Elizabeth National Park
Kibale National Park
Mabamba Swamp
Murchison Falls National Park
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How to get there

By Road

From Kampala, there are two main road routes to Fort Portal, which is the gateway to Semuliki National Park:

  1. Via Mubende – This is the shorter route, approximately 180 kilometers, taking about 4–5 hours by car.

  2. Via Masaka–Mbarara–Ishaka–Kasese – This longer scenic route covers about 465 kilometers, requiring 7–8 hours of travel.

From Fort Portal, the park is roughly 52 kilometers southwest, and the drive takes about 1–2 hours on a well-maintained road. A 4×4 vehicle is recommended, especially during the rainy season, for a more comfortable journey.

By Air

Travelers preferring air travel can charter domestic flights to Kasese Airstrip from Entebbe International Airport. From Kasese, it’s a 2–3-hour drive to Semuliki National Park by road.

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