Rubanga Forest is excellently nestled in the second smallest national park in western Uganda, that is Lake Mburo National Park. This is approximately 240 kilometers from Kampala, the capital city of Uganda, in about 4 hour’s drive.
Rubanga forest is a tropical rainforest that hosts over 40 bird species, that’s why it is usually referred to as a paradise for birders. Such bird species include the green pigeon, harrier hawk, double-toothed barbet, shoebill stork, narina trogon, and the grey-backed cameroptera.
The forest is an ideal place for nature walks because it also harbours different tree species. These include; palm trees, acacia, gigs, and Platycaluz Markhamia, among others.
Major Activities in Rubanga Forest
Bird watching
One of the bird species to spot while bird watching in Rubanga Forest – Lake Mburo National Park
Bird watching is the icon activity that is mostly done in the wet season. During this season, Uganda tends to have much rain throughout the country. However, this does not mean that Uganda is completely off-limits. There will be plenty of opportunities to spot rear bird species within the forest.
The vegetation will create stunning backdrops for photography and sometimes wildlife tends to be difficult to see but all this makes an adventure an unforgettable experience. The long rains of March and April continue into May, so this period is considered to be the best time for the birders.
November sees the start of the best bird-watching season (November-April) because migratory birds are arriving in Uganda. Rubanga forest is known for over 40 bird species, so if this is something that you are particularly interested in, please do tell your guides and they will be able to point out some unique species.
Nature walks
Enjoy a fascinating nature walking safari in Rubanga Forest, to give you a feel of the cool breeze of nature. This is possible as you pass through the thick forest, which exposes you to different plant species that include tree species and medicinal plants. Don’t miss out on various butterfly species, a bird-watching experience, and beautiful sceneries among others.
Rubanga forest is found within Lake Mburo National Park, so it gives you chance to engage in other different thrilling tourist activities within the park. These include a game viewing safari, a boat cruise on Lake Mburo, guided nature walks to see the salt-licking animal experience, a unique horse riding tour to view wildlife, sport fishing, cultural and community tours, a bicycle tour, and a visit to Igongo Cultural Centre.
It’s quietly easier for visitors who visit Lake Mburo National Park to tie up with other national parks especially those found in southwestern Uganda. So, you can continue to Mgahinga Gorilla National Park for an amazing gorilla trekking safari, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, and Queen Elizabeth National Park among others.