Maramagambo forest nature walks are an incredible experience that takes place in Maramagambo forest. This is in the Bushenyi district, part of Queen Elizabeth National Park, in western Uganda.
The forest is home to chimpanzees, elephants, bush pigs, pythons, bats, and the rare Bates’ pygmy antelopes and among other wildlife species. .
Maramagambo forest nature walks give you a different feel of meeting the wild with different species. Don’t miss primates such as vervet, colobus, L’Hoest’s, red-tailed and blue monkeys. Not forgetting olive baboons, and chimpanzees. There are nocturnal primates like bush babies and pottos too, which can also be sighed during night walks.
Chimpanzees in Maramagambo forest are not open to tourism because they are not habituated. So, Maramagambo forest nature walks cannot make a chimpanzee tracking possible on a daily basis.
Chimps are very mobile, so they cannot stay in one area for too long. It would imply following them into this vast forest with a little chance of success. However, visitors spot theses chimps frequently during their Maramagambo forest nature walks. Other attractions include birdlife, and bat caves.
Besides being blessed with great biodiversity, unique attractions, and activities, Maramagambo forest is one of the less-visited attractions in Queen Elizabeth National Park. Many visitors prefer visiting Kyambura gorge which is closer to the park offices, for chimpanzee tracking and nature walks. However, visiting Maramagambo forest is an excellent choice for those who wish to visit a less crowded place.
Best Time For Maramagambo Forest Nature Walks
Maramagambo forest is open to visitors all year round, however, the best time to do different activities is during the dry seasons. These are usually from December to February and from June to mid-September, thus making Maramagambo forest nature walks enjoyable within the forest.
Conditions in forest are more difficult during the rainy seasons; March to May and September to November. This is because the forest trails become muddy or slippery whic makes them almost impassable, or difficult to pass through. Besides, being muddy and difficult to pass through, is sometimes part of an experience to travelers.
The rainy season is ideal for those who are interested in bird watching. This is because it’s the breeding season, so the forest is full of beautiful sounds of both resident and migratory birds. At this time of the year, the forests are filled with fresh fruits and food for birds and other forest creatures.
Visitors are few in the forest during rainy seasons so you can have all the privacy to explore the forest which is not possible when there are crowds.
Apart from Maramagambo forest nature walks, Uganda is blessed with other forests that are endowed with unique species and activities. Don’t miss Mabira forest, Budongo forest in Murchison Falls National Park, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, and Kibale Forest National Park where chimpanzee safaris in Uganda can also be done. All these give you a unique experience.