Discover the Serenity of Budongo Central Forest Reserve
Experience the lush landscapes and rich biodiversity of Budongo Central Forest Reserve, a must-visit natural sanctuary in Uganda.
Budongo Central Forest Reserve is a lush paradise in Uganda, renowned for its diverse flora and fauna. Ideal for nature lovers, it offers breathtaking sights, unique wildlife, and a tranquil escape from the bustle of city life.
A brief summary to Budongo Central Forest Reserve
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning for the best chances to see chimpanzees and other wildlife.
- Wear sturdy hiking boots and bring plenty of water, as trails can be rugged.
- Consider hiring a local guide for an enriched experience and better wildlife spotting.
- Don’t forget your binoculars for birdwatching; the variety is incredible!
- Respect the wildlife and maintain a safe distance to ensure both your safety and theirs.
Getting There
-
Car
If you are driving from Arua, take the Arua-Gulu Road (A1) heading southeast. After approximately 130 km, you will reach the junction for the Masindi Road. Turn left onto the Masindi Road (A9) and continue for about 55 km. Look for signs indicating Budongo Central Forest Reserve. The entrance to the reserve is located about 4 km off the main road. Ensure you have a map or GPS device as some signs may be limited.
-
Public Transportation
From Arua, take a shared taxi or bus heading to Gulu. Once you reach Gulu, you will need to switch to another taxi or bus heading towards Masindi. Upon arriving in Masindi, look for local taxis going to Budongo Central Forest Reserve. The final leg of the journey will require a short motorcycle taxi ride from the main road to the entrance of the forest reserve. Make sure to confirm the fare before starting the ride.
-
Motorcycle Taxi (Boda Boda)
Once you arrive at the nearest road junction to Budongo Central Forest Reserve, you can hire a motorcycle taxi (Boda Boda) to take you the last 4 km into the reserve. It's advisable to negotiate the fare beforehand, which should typically range from 10,000 to 20,000 UGX depending on your starting point and the negotiation skills.
Discover more about Budongo Central Forest Reserve
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Nyakabingo
32.0 km
Explore the pristine beauty of Nyakabingo Wetlands, a serene escape into nature's vibrant ecosystem in Uganda.
Murchison Falls safari
36.9 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Murchison Falls National Park with guided safaris, stunning wildlife encounters, and unforgettable landscapes.
3 Days Murchison Falls Safari Uganda
41.4 km
Unveil the magic of Uganda's Murchison Falls with a captivating 3-day safari adventure, exploring majestic landscapes and vibrant wildlife.
Mparo Tombs, Bunyoro Kingdom
44.8 km
Discover the rich royal heritage of the Bunyoro Kingdom at the Mparo Tombs, a historic site steeped in culture and tradition in Uganda.
Boomu Women's Group
46.5 km
Discover the vibrant culture of Uganda at Boomu Women's Group, where local women showcase their crafts and culinary delights in a welcoming community setting.
Bunyoro Kitara Kingdom
48.0 km
Explore the Bunyoro Kitara Kingdom in Hoima, Uganda, a cultural gem rich in history and tradition, perfect for an unforgettable travel experience.
2 Days Murchison Falls Safari
50.7 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Murchison Falls National Park with a thrilling 2-day safari experience, featuring stunning wildlife and spectacular landscapes.
Murchison Falls Bamboo Village
51.7 km
Experience the beauty of Uganda at Murchison Falls Bamboo Village, your ultimate retreat near Murchison Falls National Park.
Chobe Safari Lodge
79.1 km
Discover luxury and adventure at Chobe Safari Lodge, overlooking the Nile River in Uganda's stunning wilderness, perfect for nature lovers and thrill-seekers.
Victoria Nile
86.9 km
Discover the serene beauty of Victoria Nile in Uganda, a majestic river offering breathtaking views, wildlife encounters, and unforgettable experiences in nature.
Adag Lango cultural site
88.8 km
Explore the spiritual heart of Uganda at Adag Lango Cultural Site, a serene shrine in Karuma Village rich in tradition and cultural significance.
rangotengetenge
93.0 km
Experience the cultural heartbeat of the region at Rangotengetenge, a vibrant entertainment agency offering unique activities and events for every traveler.
Kajagyi Falls Gorilla Tours
93.0 km
Experience the thrill of gorilla trekking and immerse yourself in the stunning beauty of Uganda with Kajagyi Falls Gorilla Tours.
