Katonga Wildlife Reserve
Wetlands Trail
Only recently developed for tourism, Katonga Wildlife Reserve protects a network of forest-fringed wetlands along the Katonga River. The reserve covers an area of some 207sq. km and is comprised of papyrus swamps, woodland, acacia scrub, savannah and tropical forest. Various trails have been developed to allow access to Katonga’s ecosystems.
Background
Katonga Wildlife Reserve was established in 1964 as a game reserve. Before the civil unrest of the 1970’s and 80’s it acted as a corridor for migrating wildlife searching for water. Nowadays much of the land is utilized by the nomadic cattle herders who graze large herds of Ankole cattle there.
Attractions Overview
Katonga is reputed to have plentiful wildlife with up to 40 species present including elephant, Black and White Colobus monkeys, bushbuck, warthog, waterbuck, river otter, reedbuck and Sitatunga antelope. The Sitatunga is a semi-aquatic antelope with webbed hooves that forages almost exclusively in swamps. Bird life is also abundant with at least 150 species spotted - many specific to its wetland habitat.
Activities Overview
Katonga is a reserve for exploring on foot as there are no roads or vehicle safaris. The ‘Sitatunga Trail’ traverses savannah and later runs alongside the Katonga river whilst the ‘Kyeibale Trail’ passes rock formations and cave shelters on a circular route. The ‘Kisharara Trail’ probably provides the most variety. The reserve can also be discovered by canal on the 2 km ‘Wetlands Canoe Trail’, whilst more adventurous travellers could organise an overnight trip into the undeveloped wild interior.
Getting there
Located 250 km west of Kampala, with a journey time of approximately 3-4 hours, with access off the Kampala to Fort Portal road. After about 48 km from Mubende at Kyegegwa, a track/unmade road leads south. From the turn off it is 42 km to the reserve headquarters close to the Katonga River (beware that this road is usually impassable in heavy rain unless travelling in a 4WD vehicle). The Reserve can also be reached via Kazo, heading north from Nakaiita off the Kampala to Mbarara road. Private transport is essential for getting to Katonga though buses do connect Kampala to Kabagole, a short canoe ride and walk from the entrance gate.
Wildlife
Katonga Wildlife Reserve is a hidden gem in Uganda, offering a unique and diverse ecosystem for wildlife enthusiasts to explore. Home to a variety of animal species, including elephants, buffalo, hippos, and crocodiles, Katonga provides a rich and rewarding safari experience for visitors. The reserve is also known for its abundant birdlife, with over 200 species of birds inhabiting the area.
Must-see Attractions
Source of the Nile
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Must-do Activities
White Water Rafting
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