Semuliki National Park

The park lies 52km northwest of Fort Portal, located in the Bundibugyo District, on the far side of the northern tail of the Rwenzori Mountain range, it is a very dense tropical forest, which has an extension of the Congo’s Ituri rain forest, but with some grassland, wetland and bamboo forest. The Semliki River defines the border with the democratic Republic of Congo and several tributaries run through the park, providing watering places and good spots to observe animals. Adjacent to the park at Ntandi there is a small Pygmy culture living nearby. Local communities in the area are Bakonjo and Bamba peoples both of which are peoples of short stature. There are also some hot springs, birds and animals which act as an attraction of the park to the tourist. Semliki River attracts buffalo and elephant which are difficult to see as is all game on a visit to the park.

There is over 400 species of birds recorded in Semliki. Birding in Semliki is one of the main reasons to visit the park due to the presence of over 400 bird species such as the White Crested, Red and black Dwarf,  Wattled Casque, Red Rumped Tinker Bird, Palm Greenbul. A series of trails has been developed in the forest to provide access for birders. During the rain season these trails would be extremely wet under foot.

Activities
* A short guided trail leads from the roadside tourist office to the Sempaya Hot Springs. Sempaya hot springs are Semliki’s most famous attraction. Visit the springs which are set in a lush swampy clearing close to the south eastern corner of the forest and walk to Semliki River is a must for Birders.

* Sempaya- Ntandi road runs through one of the loveliest tracks of the forest in Uganda and provides clear views up into the forest canopy to spot birds and monkeys.

* The monkey trail runs from Sempaya to reach the river as it emerges from the forest. Have the opportunity to sight grassland as well as forest birds.

Accommodation

• Semliki Safari Lodge
• Semliki Guesthouse
• Sempaya Rest camp
• Picfare Guesthouse
• National Park Bandas and campsites
• Hotel Vanilla
• Kirimia Guesthouse