Kalinzu forest is perfect for a nature walk through the forest. It is a refreshing experience with views of Mt. Rwenzori, Lake George and Kazinga channel. The forest is endowed with a number of animal species, tree species that are connected to the African culture and tradition, bird species, butterfly species, reptiles, flowers that will brighten your day, primates and reptiles.
In addition to it being good for a nature walk, the forest is popular for chimpanzee trekking. Kalinzu presents a variety of chimpanzees both habituated and un-habituated. The habituated chimpanzees make the trekking experience easier. The forest provides the best trekking permit rates compared to other reserves.
Apart from the chimpanzees the forest has other primates like monkeys (I’hoest, red-tailed colubus monkeys and the black billed turacos) and baboons.
The Kalinzu forest has another gem that you would want to visit and the fortune teller who is an old man in the hills. You will get information about the forest and the community.
The night life in the reserve is to die for, the sound from the forest nocturnal animals and creatures like crickets, the wind whirling and leaves clapping against each other.
NATURE ACTIVITIES
The dominant activity is natural walks that are categorized into four:
The valley trail
This adventure takes usually about 4 hours with a thrilling view of the steep slopes and the wonderful canopy of the thick green forest.
The waterfall trail
The waterfall trail is extensive with replenishing views of the kilyantama falls. Therefore it is a hilly terrain that provides an opportunity for a glimpse of the chimpanzees. It takes about 4 to 6 hours.
The palm trail
This is a 2 hour trail with views of various tree species on flat terrains with trees that are of sentimental value to the locals like the rare flame trees with red tulip flame leaves that is believed to enhance sexual urges.
The river trail
The 1 hour trail that is along River Kajojo gives a view to chimpanzees and other primates like the elephant river that refreshes from River Kajojo.
Accommodation in the forest
The best way to enjoy the night life in the forest is through camping at the forest’s camping site. This whole experience enhances the wild and natural experience/ adventure.
However those that are not interested in the camping experience can lodge at facilities near the forest reserve like Mweya safari lodge, Mweya hostels, Katara lodge, Jacana lodge, Park View safari lodge and many others.
Kalinzu Forest Reserve rules
Only 6 people can partake in a round hike
Keep the noise to minimum
Stay on the tourist trail
Do not litter
Do not feed the animals.
Getting to Kalinzu forest
The forest is along the Kasese-Mbarara highway, west of Ishasha in Queen Elizabeth national park. The reception is inside the national park.
By bus: It is 5hr drive from Kampala to Butare which is not far from the Kalinzu forest reserve.
The kalinzu forest reserve is a befitting area to partake in a nature walk with views of rivers, waterfalls and wildlife.
