Kibale National Park, a 795-square-kilometer rainforest in western Uganda near Fort Portal, is famed for its 1,500+ chimpanzees and lush biodiversity. Located at 1,100–1,590 meters above sea level, this primate haven is accessible by road or air from Kampala, Entebbe, or Kigali. Here’s how to get to its heart at Kanyanchu Visitor Centre.
By Road from Kampala or Entebbe
The most common route starts in Kampala or Entebbe, 320 kilometers (200 miles) away, taking 5–6 hours via the Kampala to Mubende to Fort Portal road. This paved highway winds through tea plantations and rolling hills, with a final 36-kilometer stretch from Fort Portal to Kanyanchu on a mix of tarmac and gravel. A 4×4 vehicle is ideal, especially in rainy seasons (March to May, September to November) when tracks can turn muddy. Public buses from Kampala to Fort Portal (5 hours) connect to taxis or lodge transfers for the last leg.
By Road from Kigali, Rwanda
A scenic alternative begins in Kigali, 350 kilometers (217 miles) away, taking 6–7 hours via the Katuna border crossing. After entering Uganda near Kabale, head northwest to Fort Portal, then Kibale. Roads are mostly paved, but a 4×4 helps for the final stretch. Ensure your visa and yellow fever certificate, National ID, EAC Passport care ready for border checks.
By Air
For speed, fly from Entebbe International Airport (EBB) to Kasese Airstrip (1 to 1.5 hours, one way) with Aerolink Uganda. From Kasese, a 2-hour drive (90 kilometers) reaches Kanyanchu, lodge transfers are common. Flights depart daily, typically at 7:00 AM or 12:45 PM. Book early via operators or the Uganda Wildlife Authority.
Travel Tips
Dry seasons (June to August, December to February) offer smoother roads and airstrip access, though travel works year-round. Fuel up in Kampala or Fort Portal options near Kibale are scarce.