BIGODI SWAMP
Bigodi Swamp : One of the swamps in the pearl of Africa rich in biodiversity and scenic beauty, the Bigodi Wetlands Sanctuary is a must visit for any tourist on their voyage to Uganda. The 4.5 kilometer long walk will take you through this important wildlife corridor of Kibale Forest and will take up to 3h. While the walk might sound long, it’s really worth the time because of the dynamic scenaries to view. The Bigodi is a paradise for bird watchers. Actually skilled birders can spot up to fifty new species on a bird list. Today, 138 species of bird have been recognized within the Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary. This wonderful place shelters over 200 species of birds including Hornbills, Turacos, Parrots, Cranes, Kingfishers and many more swamp endemics. Among the major bird species within the sanctuary is the grand Blue Turaco. Known to be the “Home of the Great Blue Turaco”.
Furthermore, the sanctuary is the home of 8 species of primates, including the Black and White Colobus, Red Colobus, Red Tailed Monkey, Grey Cheeked Mangabey, Olive Baboon, L’hoest Monkey, Vervet Monkey and the Blue Monkey.
The swamp is also a haven for other mammals such as sitatungas, bushbucks and otters. Local and knowledgeable guides will take you on an interpretive tour as they escort you through the lush vegetation. This is the perfect opportunity to view the wildlife from the forest pathways, boardwalks and atop a tree house tucked high in the canopy.
The Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary is a great example of a community-based approach to the natural resources management which can be of good economic benefit to the different local residents living within this area plus the Uganda safaris industry as well.
Visitors may tour the wetlands only when accompanied by a trained Sanctuary guide. The office is open everyday from 7:30 AM to 5:00 PM. The best times to start the walk , which takes up to 3 hours, are 7:30-9 AM or 3 PM. However, visitors are free to enjoy the walk whenever they like.
The Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary is a great example of a community-based approach to the natural resources management which can be of good economic benefit to the different local residents living within this area plus the region as well.
A community walk is also recommended after visiting Bigodi Swamp. The walk will take up to 3 to 4 hours depending on the pace of the group. According to ones fascination, one may first visit a traditional healer who will happily share his knowledge about spirits, herbs, plants and local medicines. Secondly, the visitors will visit the homes of elderly men and women who tell interesting stories about birth, marriage, ceremonies, clans and their traditional life. Learn more about the history and issues that they face as a developing community of rural Uganda. Along the way, you will also be given the chance to experience the Ugandan school system, visit a local church and Bigodi’s trading centre, a hub of rural life and activity. The field-guides are ready to answer any questions during the walk.
There is great and amazing accommodation, the places to harbor provide a great amazing scenic views that are worth remembering to any tourist.
One can glimpse at wildlife, nature and prominent physical features. There are plenty of accommodation facilities to fit all occasions from bandas, campsites, lodges and hotels with some within and others outside the forest. The places include Rwenzori Guest house, Nyankuru nature reserve and community campsite, nyabulitwa country resort and safari camp, chimps net, Chimpazee forest guest house, Kibale forest camp, Mountains of the moon hotel, Ndali Kasenda and Primate Lodge. All these places have different charges and it depends on the tourist’s budget.
