When to visit, how to access and where to stay at semuliki bational park.
Semuliki National Park is a hidden gem that offers a unique blend of wildlife, culture, and natural wonders.
Whether you’re marveling at the boiling hot springs, trekking through dense forests, or enjoying a night safari, the park provides unforgettable experiences for adventurers and nature lovers alike.
By planning your visit during the dry season, choosing the right accommodation, you’re sure to have an amazing safari adventure at Semuliki National Park.
When to Visit Semuliki National Park
The best time to visit Semuliki National Park is during the dry seasons, which occur from December to February and June to September.
These months offer the most favorable conditions for wildlife viewing, nature walks and visiting the Sempaya hot springs, as the trails are dry and easy to navigate.
During the wet seasons (March to May and October to November), heavy rains can make some roads and trails muddy and difficult to traverse, but the forest is lush and birdwatching is particularly rewarding during these times due to migratory species.
How to Access Semuliki National Park
Semuliki National Park is located in western Uganda, near the town of Fort Portal. Here’s how you can access the park:
By Road:
- From Kampala
The park is approximately 6-7 hours (around 340 kilometers) from Kampala.
The most popular route is through Fort Portal, which is a scenic drive with views of the Rwenzori Mountains and tea plantations.
The road from Fort Portal to Semuliki (about 2 hours) is partly rough but accessible with a 4×4 vehicle.
- From Queen Elizabeth National Park
If you’re combining Semuliki with a visit to Queen Elizabeth National Park, it’s a shorter drive of around 3 hours.
By Air:
- For a quicker and more comfortable option, visitors can take a domestic flight from Entebbe International Airport to Kasese Airstrip or Semuliki Airstrip.
From there, it’s a short drive to the park.
Where to Stay: Accommodation Options
Semuliki National Park offers a variety of accommodation options ranging from budget campsites to luxury lodges, catering to different preferences and budgets.
Luxury Accommodations
- Semuliki Safari Lodge
- Location: Inside the park, with stunning views of the savanna.
- Amenities: Spacious tents with en-suite bathrooms, a swimming pool, private verandas, gourmet dining and guided game drives.
- Best For: Those seeking luxury, exclusivity, and immersive wildlife experiences in the heart of the park.
- Kyaninga Lodge (Fort Portal)
- Location: Near Fort Portal, about 1.5 hours from the park.
- Amenities: Luxury cottages, private balconies with lake views, fine dining, nature walks, and access to Kyaninga Crater Lake.
- Best For: Travelers looking for a luxurious retreat with proximity to Semuliki and other attractions in the region.
Mid-range Accommodations
- Ntoroko Game Lodge
- Location: Along the shores of Lake Albert, just outside the park.
- Amenities: Comfortable safari tents, restaurant, bar, boat trips on Lake Albert, and guided nature walk.
- Best For: Mid-range travelers who want a unique lakeside experience with easy access to the park.
- Mountains of the Moon Hotel (Fort Portal)
- Location: Fort Portal, about 1.5 hours from the park.
- Amenities: Comfortable rooms, a swimming pool, restaurant, and scenic gardens.
- Best For: Mid-range travelers who prefer staying in Fort Portal while exploring the park and surrounding areas.
Budget Accommodations
- Kirumia Guesthouse
- Location: Near the Kirumia Trailhead, close to the park entrance.
- Amenities: Basic accommodations with clean rooms, self-catering facilities, and proximity to the park.
- Best For: Backpackers and budget-conscious travelers who want to stay near the park.
- Rwenzori View Guesthouse (Fort Portal)
- Location: In Fort Portal, about 1.5 hours from Semuliki.
- Amenities: Affordable rooms, basic amenities, and scenic views of the Rwenzori Mountains.
- Best For: Budget travelers who want affordable accommodation near Fort Portal with easy access to Semuliki.
- UWA Campsites (Sempaya Hot Springs)
- Location: Inside the park, near the hot springs.
- Amenities: Basic camping facilities with access to water, pit latrines, and a scenic location.
- Best For: Adventurers who enjoy camping in nature and want a budget-friendly, immersive park experience.
