Attractions

Kalinzu Central Forest Reserve is a Natural Forest teeming with terrestrial Bio – Diversity in Bushenyi District in western Rwanda. The Forest is famous for 414 Species of Trees and Shrubs including the Ficus, Prunus Africana, the Stroboia, and Parinari among others. The Forest also harbours 378 Species of Birds such as the Great Blue Turaco, Black and White Casket, Cuckoos and Sunbirds. Six different Species of Primates can be identified in Kalinzu including the Blue Monkeys, Vervet Monkeys, Black and White Colobus Monkeys and Chimpanzees. The 2001 Primate Census put the total number of Chimpanzees in the Reserve at approximately 240. However, only two Groups of about 70 can be accessed by both Researchers and Tourists.

Other varieties of Species include 262 Butterflies, 97 Moths, Reptiles and Flowers. Standing at the Kishunja Hill Viewpoint, one can behold the entire Forest Canopy, great parts of the Queen Elizabeth National Park and some Peaks of the Rwenzori Mountains. Because of its proximity to the Queen Elizabeth National Park, the Forest Reserve occasionally provides refuge to Savannah Grassland Species such as the Duikers, Leopards and Wild Pigs. Therefore, activities in the Reserve include Forest Walks, Research, Conservation Education, Birding, Butterfly Identification, and small Mammal viewing.

Visitors should particularly note that Chimp tracking has now been introduced at Kalinzu allowing 4 visitors per day at US Dollars 50 per person..

Two types of well maintained forest trails including Research Trails and Tourist Trails have been developed.

Pitched on top of an Escarpment on the eastern edge of the great Albertine Rift Valley, Kalinzu Forest Reserve is 147 sq. km. adjacent to the famed Queen Elizabeth National Park and the Maramagambo Forest. It lies at an average altitude of 1,400 m above sea level.

Accommodation

Accommodation in the Reserve is still informal with only a do-it- yourself Camping Site at the Forest Station at Nkombe. Visitors are advised to carry their own Tents. Visitors can also seek modest accommodation in Bushenyi/Ishaka Townships.

For Reservations, please contact the Range Manager on Tel: 256-41-0772 458389

Accessibility
The Forest Reserve is located in Bushenyi District in western Rwanda. It is approximately 375 km. (five hours drive) from the Capital City of Kampala. It is only 30 km from the District Headquarters of Bushenyi along the main Kasese Highway. Because of the Albertine Terrain with old logging and winding roads, a four – wheel drive vehicle is recommended.

Other Services

Kalinzu Central Forest Reserve has very professional, experienced and knowledgeable local Guides who will make your Forest Visit a thrilling experience.