This is one of the largest tropical forest covers in the East of the continent of Africa. It is located south of Queen Elizabeth National Park, in Bushenyi district in the southern part of Uganda. It is famous for its primates and bat population. In 2008, the bat caves, one of the top attractions in the place were closed after a woman contracted Marburg virus believed to be spread by these bats. Scientists from the Netherlands arrived at the place to do more research in regards to the virus and as well got some findings. A few years, a viewing point was built to enable at viewing and the place was reopened.

The name Maramagambo was derived from the local word “imaramagambo” meaning “end of words”. This was when after some youths entered the forest and failed to find their way out, they got exhausted and speechless, thus by the time they were found, they couldn’t speak a word, making the natives conclude with the “imaramagambo” name.

The forest is neighbored by two crater lakes namely; Kyasanduka and Nyamasingiri, as well as the great Katwe salt lake. There are four major trails in the forest, followed during primate trekking, nature walk, bird watching and cave exploration. These trails include;

Waterfall trail.

An 11 kilometer stretch, via the valley leading to Kilyantama waterfall, a magnificent attraction. These trails take approximately 4-5 hours as you tussle through the hilly terrain and encounter some men with bark clothes from figs and the waterfalls.

Palm trail.

This is a 5-kilometer trail, with flat terrain and a variety of plants. A walk through this route lasts for roughly 2 hours and is the most loved by visitors. The Frame tree is one of the main attractions in this trail, as it is regarded as a stimulator to women’s sexual desires; and the raphai palms used for making mats.

River Kajojo Trail.

A one-hour trail, through to river Kajojo, which stretches on roughly 2.5kms. At one point in time, elephants used to shower at the stream, hence the name Kajojo, which means little elephant. You stand a chance of encountering a variety of primates, birds and the scenic river.

Valley trail.

This takes approximately 3-hours’ hike while encountering the Viagra trees, ridges and plants to mention but a few.

Activities in Maramagambo forest.

Primate trekking.

Not so much known, but maramagambo forest has a total of 8 primate species, notably the chimpanzees, baboons, black and white Colobus monkeys, L’Hoest’s monkeys, blue monkeys, red-tailed monkeys and Vervet monkeys.

The exercise is best done in the morning and afternoon, through the guidance of expert ranger guides who welcome and brief visitors about the trekking exercise. Primate trekking is done on foot, in the designated trails for roughly 2-6 hours.

Visiting the Bat caves.

Bats have for the longest time been existing in this forest. They are relatively big and dwell within the caves inside the forest. Ever since the Marburg virus incident, visitors watch the bats and caves from a distance, through the viewing point.

Bird watching.

This is one reason you may pick Maramagambo forest for a birding safari in Uganda. The notable birds include; greater flamingos, papyrus Gonolek, pink-backed pelican, black bee-eater, African broadbill, and the white winged warbler among others.

Guided nature walk.

Have a quality time under shadows of the tree canopy in one of the largest forests in the east of the continent of Africa. The walk offers an amazing forest experience and views of various attractions, notably; birds, primates, river Kajojo and the fascinating waterfall among others.

Best time to visit Maramagambo Forest.

Maramagambo forest is open to visitors all year round, with the ranger guides present to take you through the entire tour. The most ideal time to explore maramagambo forest is during the dry season-June to October and December to February. The dry season is more convenient since there are either no or fewer rains causing the trails to be muddy and hard to navigate. For bird lovers, we recommend the wet months – March to May or October to November when there are a variety of birds at your exposure to feed on the abundant foods, fruits and so much more.

Visit Maramagambo for the best nature experiences. Access the forest from Kampala through the Mbarara and Bushenyi highway. A public bus or 1 hour flight to Mweya – Queen Elizabeth National Park can get you to this incredible destination.