The Top Things to Do and See in Mabira Forest
Mabira Rainforest – Just 45 minutes from Kampala – Perfect Add-On to your Safari
Top Things to Do and See in Mabira Forest between Kampala – Jinja: Discover the beauty of Mabira Forest, a must-visit destination not far from Kampala and Jinja in Central Uganda.
Explore the wilderness of the Mabira Rainforest with a refreshing nature walk or bike ride. In just 45 minutes from Kampala, you can find Tranquility in this forest. Bird lovers will especially enjoy spending a whole day here, spotting the diverse bird species and taking a break for a meal at the Rainforest Lodge.
Mabira Rainforest has a remarkable variety of trees, boasting over 200 species. You’ll come across picturesque valleys, grassy areas, papyrus swamps, streams, and even a serene waterfall as you explore.
Mabira Forest’s proximity to Kampala makes it an ideal destination for a day trip to an African rainforest. Birdwatchers will be thrilled by the more than 300 forest bird species. Guided walks along the extensive trail network are recommended to fully experience the forest and learn about its mammals, birds, plants, trees, butterflies, and even medicinal plants.
The forest is also home to various wildlife, including bush pigs, blue duikers, red-tailed monkeys, and the recently discovered Uganda mangabeys, a smaller species of mangabeys. While it is rare to spot them, there is even the occasional presence of leopards within the forest.
Bird enthusiasts will be delighted by the 315 bird species found in Mabira Forest. Some notable species include Nathan’s Francolin, Cassin’s Hawk-eagle, White-spotted Flufftail, Afep Pigeon, Grey Parrot, Dusky Long-tailed Cuckoo, Black-shouldered Nightjar, Sabine’s Spinetail, Cassin’s Spinetail, Blue-throated Roller, African Dwarf-kingfisher, White-bellied Kingfisher, Forest Woodhoopoe, African Pied Hornbill, Black-and-white-casqued Hornbill, Speckled Tinkerbird, Yellow-throated Tinkerbird, Yellow-spotted Barbet, Hairy-breasted Barbet, Yellow-billed Barbet, and Green-breasted Pitta, among many others.
A visit to Mabira Forest guarantees an immersive experience in nature, with stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and abundant birdlife that will captivate nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers.
Here are the Top Things to Do and See in Mabira Forest
Ziplining in Mabira Forest:
Experience the Thrill of Ziplining in Mabira Forest: If you’re looking for an exciting adventure, ziplining in Mabira Forest is a must-try activity. It’s one of the few places in Uganda where you can enjoy this exhilarating experience, and many tourists consider it the best ziplining destination in the country.
The idea of ziplining was brought to Mabira Forest by a dedicated US Peace Corps volunteer from Washington State. He got the necessary equipment from the United States to Uganda, determined to create a thrilling ziplining experience.
With the help of a team of trained Ugandans responsible for maintaining the equipment, the zipline was successfully set up in Mabira Forest.
You can enjoy ziplining during two time slots: 8 am to noon and 1 pm to 6 pm. If your safari plans include visiting the East of Uganda, like Jinja, we can include this exciting activity in your itinerary.
Get ready to soar through the lush canopy of Mabira Forest and feel the adrenaline rush as you glide along the zipline. This adventure combines the natural beauty of the forest with the thrill of flying through the treetops, creating an unforgettable experience for adventurers seeking a unique joy in Uganda.
Uganda Mangabey Monkey Trekking:
The Uganda Mangabey Monkey is a rare and unique monkey found mainly in the Mabira Rainforest and a few places in Uganda, close to Tanzania.
In the beautiful Mabira Forest, three groups of Uganda Mangabeys have become used to humans with the help of Forest Rangers. You can arrange to track them and observe these incredible creatures. The guides and rangers have played an essential role in getting the monkeys comfortable around people.
While exploring the Mabira Rainforest, you’ll also see other fascinating wildlife like red-tailed monkeys, different types of birds, graceful butterflies, colorful flowers, and ancient tall trees that have been there for hundreds of years.
The Uganda Mangabey Monkey has recently been recognized as a unique and separate species, making it even more memorable in the forest. If you’re looking for an adventure off the beaten path, Mabira Forest is the perfect place to track these amazing monkeys. It offers an extraordinary chance to see them in their natural habitat, surrounded by a pristine and enchanting environment.
