A community-based project, Bigodi Wetlands Sanctuary is located in the Magombe swamp on the outskirts of Kibale National Park, which is home to the largest chimpanzee population in Uganda. Preserving Bigodi was primarily done to safeguard the enormous Magombe swamp.
The Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary was formerly referred to as “Magombe,” which is a local term for “the graveyard.” This is a result of numerous individuals who were engulfed by the swamp during the bridge’s construction many years ago.
Bigodi is widely acknowledged as a highly sought-after birding destination in Uganda, offering exceptional opportunities to observe an abundance of striking bird species. Travellers from all over the world, both domestic and foreign, primarily those who are visiting Kibale National Park, flock to this birdwatching destination. The local community is intended to receive a larger portion of the sanctuary’s total revenue because it is integral to the management of this natural resource.
Bigodi As A Hotspot For Birding And Different Bird Species Found There.
In fact, a lot of tourists prefer Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary to Kibale National Park for their birdwatching excursions. This is due to the fact that, in contrast to the impenetrable Kibale, which is dominated by dense and thick forests, Bigodi offers the most stunning views of various bird species.
Bigodi is a must-visit when on a Uganda tour safari and you want to make the most of it. There are 138 different bird species at this well-liked birdwatching location. These bird species and other local wildlife survive in large part because of its rich biodiversity.
The wetland is also home to a number of food-seeking primate species, such as blue and white monkeys, red-tailed monkeys, baboons, grey-cheeked monkeys, and black-and-white colobus monkeys.
The nation’s national bird, the crested crane, African pitta, black bee eater, brown-chested alethe, crowned eagle, purple-breasted sunbird, spotted nectar, blue-breasted Kingfisher, yellow-rumped tinkerbird, and small greenbul are just a few of the various bird species that find refuge at this well-liked birdwatching location. The swamp’s rich biodiversity helps ensure their survival and accommodation because, although it is home to a few predators, it also draws a greater number of insects, toads, and frogs for the birds to eat.
Other Tourist Activities At Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary.
Since visitors can partake in more exhilarating adventure experiences at Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary after their chimpanzee trekking experience in Kibale Forest National Park, all tourism-related activities here begin in the afternoon. At the birdwatching location, there are also nature walks through forests and swamps, as well as walks through the traditional Bigodi village.
Village and cultural excursions. Even though Bigodi village is relatively small, exploring it is a remarkable experience because it allows visitors to interact and socialize with the locals while learning various skills like farming and meal preparation. Additionally, visitors will see how much the sanctuary has benefited the neighbourhood by offering jobs, health care, and educational opportunities.
Nature walks. For truly amazing views, visitors are advised to work with knowledgeable and experienced tour guides who are informed about the local flora and fauna, tracking routes, and bird species locations. It is highly recommended that visitors to Bigodi look forward to immersing themselves in the exceptional soothing wildlife, flowers, and lush vegetation at the birding spot.
Along with a variety of butterfly species, nature walks will allow guests to see primates like baboons and monkeys. Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary nature walks typically take three full hours and are conducted in the chilly mornings and evenings.
How To Get There.
Because Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary is close to the well-known Kibale Forest National Park, accessing it is simpler. The only route is off-road between the districts of Fort Portal and Kamwenge. Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary can be reached by car in roughly six hours from Uganda’s capital city of Kampala.
