Semuliki National Park

Semuliki National Park is a unique and relatively lesser-known national park located in the western part of Uganda, near the border with the Democratic Republic of Congo. It is known for its exceptional biodiversity and rich ecosystems.

Semuliki National Park offers a unique and off-the-beaten-path experience for nature enthusiasts, birdwatchers, and those seeking a deeper understanding of the cultural heritage of the Batwa people. Its unspoiled rainforest, hot springs, and diverse wildlife make it a captivating destination within Uganda’s national park system.

What to Do in Semuliki National Park?

Tropical Rainforest

The park is dominated by a vast tract of pristine lowland tropical rainforest, which is part of the Congo Basin. It is one of the few remaining areas of true equatorial forest in East Africa. The rainforest is home to a wide array of plant species, including towering trees, colorful orchids, and diverse understory vegetation.

Wildlife

Semuliki National Park is renowned for its diverse wildlife. The park is home to several mammal species, including forest elephants, chimpanzees, Uganda kob, buffalo, and various monkeys such as the red-tailed monkey, grey-cheeked mangabey, and black-and-white colobus monkey. Additionally, over 400 bird species have been recorded, including the rare and endemic shoebill stork.

Sempaya Hot Springs

One of the main attractions in Semuliki National Park is the Sempaya Hot Springs. The park has two hot springs, the male (Bintente) and female (Nyasimbi) springs. These natural geothermal wonders offer visitors the opportunity to see boiling water spurting from the ground and experience the therapeutic effects of the hot mineral-rich waters.

Birdwatching

Semuliki National Park is a birdwatcher’s paradise. Its diverse habitats, including forest, savannah, and wetlands, provide a haven for a wide range of bird species. The park is especially known for its exceptional birdlife, including the rare and elusive African piculet, Nkulengu rail, and yellow-throated cuckoo.

Cultural Encounters

The park is home to the Batwa people, who are indigenous forest-dwelling communities. Visitors can engage in cultural encounters with the Batwa, learning about their traditional hunting and gathering practices, traditional dances, and way of life.

Nature Walks and Hiking

Semuliki National Park offers a network of trails that allow visitors to explore its diverse ecosystems and landscapes. Guided nature walks and hikes provide opportunities to observe wildlife, discover unique plant species, and appreciate the natural beauty of the rainforest.