Birding in the Mabira Rainforest
Discover the fantastic birdlife of Mabira Forest: Mabira Forest is a paradise for bird lovers, with an impressive collection of 315 bird species. Among them are rare and elusive birds like Nahan’s francolin, Tit Hylia, Yellow and grey long bills, Purple-throated cuckoo shrikes, Illadopsises, and Jameson’s wattle eyes.
Mabira Rainforest is home to 46% of Uganda’s forest bird species, making it the country with the highest concentration of diverse bird species.
One of the great things about birdwatching in Mabira Forest is that you can spot many bird species within a relatively small area. The forest’s compact size means the birds are concentrated, providing an efficient and rewarding birdwatching experience.
In just one day of birdwatching in this small forest, you’ll have the chance to encounter various bird species, immersing yourself in the fascinating world of Mabira Forest’s avian residents. Get ready to be amazed by these birds’ vibrant colors, beautiful songs, and unique characteristics.
Nature Walks:
Experience the incredible birdlife of Mabira Forest: Mabira Forest is a paradise for bird lovers, with an impressive collection of 315 bird species. Among them are rare and elusive birds like Nahan’s francolin, Tit Hylia, Yellow and grey long bills, Purple-throated cuckoo shrikes, Illadopsises, and Jameson’s wattle eyes.
Even more remarkable is that the Mabira Rainforest is home to 46% of Uganda’s forest bird species, making it the country with the highest concentration of diverse bird species.
One of the great things about birdwatching in Mabira Forest is that you can spot many different bird species in a relatively small area. The forest’s size means the birds are abundant and easy to find, creating a rewarding and efficient birdwatching experience.
In just one day of exploring this captivating forest, you’ll come across various bird species, immersing yourself in the beautiful world of Mabira Forest’s birds. Get enchanted by their vibrant colors, melodic songs, and fascinating behaviors.
Mountain Biking:
Explore the thrilling mountain biking trails of Mabira Forest: If you’re a passionate mountain biker looking for an exciting adventure, Mabira Forest has well-kept trails perfect for speeding through. These trails are also great for hikers, offering a fantastic path for mountain bikers to enjoy the stunning surroundings fully.
Beyond the forest, adventurous bikers can explore the nearby communities, expanding their adventure and immersing themselves in the local culture.
Don’t worry if you don’t have your mountain bike. You can rent one from the National Forestry Department facility at Griffin Falls camp just outside the forest. Another option is Nile River Explorers in Jinja, a trusted provider known for offering high-quality bikes.
As part of our services, we can help you rent a well-maintained mountain bike, allowing you to explore the forest at your own pace. Along the way, you’ll have the chance to spot monkeys, birds, magnificent trees, and various plants, making your biking experience even more enjoyable with the natural wonders of Mabira Forest.
Rainforest Lodge – Mabira Forest:
Experience Tranquility at the Rainforest Lodge in Mabira Forest: If you’re seeking a peaceful and enchanting escape, the Rainforest Lodge in Mabira Forest is the perfect retreat for nature enthusiasts and adventurers.
As you step into the lodge, you’ll be surrounded by the serene beauty of the forest. The club seamlessly blends with its natural surroundings, providing a comfortable and cozy haven amidst the wilderness.
Each accommodation option at the Rainforest Lodge has been carefully designed to create a tranquil and rejuvenating atmosphere. Whether you choose a secluded cottage or a charming treehouse, you’ll find yourself immersed in the forest’s beauty, with the soothing melodies of birdsong and the gentle rustling of leaves as your soundtrack.
Start your day with a delicious breakfast from fresh, locally sourced ingredients, basking in the soft sunlight that filters through the forest canopy. The lodge can help organize guided walks, birdwatching excursions, or even thrilling ziplining adventures through the forest’s canopy, allowing you to explore and immerse yourself in nature.
After a day of exploration, return to the lodge and unwind on the open-air terrace. Enjoy a mouthwatering dinner while marveling at the starry sky above. Share stories and connect with fellow travelers around a cozy bonfire, or find solace in quiet moments of reflection surrounded by the untamed beauty of Mabira Forest.
The Rainforest Lodge in Mabira Forest beckons you to embrace the serenity and enchantment of this pristine natural wonderland. It offers an unforgettable experience that will revive your spirit and create cherished memories of your time in this captivating rainforest retreat.
Please let us know if you like to include Top Things to Do and See in Mabira Forest in your safari. Lodging is available at the upmarket Rainforest Lodge or the budget Griffin Camp.