Unmissable attractions to see
Busingiro Tourist Site
15.2 km
Discover the stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage at Busingiro Tourist Site, a hidden gem for travelers in Uganda.
Murchison Falls National Park - Kichubanyobo entrance gate
15.6 km
Explore the breathtaking Murchison Falls National Park, home to stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and unforgettable adventures amidst nature's beauty.
Masindi Hotel
18.6 km
Discover the charm of Masindi Hotel, a historic landmark offering comfortable stays and easy access to Uganda's natural wonders.
Friendly wilderness
18.7 km
Explore Masindi, Uganda: A charming town rich in culture and surrounded by stunning natural beauty, perfect for adventurous travelers.
murchisonfallsuganda
18.8 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda's largest national park, rich in wildlife and stunning landscapes.
Murchison falls national park
18.8 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich wildlife of Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda's natural wonder with stunning waterfalls and diverse fauna.
Scenic View Point Buliisa
22.2 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Buliisa Scenic View Point, a serene escape in Uganda's stunning landscapes, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
SOURCE OF WHITE NILE
40.3 km
Discover the breathtaking Source of the White Nile in Uganda, where natural beauty meets historical significance.
Kabalega Resort - Hoima
44.0 km
Discover the serene beauty and rich cultural heritage at Kabalega Resort, your perfect getaway in Hoima, Uganda.
Murchison Falls National Park, Bugungu Gate
45.6 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty and rich wildlife of Murchison Falls National Park, a top destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers in Uganda.
Katasiiha Fort
47.1 km
Explore Katasiiha Fort, a historical landmark in Hoima, Uganda, showcasing the rich heritage and stunning views of the past.
Karuzika
48.0 km
Explore the historical grandeur of Karuzika, the Bunyoro Kingdom Palace, where rich heritage and culture await every traveler.
St. Peter's Cathedral, Church of Uganda
48.4 km
Discover the spiritual and architectural beauty of St. Peter's Cathedral, an Anglican masterpiece nestled in the vibrant city of Hoima, Uganda.
Elephant Points (Kiryandongo)
52.5 km
Experience the beauty of nature and witness majestic elephants in their natural habitat at Elephant Points, Kiryandongo, Uganda.
Red Chilli Rest Camp
53.8 km
Discover the beauty of Murchison Falls at Red Chilli Rest Camp, where adventure meets comfort in Uganda's stunning wilderness.
Essential places to dine
Karibuni Restaurant
47.7 km
Discover authentic Ugandan cuisine at Karibuni Restaurant in Rusaka Village - where every meal tells a story.
Trudys Diner
47.8 km
Discover authentic Ugandan cuisine at Trudy's Diner in Hoima – where local flavors meet international charm.
Buswekera Trading Centre
54.9 km
Explore the vibrant culinary scene at Buswekera Trading Centre - where authentic Ugandan grilled dishes meet lively community spirit.
CAFE Marlette
79.3 km
Discover delicious fast food at CAFE Marlette in Kyamukonda - a perfect stop for travelers on Kampala-Gulu Highway.
murchisson falls cafe
86.8 km
Discover local flavors at Murchisson Falls Cafe near Uganda's majestic waterfalls - a must-visit culinary gem for every traveler.
KHALIE& RESTAURANT
91.5 km
Discover authentic Ugandan flavors at Khalie Restaurant in Nalakonge, where every dish tells a story.
Girays Pizzeria
91.5 km
Experience authentic Northern Italian cuisine at Girays Pizzeria in Nalakonge - where every pizza tells a story!
John Okecho
91.5 km
Experience authentic American cuisine at John Okecho in Nalakonge – where every meal feels like home.
Plan B pork joint bar and lounge,grill
91.8 km
Experience mouthwatering grilled dishes at Plan B Pork Joint Bar and Lounge in Jokolera - a culinary hotspot for food enthusiasts.
Hajat's hotel
93.1 km
Experience authentic Ugandan flavors at Hajat's Hotel in Nyawiega, where culinary tradition meets warm hospitality.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Craft shop.... By NEKA company
15.6 km
Explore the NEKA Craft Shop in Kibamba for authentic Ugandan crafts and handcrafted treasures that reflect the region's rich cultural heritage.
Kinyara main Store
17.5 km
Explore Kinyara Main Store, the heart of sugar production in Western Uganda, offering local goods and cultural insights.
Shree Naranarayan Africa Ltd
18.0 km
Unearth hidden treasures at Shree Naranarayan Africa Ltd, a charming second-hand store in Masindi, where unique finds await every traveler.
