The Semliki Valley contains numerous features associated with central rather than eastern Africa.
Semliki National Park is gifted with unique geographical barriers that have formed a naturel haven for wildlife. The edge of escarpments. The park harbors many mammals, ranging from widespread forest dwellers such as elephants and chimps. Situated within the semliki valley is the Sempaya hot springs, the park protects an extension of the Congo’s vast Ituri rainforest and is of interest to birders with 40 essentially Congolese species found nowhere else in Uganda. Located on a 221 sq km land, semliki is a perfect tourist destination, no doubt.
The Semliki Valley contains numerous features associated with central rather than eastern Africa. Thatched huts are shaded by West African oil palms; the Semliki River (which forms the international boundary) is a miniature version of the Congo River, the forest is home to numerous Central African wildlife species, and the local population includes a Batwa pygmy community that originated from the Ituri. As a result, this park provides a taste of Central Africa without having to leave Uganda.
ACTIVITIES IN SEMLIKI NATIONAL PARK
At Semliki Nationak Park, expect Cultural Encounters:The Batwa’s hunter-gatherer lifestyle means they have always been dependent on Semuliki forest for food, shelter, medicine and tools, though this is beginning to change as a result of interaction with other local communities.
Tourism offers an alternative source of income for the Batwa, and gives them the opportunity to maintain and display their rich cultural history through music and dance performances at Ntandi. They also produce intricate handcrafts for sale.
Birding:Birders who make it to Semuliki will be rewarded with some of Africa’s best forest birding. Sempaya and Ntandi provide excellent viewing of the birds including the White-crested Hornbill, Red-billed Dwarf Hornbill, Piping Hornbill, Yellow-throated Nicator, Great blue and Ross’s Turacos.
Hiking and Nature Walks,
Game Drives; Three tracks cross the savannah grassland of Toro Semliki Wildlife Reserve. Smaller forest and larger savannah elephants are regularly seen, along with buffalo, waterbuck, crocodile, warthog and Uganda kob.
and Hot Springs.
