Kamwenge

Kamwenge is a town in western Uganda, serving as the administrative headquarters of Kamwenge District. The town is located near the southern boundary of Kibale National Park and is a gateway for visitors heading to the park for chimpanzee tracking. The area is primarily agricultural, with tea, coffee, and banana cultivation dominating the landscape.

The population is mainly Batoro, and Rutooro is the local language.

By Plane

The nearest airport is Entebbe International Airport (EBB IATA), about 250 km east.

By Train

There is no passenger train service to Kamwenge.

By Car / Road

Matatus from Fort Portal and Mbarara serve Kamwenge. The road to Kibale National Park is marram. From Fort Portal, the journey takes about 1.5 hours.

Boda-bodas are the main local transport. The town centre is small and walkable.

• Kibale National Park — About 20 km north, known for chimpanzee tracking and primate walks

• Kamwenge Market — Local trading centre

• Chimpanzee tracking in Kibale National Park

• Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary nature walk for birdwatching and primate viewing

• Local restaurants — Matoke, posho, beans, and grilled meat

Local bars serve Nile Special and Club beer. Bottled water is recommended.

• Budget: Kamwenge Guest House (basic rooms from 15,000 UGX)
• Mid-range: Kamwenge Hotel (rooms from 35,000 UGX)
• Upscale: Primate Lodge Kibale (from US$120, inside the park)

Kamwenge Market sells fresh produce and basic supplies.

• Kibale National Park (20 km north, 30 min) — Chimpanzee tracking
• Fort Portal (60 km north, 1.5 hrs) — Scenic crater lake town
• Queen Elizabeth National Park (80 km west, 2 hrs)
• Ibanda (60 km east) — Ankole cattle region