Katonga Game Reserve, Western Uganda

The Katonga Wildlife Reserve is one of the 12  wildlife reserves in Uganda,  located in the western part of the country, along the banks of the Katonga River. This reserve was established in 1998 to preserve the biodiversity in the region. Katonga Wildlife Reserve covers a total land area that approximately to 211 square kilometres (81 sq mi). Many of the species of plants and animals in the reserve are unique to its wetland environment. Athough generally unpopular on Uganda Safari itineraries, the Katonga Wildlife Reserve is a great destination to tour during your visit in Uganda.

Katonga Wildlife reserve is located in the Ibanda and Kamwenge Districts in western Uganda. In Kamwenge, it borders with the Biguli subcounty and part of the Mpara subcounty in Kyenjojo District.

Wildlife

The vegetation of the reserve is mixed savannah with acacia scrubland or woodlands. A large portion of the reserve is either permanent or seasonal wetlands. There are also pockets of riverine and tropical forest.

Katonga Wildlife Reserve is home to over forty (40) species of Mammals and over one hundred and fifty (150) species of birds; many of them specific to Wetland Habitats. Commonly sighted in the Wetland Reserve are Elephant, Waterbuck, Reedbuck, Colobus Monkeys and River Otters. Also found in this habitat is the shy Sitatunga, a semi-aquatic Antelope with webbed hooves. Viewing this game from a Canoe, whilst they come to the water’s edge to drink is a thrilling and memorable experience.

Location

In the districts of Ibanda and Kamwenge in Western Uganda, along the banks of the Katonga River.Size Approximately 211sq km getting there it’s 200km, by road from Kampala, accessible by public transport. Actives Bird Watching and game viewing of the variety of animals including the Sitatunga.

When to visit

It is best to visit Katonga in the dry season for ease of getting around the reserve. January – Febraury and July-August are the driest months, but rain is possible due to unpredictable seasonal changes.