On the edge of Kibale Forest, the community-run Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary protects Magombe Swamp — a rich papyrus wetland that has become one of Uganda's most rewarding birding walks, and a model for how tourism revenue can stay directly in the hands of the community that manages it.
Tooro's Community Birding Trail
Bigodi is entirely community-owned and managed, with proceeds from guided walks funding local schools, a health clinic, and other village projects. The swamp itself holds over 200 recorded bird species, including the striking great blue turaco, alongside eight primate species — making it a rewarding stop even outside the core chimp-trekking season in nearby Kibale.
What to See & Do
Guided walks follow raised boardwalks and forest paths through the papyrus swamp, with trained local guides skilled at spotting birds and primates in the dense vegetation. Sessions typically run two to three hours and are paced for careful watching and photography rather than covering distance, making it an easy, low-intensity add-on to a Kibale itinerary.
Best Time to Visit
Birding is good year-round, though early mornings offer the most activity. The dry seasons (December-February, June-August) make the boardwalk paths easier underfoot.
Getting There
Bigodi is about 6km from the main Kibale Forest park headquarters at Kanyanchu, making it a natural pairing with a chimpanzee trek — many visitors do both in a single day near Fort Portal.
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