Budongo Forest Reserve lies on the southern edge of Murchison Falls National Park. It is East Africa's largest natural mahogany forest and home to a habituated chimpanzee community that has been studied for decades.
Chimp tracking here is quieter and less busy than in Kibale. Success rates are generally lower, but the forest has an atmosphere of its own, with huge buttressed trees and a long bird list. For travellers heading to Murchison, it adds a primate experience without a detour.
Tall, mature rainforest dominated by mahogany and ironwood, with a network of trails, including the well-known Royal Mile.
Besides chimps, you are likely to see monkeys and hear hornbills overhead. Birders come for forest species found in few other places in Uganda.
Chimpanzee tracking with a guide (permit required)
Birdwatching on the Royal Mile
Forest walks
Tracking walks are on forest trails that can be muddy. Groups are small, and you are less likely to meet other visitors than in Kibale.
Year-round. The drier months, roughly December to February and June to August, make trails easier.
Read our full guide: Gorilla Trekking in Uganda: How It Works and How to Prepare »
About 4.5-5 hours by road north-west of Kampala, on the southern approach to Murchison Falls.
A small number of lodges and campsites at the forest edge; many visitors stay in Murchison and visit Budongo on the way.
Permits are separate from Kibale's
Quieter than Kibale, with somewhat lower sighting rates
Fits naturally into a Murchison Falls trip
Official park info: Uganda Wildlife Authority
Kibale has higher success rates. Budongo is quieter and convenient if you are already going to Murchison Falls.
Yes. We can arrange it as part of your Murchison itinerary.
Tell us your dates and we'll build an itinerary that includes it.
