Kibale National Park, a 795 square kilometer rainforest in western Uganda near Fort Portal, is a primate haven with over 1,500 chimpanzees. Perched at 1,100 to 1,590 meters above sea level, this lush sanctuary is a top spot for chimp trekking. While driving from Kampala takes 5–6 hours, flying offers a fast, scenic route, landing you near its core at Kanyanchu Visitor Centre in under two hours. Here’s how to take flight.
Flight Options
Flights depart from Entebbe International Airport (EBB), 46 kilometers from Kampala, or Kajjansi Airfield nearby. Aerolink Uganda and bar Aviation operate scheduled flights to Kasese Airstrip, the closest landing point, 90 kilometers (56 miles) from Kibale. The 1–1.5 hour flight, one way, with daily departures typically at 7:00 AM or 12:45 PM, landing by 8:30 AM or 2:15 PM. Charters from Kajjansi offer custom timing for flexibility.
From Airstrip to Park
From Kasese, a 2-hour drive (90 kilometers) via Fort Portal reaches Kanyanchu. The route blends paved roads with a final gravel stretch, lodge transfers or hired 4x4s handle this leg, ideal in rainy seasons (March–May, September–November) when tracks get muddy. The drive offers glimpses of tea estates and Rwenzori Mountain foothills, easing you into Kibale’s wild embrace.
Why Fly?
Flying slashes, the 320-kilometer road trip from Kampala to a quick hop, saving time for your chimp trek or forest walks. Aerial views of Uganda’s green heart and crater lakes add a thrilling bonus.
Plan Your Flight
Book 3–6 months ahead via the Uganda Wildlife Authority or operators, especially for dry seasons (June to August, December to February), when weather favors flying and trails are firm. Pack light (15 kg limit), wear a hat, and confirm transfers flights don’t land directly in Kibale, so the Kasese drive is key. Flying to Kibale National Park blends speed with splendor secure your seat for a rainforest adventure today.