Maramagambo forest is found in the district of Bushenyi, it is part of Queen Elizabeth national park and one of the largest forests in East Africa, it starts from kichwamba all the way to lake Edward. The name maramagambo originates from a story about a group of young people who got lost in the forest for several days, by the time they found their way home they had grown so worn out and traumatized that they could not even speak for long, therefore Maramagambo refers to someone who can not speak. Maramagambo it is home of chimpanzee, bush pigs, pythons, bats and it known for bringing rain to the surrounding human communities and locals living near the forest also get firewood.
Activities and things to do in Maramagambo forest
Despite being blessed with great biodiversity Maramagambo forest is one of the less visited attractions in Queen Elizabeth national park, many prefer visiting kyambura gorge which is closer to the park offices for chimpanzee trucking. The following are some of the things to do in Maramagambo forest
Nature walks
Maramagambo forest is one of the best places for nature walks and it can be done in 2 to 4 hours, and they can be done using different trail including forest trails, river trail, palm trail, valley trail and waterfall trail and the forest trail is suitable for those who are not fit enough to climb the trails. But of which trail you use expect to pass through verdant forest with remarkable biodiversity.
Primate viewing
Primate viewing is a home to vervet monkeys, colobus monkey’s baboons and red-tailed monkeys, chimpanzee and bush babies. But largest number of primates are the chimpanzee because they are mobile every where they are spotted in every corner of the forest.
Bird watching
It is one of the top birding spots in Uganda and birds found in maramagambo include Rwenzori Turaco, forest flycatchers, white Naped pigeons, hadada ibis to mention but a few so for the visitor to see those birds well one has to move with a pair of binoculars because others be in a distance.
Visiting the bat cave
There are several caves within maramagambo forest that is a home to millions of bats, though visitors are not allowed to extend near the bats due to diseases like Marburg virus so extending to near to the bat cave is prohibited. From the viewing point visitors can be able to spot the rock pythons feeding on the bats.
Cultural encounters
Apart from seeing what is in the bush, Maramagambo also has ahistoric cave close to the community of Nyanziibiri for a cultural encounter. It visited by people who believe in it and they believe that they will be protected from misfortunes and other calamites of life, and the people close to this cave they are the Banyaruguru people.
Forest research and conservation
Those doing monitoring and evaluation of the national forests Maramagambo forest is the best place to carry out your research because there are different tree species so researchers will be able to get all the information they need.
Best time to visit maramagambo forest
It is open to visitors through out the year though the ideal time is during the dry season in the months of September June, July, and December, how ever rainy season are the ideal for those interested in birding because it is always a breeding season and the forest is full of beautiful sounds of both residents and migratory birds.
How to arrange your visit to maramagambo forest
When considering a wildlife safari tour to Queen Elizabeth National Park, a visit to maramagambo forest should be top of your to do list, there is a lot to indulge in hereto give everyone a wonderful experience.
Things you must know and have before going to maramagambo forest
Carry a pair of binoculars, you can view some birds and animals clearly with the help of your binoculars this is because some wildlife, primates and birds.
Carry an insect repellent. It will help you to keep the uncomfortable forest insects away from your body.
Carry sunscreen lotion, a hat, and sunglasses. These protect you from the sun rays that may burn and damage your skin.
How to dress as you go to maramagambo forest
Wear long-sleeved shirts and trousers this will help you to protect your skin from being hurt by vegetation also it will be hard for insects to penetrate your clothes.
Have firm trekking shoes for easy movement this is because maramagambo forest is a place for nature walks and hikes you will definitely need comfortable.
How to get to Maramagambo forest
It is about 6 hours to reach Maramagambo forest from Kampala to Mbarara then Bushenyi to Maramagambo forest.
Maramagambo is not just a destination, it is an experience that fosters a deeper connection with nature and emphasizes the importance of conservation, whether hiking, marvelling at geological wonders or simply soaking in the serene landscape. And it is also a source of local herbs and medicine for locals in Queen Elizabeth national park for example the frame tree in the forest can increase their sexual urges.
