Understanding the Park’s Geography and Access
Semuliki National Park lies in the westernmost part of Uganda, within the Albertine Rift Valley.
It borders the Democratic Republic of Congo along the Semuliki River, forming a natural ecological corridor between the Ituri Forest and Uganda’s conservation network.
The park lies within Bundibugyo District, about 52 kilometres from Fort Portal town.
Access from Kampala usually follows the Kampala-Fort Portal highway through Mubende, covering approximately 300 kilometres.
The road is paved and suitable for all-weather travel, taking about five to six hours depending on traffic and rest stops. From Fort Portal to Sempaya Gate, the route spans 52 kilometres on a murram road that becomes challenging during heavy rainfall.
Vehicles with high clearance are advised, particularly in the wet months.
Alternative access is possible via Bundibugyo town, located to the west of the park. The road section between Fort Portal and Bundibugyo passes through the scenic Rwenzori foothills, occasionally steep but manageable for four-wheel-drive vehicles.
The Uganda Wildlife Authority maintains two primary entry gates, Sempaya and Ntandi, both accessible by road.
For visitors preferring air travel, chartered flights can land at Semuliki Airstrip or at Kasese Airfield, roughly 80 kilometres away. From either airfield, road transfers connect directly to the park lodges or Uganda Wildlife Authority offices.
Semuliki’s positioning within a transitional ecological zone influences not only its biodiversity but also its accessibility.
Roads often follow the valley floor, and rainfall patterns can temporarily affect movement.