Semliki National Park
Semuliki National Park is found in Bundibugyo district in western Uganda along the border with the Democratic Republic of Congo. The park supports an extension of the Guinea – Congo biome forests from the Democratic Republic of Congo thereby bringing in species and features associated with the central Africa area that cannot be found anywhere else in East Africa. On a Semuliki National Park tour you will therefore have a feel of central Africa without having to leave Uganda (East Africa).
Wildlife in Semuliki National Park
Semuliki’s habitats range from grassland, savanna, lowland tropical forests, and wetlands. The park therefore supports a big species diversity. Over 441 species of birds have been recorded including a good mix of Albertine Rift and Congo – Biome Species. Up to 53 mammals inhabit the park, including 11 species which are endemic to the park including the Lord Derby’s scaly-tailed squirrel, pygmy flying squirrel, Beecroft’s flying squirrel, water chevrotain, target rat, little-collared fruit bat, bay duiker, and mona monkey among others. In the forest, one can encounter big game such as forest elephants, and buffaloes, and several species of primates including Chimpanzees, Red-cheeked Mangabey, and Central Africa Red Colobus. River Semuliki is home to Crocodiles and Hippos.
Things to do in Semuliki National Park
Trekking the Sempaya Hot Springs trail
The Sempaya Hot Springs are the icon of the Semuliki National Park. They are the most visited part of the park. The springs boil at 103 degrees Celcius, enough heat to boil bananas and eggs in less than ten minutes. You shall experiment with cooking bananas in boiling water.
The tour is 2 – 3 hours long including the experience at the springs.
The Sempaya trail goes through forest habitat which harbours many species of birds and monkeys that you will enjoy sighting during the trek.
Birdwatching
Home to over 400 bird species, Semuliki is one of the top destinations for birding safaris in Uganda. It is one of the Important Birding Areas (IBA) for Uganda as well. Semuliki National Park is mostly sought for the Guinea – Congo forest biome endemic birds from Central Africa which cannot be found anywhere else in East Africa. About 36 species have been identified so far. Some of Semuliki’s specials include Black-casqued Wattled Hornbill, African Dwarf Kingfisher, Brown-eared Woodpecker, Red-tailed Greenbull, and Brown-chested Alethe.
Nature Walks/Hikes
There are good hiking trails that offer access to forest, savanna and water habitats in Semuliki. You will take a walk led by a knowledgeable park range to observe and learn about plenty of wildlife and access wonderful views across Semuliki. The walk is about 2 to 3 hours long.
Chimpanzee tracking
A group of Chimps in the forest is being habituated for another of chimpanzee trekking tours in Uganda. The chimps travel widely through the forest looking for scarce food while doing so the chimps sometimes cross from the forest into the savanna which makes following them up a challenge but the guides have good knowledge of their movements and may easily succeed in anticipating their locations. Treks start as early as possible, and will start looking from the spots the chimps made their nests for the night. Plenty of plants, birds, and animals will be encountered in the forest.
Treks are lead by rangers undertaking the habituation.
Guided game walks in Toro-Semuliki Wildlife Reserve
The morning walk in the wildlife reserve will offer you up close views of animals, birds, and plants. The walk is led by an armed ranger. Antelopes and Elephants are a common sight. The walk also offers wonderful views of the scenic savanna and rift valley escarpment.
Boat excursions on Lake Albert
Boat excursions on Lake Albert reward with plenty of wildlife and nice scenery. Hippos and several bird species can be sighted during the excursion. Birdwatchers will the early morning session to search for Shoebill and see other water species.
How to reach Semliki National Park
Accomodation at Semliki National Park
Semuliki Safari Lodge
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