Amphibians in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park Uganda
Amphibians of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park in Uganda. Learn about species, where to find them, the best time to visit, and how to get there. Perfect for nature lovers and eco-travelers.
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is one of the most visited parks in Uganda. It is located in the southwest part of the country. The park was made official in 1991 and covers 331 square kilometers. This rainforest is home to many animals and plants. These include 10 species of primates, 120 mammals, 350 bird species, 51 reptiles, 27 amphibians, and 160 tree types.
About the Amphibians in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park
There are 27 types of amphibians living in Bwindi. Out of these, 11 are unique to the Albertine Rift, meaning they are found nowhere else. Amphibians are small animals with backbones that need water to live. In Bwindi, these include frogs, toads, and salamanders. Most of them can be seen near rivers, waterfalls, and wetlands across the park’s four main sectors:
- Buhoma
- Nkuringo
- Ruhija
- Rushaga
Types of Amphibians Found in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park
Some of the common amphibians you might see include:
- Congo wot wot
- Kivu reed frog
- White-snouted reed frog
- Cinnamon-bellied reed frog
- Brown reed frog
- African red toad
- Guttural toad
- Eastern flat-backed toad
- Smooth spiny reed frog
- Highland reed frog
- Mottle-side reed frog
- Common reed frog
- Senegal running frog
- Rugegewald screeching frog
- Christy’s tree frog
- Efulen forest tree frog
- Bocage’s reed frog
These amphibians mostly feed on insects like bugs, snails, slugs, spiders, and sometimes other frogs or small birds.
Best Spots to See Amphibians in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park
You can find most of these amphibians near water bodies such as:
- Munyaga Waterfalls
- Munyaga River
- River Ishasha
- River Ihihizo
- River Ivi
- River Ntengyere
These places are ideal for spotting frogs and other amphibians, especially during guided nature walks.
Guided Nature Walks and Wildlife Tours
Guided walks are the best way to explore Bwindi’s wildlife. These are led by trained park rangers who know the trails and animals well. While searching for amphibians, you might also see monkeys, birds, and many different plants. These walks give you a full experience of Bwindi’s natural beauty.
Best Time to Visit Bwindi for Amphibian Viewing
Bwindi is open to visitors all year. However, the dry season is the most comfortable time to visit. This is from:
- June to September
- December to February
During these months, there is little or no rain. The paths are dry, the grass is short, and it’s easier to see wildlife. Roads are also easier to travel on.
If you’re traveling on a budget, the rainy season (March to May and October to November) offers lower prices on hotels and lodges. But expect slippery paths, thick vegetation, and limited visibility of animals.
How to Get to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Bwindi is in Uganda’s southwest and is easy to reach by road or air:
- From Kigali, Rwanda: A 4–5 hour drive through either Katuna (Kabale) or Cyanika (Kisoro) border points.
- From Kampala, Uganda: A 9–10 hour road trip via Kabale, Kisoro, or Kanungu towns.
- By air: You can fly to Kihihi or Kisoro airstrips from Entebbe International Airport or Kajjansi Airstrip. These airstrips are close to the park.
