Kalinzu forest is a newly discovered exciting destination in Uganda having beautiful creatures like the Kilyantama waterfalls, river Kajojo, chimpanzees, monkeys, birds, and trees among other species. Due to its strategic location between queen Elizabeth national park and Bwindi impenetrable national park, a visit is a must hence a great adventure
Kalinzu forest reserve is located in the western part of Uganda in Bushenyi district 375km from Kampala. Due to its strategic location, Kalinzu forest reserve can be a stopover on your safari that is 84km a 1hr and 40 minutes drive from queen Elizabeth national park and 152km a 5hr drive to Bwindi impenetrable national park
The park can be accessed through the Kampala Masaka Mbarara route. which is approximately 5 to 6 hours with stopovers
By road transport
One can opt for public means that is bus or taxi that may cost $12 to $13 depending on the season to Butare in the Bushenyi district and then board a motorcycle to Kalinzu forest reserve offices or One can use a private vehicle to the reserve which is more comfortable and private. The vehicles can be got from a variety of tour companies
By air transport, a charter flight can be arranged from Kajjansi airfield or Entebbe airport to Kasese airstrip then drive to Kalinzu forest reserve which is approximately two hours
.
Kalinzu forest reserve can be visited at any time of the year during the wet and dry since each season has an advantage over the other.
During the wet season that is march, April, May, September, October and November, there is plenty of food and fruits in the forest leading to fewer movements of the chimpanzees hence easily cited and also the best experience for bird lovers, there is also privacy, less competition since there are fewer visits.
During the dry season that is June, July, August, September, December, January, and February when the forest receives little amounts of rainfall, the forest trails are passable that is to say not muddy and slippery.
There are no accommodation facilities in Kalinzu forest, but those interested in camping can carry their bedding, food supplies and tents. The main camping site is close to the forest offices ( Nkombe forest station) but has basic facilities, solar-powered showers and Pit latrines. Firewood and Water can be organized at the station or purchased at the nearby trading Centre along the Kasese to Mbarara highway.
those interested in standard accommodation facilities can book lodges in Queen Elizabeth which offer budget, mid-range and Luxury services accordingly. these lodges include Engiri game lodge, Jacana lodge, Katara lodge, Mweya hostels, Mweya safari lodge, Park View Safari Lodge and Queen Elizabeth Pvt lodge.
Visitors should carry waterproof hiking boots, rain jacket, hat, binoculars, sunglasses, drinking water, camera
.