Visit Kabwoya Wildlife Reserve, which offers some of the most breathtaking views, if you are ready to explore off the usual path and discover remarkable wildlife and natural experiences between Murchison Falls National Park and Kibale Forest National Park.
Despite being a true hidden gem, this wildlife reserve is often overlooked by tour companies, and not much is known about it. Do not miss the reserve while on safari—you will be amazed to see how untouched such a beautiful place remains.
Covering an area of 87 square miles, Kabwoya Wildlife Reserve is located between Lake Albert and the Blue Mountains of the Congo on the western side of the Albertine Rift Valley.
It features open Savannah plains along Lake Albert, offering breathtaking views of the DRC’s Blue Mountains and the lake. Few people are aware of this wildlife reserve, which was gazetted in 1980 and officially designated as a reserve in 2002.
Kabwoya Wildlife Reserve was once a controlled hunting area and home to many wildlife species, especially in the 1960s. However, due to heavy poaching, the area was severely affected, and cattle herders began using it for grazing, driving away the few remaining wildlife species.
Some of the animals that can be seen in the reserve include buffaloes, primates such as baboons (common along the cliffs), chimpanzees, and vervet monkeys (mostly found along the shores of the Wamababya and Hoywa Rivers).
Antelopes such as Uganda kobs, waterbucks, bushbucks, bush duikers, Jackson’s hartebeests, and impalas also live in the reserve, along with hippos in Lake Albert.
Additionally, Kabwoya Wildlife Reserve is home to over 460 bird species. With its stunning scenery, diverse wildlife, and rich birdlife, this reserve is truly a miniature paradise.
Top Things to Do in Kabwoya Wildlife Reserve
Popular activities at Kabwoya Wildlife Reserve include fishing, horseback riding, fossil hunting, guided nature walks, bird-watching, game drives, and boat trips.
- Fishing: Fishing in Kabwoya Wildlife Reserve takes place on Lake Albert, where visitors can catch Nile perch of various sizes. Motorboat fishing excursions can be arranged for half-day or full-day trips. For safety reasons, no more than three anglers are allowed per boat.
- Fossil Hunting: Fossil hunting is one of the most exciting activities at the reserve, allowing visitors to search for ancient fossils that have existed for many generations.
- Mountain Bike Riding: This activity is perfect for those who want to see wildlife in Kabwoya Wildlife Reserve while also getting some exercise. The reserve’s savannah plains provide excellent bike routes that are easy to navigate.
- Quad Bike Rides: Kabwoya is the only wildlife reserve where quad biking is allowed, giving visitors a unique opportunity to explore the landscape and observe wildlife.
- Bird-watching: Kabwoya Wildlife Reserve is an important birding area, home to over 460 bird species, including Albertine Rift endemic species. Visitors should bring cameras and binoculars for the best bird-watching experience.
- Guided Nature Walks & Hiking: For most visitors, nature walks are a must-do activity at Kabwoya Wildlife Reserve. The guided walks from the Albertine Rift escarpment are especially fascinating, offering amazing views of various antelope species, warthogs, primates, and bird species.
Relted Article: Ajai Wildlife Reserve – Uganda’s Sanctuary for Antelopes, Primates & Birdlife
