Kabwoya Wildlife Reserve

Kabwoya reserve is a hidden gem situated within the Western side of the Albertine Rift Valley between the breathtaking Blue Mountains of the Congo and Lake Albert and covers an area of 87 square miles. It is characterized by remote savannah plains along Lake Albert and tourists can enjoy the striking views of Lake Albert and the magnificent Blue mountains of DRC. This Wildlife reserve was gazzeted in 1980 and became a wildlife Reserve in 2002 but till today, few people know about it.

Prior to being gazzeted especially in the 1960’s Kabwoya Reserve used to be a controlled hunting ground and used to home numerous wildlife species but were eventually wiped out due to the high rate of poaching, then the area became a grazing ground for the Cattle herders who used to take their animals into the Reserve thereby driving away even the few wildlife that were left.

With the introduction/translocation of more animals into the Reserve, it is increasingly becoming a wildlife Paradise and some of the species likely to be encountered include Buffaloes, primates such as Baboons common along the Cliffs, Black and white Colobus monkeys, Chimpanzees and the Vervet monkeys mainly around the shores of River Wamababya and Hoywa, Antelopes such as Uganda Kobs, waterbucks, Bushbucks, bush duikers, Jackson’s hartebeests and Impalas among others, Hippos within Lake Albert. There are also over 460 bird species that call Kabwoya Wildlife reserve home. This Reserve does not only boast of its wildlife species and bird species but also the breathtaking scenery which makes the place a mini heaven/paradise.

Things to Do

Some of the common Tourist activities within Kabwoya Wildlife Reserve include Fishing, Horseback rides, Fossil hunting, Guided Nature walks, birding, game drives, birding and boat rides among others.

Fishing

Fishing within Kabwoya Wildlife Reserve is conducted from Lake Albert where tourists can be able to catch different sizes of the Nile Perch. Half day or full-day fishing adventures using motorboats can be organized for tourists. Only a maximum of three anglers are allowed in each boat for safety reasons.

Fossil Hunting

Fossil hunting is one of the most important and interesting activities that allows tourists to hunt for fossils that have existed for generations.

Mountain Bike Riding

This is a must-do activity for tourists who are interested in exercising while at the same time view different wildlife species within Kabwoya Wildlife reserve. The savannah plains of the Reserve offer magnificent biking trails where participants can ride through easily.

Quad bike rides

Believe it or not, Kabwoya is the only Wildlife reserve where Quad biking is conducted and this allows you tom view wildlife in an extraordinary way. You will relish the breathtaking scenery of the Wildlife reserve and the Wildlife and bird species.

Birding

Kabwoya Wildlife Reserve is an important birding area because it is a home to over 460 species of birds including the Albertine Rift endemic bird species. You will need a cameras and binoculars for an ultimate birding experience.

Horseback rides

Did you know that horseback rides were possible within this exceptional wildlife reserve? Besides Lake Mburo National Park, Kabwoya Wildlife reserve is another place where tourists can relish horseback rides in the wild. The most recommended time is early morning or sunset where variety of wildlife such as buffaloes, duikers, warthogs and Uganda Kobs and can be sighted.

Guided nature walks/hiking

Nature walks are a must do for most tourists who visit Kabwoya Wildlife Reserve. The most interesting is when the nature walks are conducted from the Albertine Rift escarpment that rewards tourists with the breathtaking views of several antelope species, warthogs, primates and bird species among others.

Where to Stay

Best Places to Stay While at Kabwoya Wildlife Reserve

Accommodation exists within Lake Albert Safari Lodge that offers exquisite accommodation and serene environment ideal for relaxation.

In conclusion, the Kabwoya wildlife reserve is a perfect destination ideal for a safari because it offers a variety of tourist activities that include birding, nature walks, fossil hunting, horseback rides, quad biking and game drives among others.