5-day Murchison falls, Semuliki and Fort Portal hopping

About this tour

Semuliki National Park is a hidden gem nestled in the Western Region of Uganda. Here are some fascinating details:

Location and Landscape: Semuliki National Park lies in Bwamba County, within the Bundibugyo District. It’s situated on the border with the Democratic Republic of the Congo, making it a unique cross-border conservation area. The park is part of the Albertine Rift, which is the western arm of the East African Rift. Imagine lush lowland tropical rainforests—the only ones of their kind in East Africa—stretching across 219 square kilometers (about 85 square miles).

Biodiversity: Semuliki is a biodiversity hotspot. Seriously, it’s like Mother Nature decided to show off here. The flora and fauna are mind-bogglingly diverse. You’ll find rare bird species, vibrant butterflies, and an array of other wildlife. The park is managed by the Uganda Wildlife Authority, who do an excellent job of preserving this natural wonder.

Hot Springs: Semuliki boasts not one but two hot springs!  The Sempaya Hot Springs are a must-see. One of them, called Mumbuga Spring, even shoots up like a mini geyser, reaching half a meter high. Impressive, right? These hot springs attract all sorts of creatures, from shorebirds to animals seeking salt licks.

Activities: Birdwatching enthusiasts, rejoice! Semuliki is a paradise for birders. Keep your binoculars handy. Take a stroll through the savannah grasslands and soak in the natural beauty. If you’re up for a longer adventure, tackle the 13-kilometer (about 8.1 miles) Kirumia Trail—it’s like a forest hike with bonus wildlife sightings. And yes, you can visit the hot springs. Fun fact: The water is hot enough to cook eggs and plantains. Breakfast, anyone?

Climate: Expect an average annual rainfall of 1,250 millimeters (about 49 inches). The wettest months are March to May and September to December. Temperatures range from 18 to 30°C (64 to 86°F), with pleasantly small daily variations.

History: Before becoming a national park in October 1993, this area was managed as a forest reserve. It’s now an integral part of the protected areas in the Western Rift Valley. Semuliki is part of a network of protected spaces in the Albertine Rift Valley, alongside other gems like Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Queen Elizabeth National Park.

So, if you’re ready for an adventure that involves rainforests, hot springs, and wildlife galore, Semuliki National Park awaits!