Semuliki National Park offers a diverse range of activities for visitors, including forest walks, bird watching, primate tracking, hot spring visits, hiking, and game drives. A cultural visit to the local tribes outside the park provides a well-rounded safari experience.
Visiting the Semuliki River
The park is named after the Semuliki River, which stretches 160 kilometers and supplies water to the Nile River. This muddy forest river is home to crocodiles, hippos, and hundreds of bird species. Visitors can enjoy scenic walks along the river as it meanders through forests and the Rift Valley floor.
Visiting the Sempaya Hot Springs
The Sempaya Hot Springs are among the most famous attractions in the park. Visitors are fascinated by both the local folklore and the scientific explanations behind their formation.
- The Male Hot Spring, known as Bintente, has a diameter of 12 meters.
- The Female Hot Spring, called Nyasimbi, is a boiling geyser that shoots bubbling water and steam several meters high, visible from over a kilometer away.
Tourists can boil eggs in the hot water within 10 minutes and enjoy cultural dances organized by local tribes. A boardwalk and observation tower have been built to allow safe viewing.
Bird Watching
Semuliki National Park is one of Uganda’s best birding destinations, home to half of the bird species found in the Democratic Republic of Congo due to its extension from the Ituri Forest.
Birdwatching can be done in the forest, around the Sempaya Hot Springs, or behind the ranger post. Visitors may spot species such as:
- African Dwarf Kingfishers
- African Piculet
- Bates’ Nightjar
- Black Dwarf Hornbill
- Black-collared Lovebird
- Ayres Hawk-Eagle
- Buff-spotted Flufftail (heard at night)
Forest and Nature Walks
Exploring Semuliki’s dense forests allows visitors to see lush vegetation, butterflies, birds, and primates. The park has three established walking trails:
- Sempaya Nature Trail (8 km) – leading to the hot springs.
- Red Monkey Track (11 km) – ideal for spotting Red Colobus monkeys.
- Kirumia Hiking Trail (13 km) – perfect for bird watchers and nature lovers.
Hikers should carry machetes for clearing vegetation and those interested in camping should bring their own equipment.
Chimpanzee Tracking
With research efforts from Indiana University, some chimpanzee clans have been habituated for tourism.
- Chimpanzee tracking permits cost $30 for international visitors.
- Other primates to spot include Black and White Colobus Monkeys, Red Colobus, Mona Monkeys, Olive Baboons, and Red-tailed Monkeys.
Visitors should come prepared with protective clothing, insect repellent, drinking water, and snacks.
Cultural Visits and Experiences
Semuliki National Park is surrounded by four indigenous tribes, each with a unique way of life:
- Batwa Pygmies – Former hunter-gatherers, now showcasing their culture through dance, storytelling, and demonstrations.
- Bakonjo & Bamba – Farmers who grow bananas, rice, potatoes, and cocoa.
- Batuku – Pastoralists residing in the northern part of the park.
With support from the Uganda Wildlife Authority, the Batwa share their traditions with tourists, offering insight into their rich cultural heritage.
Semuliki National Park is a hidden gem filled with natural wonders, thrilling wildlife encounters, and deep cultural heritage, making it an essential destination for travelers in Uganda.
