Bigodi Swamps in Kibale National Park

Bigodi Swamps in Kibale National Park : The Bigodi Swamps are a fascinating wetland area located in the southwestern part of Kibale National Park, Uganda, near the town of Bigodi. The swamps cover an area of approximately 8 square kilometers (3.1 square miles). The Bigodi Swamps are located near the town of Bigodi, which is about 30 kilometers (18.6 miles) from the Kibale National Park headquarters. The swamps are a mix of wetland and forest habitats, with dense papyrus, reeds, and other aquatic vegetation.

The Bigodi Swamps are home to several primate species, including chimpanzees, black-and-white colobus monkeys, and red-tailed monkeys. The swamps are a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 200 species of birds recorded, including the rare and endangered shoebill stork. The swamps are also home to other wildlife, such as otters, mongooses, and bushbucks.

The Bigodi Swamps in Kibale National Park, Uganda, are a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 200 species of birds recorded, some of the birds you might spot in the Bigodi Swamps include:-

Papyrus Endemics

1. Papyrus Gonolek: A rare and endangered bird species found only in papyrus swamps.
2. Papyrus Yellow Warbler: A bright yellow bird with a distinctive song.
3. White-winged Warbler: A small, energetic bird with a distinctive white wing patch.

Waterbirds

1. Shoebill Stork: A rare and iconic bird species found in the Bigodi Swamps.
2. African Fish Eagle: A large, powerful bird of prey that feeds on fish.
3. Grey Heron: A common waterbird found in the swamps.
4. Purple Heron: A large, elegant heron with a distinctive purple plumage.

Forest Birds

1. Red-winged Francolin: A colorful bird with a distinctive red wing patch.
2. Crested Guineafowl: A large, ground-dwelling bird with a distinctive crest.
3. Blue-breasted Kingfisher: A brightly colored kingfisher with a distinctive blue breast.

Other Birds

1. Hadada Ibis: A common bird with a distinctive call.
2. African Grey Parrot: A colorful parrot found in the swamps.
3. White-throated Bee-eater: A brightly colored bee-eater with a distinctive white throat patch.

The swamps are a birdwatcher’s paradise, and guided birdwatching tours are available to help you spot these amazing birds.

Other top activities to do in the Bigodi Swamps include:-

Guided Nature Walks

1. Explore the swamps with a knowledgeable guide, spotting birds, monkeys, and other wildlife.
2. Learn about the unique ecosystem and vegetation of the swamps.

Community Visits

1. Visit the local community to learn about their traditional way of life and how they interact with the swamps.
2. Support local community development projects and purchase handicrafts.

Canoeing

1. Take a canoe ride through the swamps to explore the waterways and spot wildlife.
2. Get up close to birds, monkeys, and other wildlife in their natural habitat.

   

Nature and Wildlife Photography

1. Bring your camera and capture stunning photos of the swamps’ unique landscape and wildlife.
2. Take photos of birds, monkeys, and other wildlife in their natural habitat.

The most safari activities in the bigodi swamps is bird watching so you can go birdwatching with a guide to spot some of the rare and endemic species. Take a guided nature walk through the swamps to spot wildlife and learn about the unique ecosystem. Visit the local community to learn about their traditional way of life and how they interact with the swamps. Take a canoe ride through the swamps to explore the waterways and spot wildlife.

There are several accommodation options in the area, ranging from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury lodges. The best time to visit the Bigodi Swamps is during the dry season, from June to August and December to February. The big bounus with visiting the Bigodi swamps is that fact that you get to enjoy the Kibale National Park too.