Semuliki National Park – Activities and Attractions
Semuliki National Park is located in western Uganda, bordered by the Rwenzori Mountains. It lies on the floor of the Semuliki Valley, which has a rich history. The valley was submerged under a lake for seven million years. Today, the park is known for its wildlife, hot springs, and cultural diversity, making it a must-visit destination.
The park covers large areas that may flood during the wet season, reminding visitors of its ancient past. Various ethnic groups live in the area, each contributing to its cultural richness. The Bwamba people farm at the base of the Rwenzori Mountains, while the Bakonjo cultivate the slopes. The Batuku people, cattle herders, occupy the plains, and the Batwa pygmies, once hunter-gatherers, live on the forest’s edge.
Semuliki lies in a biologically diverse region, part of the Ituri Forest, one of Africa’s oldest forests. This area hosts Central African wildlife species. The Semuliki River forms an international boundary, resembling the Congo River. The forest is home to diverse wildlife, including primates, elephants, and antelopes. The park boasts over 350 bird species, including 23 Albertine Rift endemics, and more than 300 butterfly species.
Birding in Semuliki National Park
Birdwatching is one of the park’s most popular activities. The birdlife in Semuliki is extraordinary, with a rich variety of species, including the coveted Albertine Rift endemics and other restricted-range birds. For serious birdwatchers, the park is a must-visit destination. The 6km public road between Sempaya and Ntandi provides excellent views into the forest canopy, making it a great place to spot birds. The 14km Kirumia Trail is another key birding route that runs through the heart of the forest and leads to the Semuliki River. While day walks are possible, the trail is most rewarding as an overnight camping trip, offering an immersive birding experience.
Among the many bird species, visitors can find the elusive spot-breasted ibis, Haartlaub’s duck, and Congo serpent eagle. Other notable species include the chestnut-flanked goshawk and the red-thighed sparrowhawk. Rare birds such as the western bronze-naped pigeon and the yellow-throated cuckoo are also spotted in the park, adding to its appeal for birding enthusiasts.
Hot Springs
One of the most famous attractions in Semuliki National Park is the pair of hot springs located near the park office at Sempaya. These hot springs, named ‘male’ and ‘female,’ are the park’s star features. The female spring, called Nyansimbi, which means ‘the female ancestors,’ is a powerful geyser that spurts boiling water and steam up to two meters high. Visitors can even buy eggs from local vendors and cook them in the boiling water pools surrounding the spring. Nyansimbi is located just a 15-minute walk through palm forest from the Sempaya park office, making it easily accessible for most visitors.
The male spring, Bintente, is located about an hour’s walk away from Nyansimbi. Visitors must follow a forest trail and swamp boardwalk to reach it. The spring is a large, steaming pool, approximately 12 meters in diameter, set in a swampy clearing surrounded by forest. The backdrop of the Rwenzori Mountains adds to the spring’s dramatic beauty, making it a popular spot for photos and relaxation.
Nature Walks
For those who enjoy exploring nature, Semuliki offers a variety of short trails around the Sempaya area. These trails are ideal for nature lovers and birdwatchers. Visitors can take guided nature walks to explore the forest and learn about its diverse flora and fauna. Additionally, the park offers night hikes, allowing visitors to observe nocturnal primates and other creatures that are active after dark. These night hikes provide a unique opportunity to witness the park’s wildlife in a different light, with the sounds of the forest adding to the experience.
Game Drives
Semuliki National Park is also known for its exciting game drives. Three game tracks explore the grasslands of Toro-Semuliki, located around Semuliki Safari Lodge. These drives offer visitors a chance to spot a variety of wildlife, including elephants, buffalo, waterbuck, crocodiles, warthogs, and Uganda kob. With some luck, visitors may even spot more elusive animals such as lions, leopards, pygmy hippos, and bushbabies. The game drives provide a great way to explore the park’s savannah and forest ecosystems while enjoying sightings of both common and rare wildlife.
Accommodation
Semuliki National Park offers a variety of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. For those who prefer camping, basic cottages and camping facilities are available at UWA’s Bumaga Camp near Sempaya. Those looking for more comfort can find a wide range of accommodation in Fort Portal, a nearby town. Fort Portal offers numerous lodging options, ranging from mid-range to upscale hotels. Additionally, a small selection of basic hotels can be found in Bundibugyo, located 20km beyond Bumaga Camp.
Access to Semuliki National Park
Reaching Semuliki National Park is relatively easy from Fort Portal. To get to the park, visitors can follow the surfaced Bundibugyo Road for 27km before turning right at Karagutu trading center. From there, a 40km dirt road leads to Ntoroko, passing the reserve headquarters after 1.5km. The turnoff for Semuliki Safari Lodge comes after 25km. The well-marked roads make it convenient for visitors to access the park and begin their adventure into one of Uganda’s most unique and biodiverse regions.