Kigezi wildlife reserve lies in the Rukungiri area of southern Uganda, south of Queen Elizabeth National Park. The reserve, which is located on the western arm of the African rift, was formed in 1952 and encompasses an estimated 265 square kilometres of land area. At an elevation of around 1,050m, the reserve’s topography supports the survival of several animal species that move freely inside the reserve’s woods, forests, and grasslands. Some of the species migrate between the reserve and the Queen Elizabeth National Park, as well as the Rwindi Plains in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. While there is no zonation within the reserve, it serves as a buffer zone between Queen Elizabeth National Park, other populous regions, and the Rwenzori Mountains to the north.

The reserve is located inside the Kigezi sub-region, which has been termed the “Switzerland of Uganda.” It was given this name because of its chilly and stunning steep terrain.

 

Wildlife at kigezi wildlife reserve

fauna

Kigezi is home to a diverse range of vegetation and wildlife. There are several mammalian species caught up in the hunt-and-hide framework. Lions, leopards, warthogs, Uganda kobs, buffalos, hippos, giant forest hog, bushbuck, waterbuck, oribi, and topi are among them. Importantly, the area is also regarded as a haven for enormous elephant populations.

Other animal species found in the reserve include primates such as the eastern black and white colobus, red colobus, and chimps. There are also several bird species. Among these are the Verreaux’s Eagle Owl, Red-faced Barbets, Peregrine Falcon, Saddle-billed stork, Hammerkop, Marabou storks, and Grey-crowned cranes.

Flora

The reserve’s vegetation is comparable to that seen in Queen Elizabeth National Park. There is a savannah with acacia and albizia that is complemented by wet deciduous woods and other tree species. The grass and shrubs are likewise varied in shape and kind. Cymbopogon, Hyparrhenia, Imperata, and Beckeropsis are among the grass species.

 

How to get to kigezi wildlife reserve

The Kigezi Wildlife Reserve lies near Rukungiri, some 318 kilometers (198 miles) from Kampala. The most popular route is the Kampala-Mbarara highway, which takes you to Ntungamo and subsequently to Rukungiri.

 

Where to stay at kigezi wildlife reserve

There are presently no lodging options within the reserve. However, the surrounding areas have various hotels and lodges that adventurous explorers might utilize during their visit.

Best time to visit kigezi wildlife reserve

The Kigezi Wildlife Reserve is an all-year-round destination. Those interested in witnessing the animal migrations should do so during the rainy seasons of October to November and March to April. Normal animal watching is possible throughout the year, although it is greatest during the dry seasons.

 

The Kigezi hills, woodlands, and the many structures around town are among the intriguing things to see on a Kigezi safari.