Katende General Merchandise Shop
18.8 km
Explore the vibrant local culture at Katende General Merchandise Shop in Matugga, where shopping meets community spirit.
MTN Service Center
19.5 km
Explore Masindi with ease by connecting to the world at MTN Service Center, your reliable electronics store in Uganda.
Emma links
19.8 km
Emma Links in Masindi: A premier supermarket offering local goods and essentials for a seamless travel experience.
Karibuni Supermarket
19.8 km
Explore local flavors and vibrant Ugandan culture at Karibuni Supermarket in Masindi, your go-to grocery store for fresh produce and unique snacks.
Prime hardware
32.8 km
Discover Prime Hardware in Kyatiri – your trusted source for tools and materials to make every project a success.
Aunt Sarah's Boutique
47.5 km
Discover unique women's fashion at Aunt Sarah's Boutique in Kampala, where contemporary style meets authentic Ugandan craftsmanship.
KPTL Kigumba Stores
49.4 km
Explore KPTL Kigumba Stores for a unique shopping experience filled with local home goods and craftsmanship that embodies Ugandan culture.
Murchison River Lodge
51.5 km
Discover the serene beauty and adventure at Murchison River Lodge, your gateway to the Nile and Murchison Falls National Park.
Kafu River Junction
58.0 km
Explore the vibrant Kafu River Junction Market in Kampala, Uganda, a hub of culture, crafts, and culinary delights.
Kabalega Diner Limited
63.2 km
Experience the flavors of Uganda at Kabalega Diner, a charming restaurant offering delightful breakfast and lunch options in Nakitoma.
Zande prince collections
64.2 km
Discover the vibrant world of Ugandan fashion at Zande Prince Collections, where tradition meets contemporary style.
JOY BOOK CENTER
64.5 km
Explore JOY BOOK CENTER in Bweyale, Uganda, a delightful stationery store offering a diverse range of products for all your creative and organizational needs.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
SPOTS HUNTERS
16.5 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at SPOTS HUNTERS in Biso - a top bar with cold drinks and cool vibes.
Happy Life Jevis Pub
17.9 km
Discover the lively charm of Happy Life Jevis Pub in Masindi, Uganda, where great drinks and friendly vibes await every visitor.
Kash Bar
18.0 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Kash Bar in Masindi, where local flavors and friendly vibes await you.
ERIABU DEPOT, BAR AND LODGE
18.9 km
Unwind at Eriabu Depot, Bar and Lodge, where local culture meets vibrant nightlife in the heart of Masindi.
D9 Bar and Grill
19.6 km
Discover the vibrant flavors and lively nightlife at D9 Bar and Grill in Masindi, Uganda, where every meal is a celebration of local cuisine.
Slec Club
19.8 km
Experience the flavors of Uganda at Slec Club, Masindi's premier grill restaurant offering delicious local dishes in a vibrant atmosphere.
Volcano Discotheque Bar & Restaurant
20.1 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife and delicious grill cuisine at Volcano Discotheque Bar & Restaurant in Masindi, a hub for food and fun.
Kabarwana drinking pub
20.8 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Kabarwana Drinking Pub in Masindi, where local culture and refreshing drinks come together for an unforgettable experience.
Vibers Pub
35.7 km
Vibers Pub: A lively bar in Kigorobya, perfect for enjoying local drinks and vibrant social interactions.
Fishmen's Bar
45.0 km
Discover the tranquil charm of Fishmen's Bar in Sambiya Village, where relaxation meets local culture by the serene Sambiya River.
Sambiya River Lodge's Dining
45.0 km
Experience authentic Ugandan cuisine at Sambiya River Lodge's Dining, where each meal is a celebration of local flavors and natural beauty.
DE CORNER BAR AND GRILL
47.4 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Uganda at De Corner Bar and Grill in Bulisa, where every meal is a celebration of local culture and culinary delight.
Call In Bar and Restaurant
47.7 km
Discover the lively ambiance and diverse cuisine at Call In Bar and Restaurant in Hoima, Uganda, perfect for unwinding and socializing.
R&J QUALITY FOODS& BAR
47.9 km
Discover the lively ambiance and local flavors at R&J Quality Foods & Bar in Wanseko, where every visit promises great drinks and unforgettable experiences.
ARROWS BAR & RESTAURANT
48.0 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife and delicious local cuisine at Arrows Bar & Restaurant in Hoima, a favorite spot for both locals and tourists.