The name “Bigodi” came from a local Rutooro word “kugodya” meaning to walk tiredly or in slow mission. Surprisingly, visitors reach Bigodi swamp on foot, and they are eventually too tired and rest.
The Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary is an attractive area located in Magombe swamp. This area is recognized as a sanctuary because of its biodiversity that create comfort environment for primates’ species.
Because of biodiversity and its scenic beauty, the sanctuary is a must visit and the walk takes you to the important wildlife corridor of Kibale Forest and a duration of 3-4 hours.
The primate species of an area include; the red colobus monkey, baboon, black & white colobus monkey, blue monkey grey cheeked, mangabey, vervet monkey, red tailed monkey and the L’Hoest monkey. Additional Mammals such as chimpanzees, Sitatunga, mongooses, bush pigs, otters plus bush bucks, also visit this swamp coming from the adjacent Kibale National Park.
The Wetland Sanctuary is a community-based approach to the natural resources management which can be of positive social and economic benefit to the local community within and around the area as well as the destination Uganda. The Bigodi is a haven for birders. Over 200 species of bird have been recognized within the Wetland Sanctuary. For example Blue Turaco is the common residence of the area.
Local guides are equipped with knowledge making interpretive tour guides as they escort visitors through the lush vegetation. This is the perfect opportunity to view the wildlife from the forest pathways, boardwalks and atop a tree house tucked high in the canopy.
Visitors may tour the wetlands only when accompanied by a trained Sanctuary guide. The office is open every day from 7:30 AM to 5:00 PM. The best times to start the walk, which takes up to 3 hours, are 7:30-9 AM or 3 PM. However, visitors are free to enjoy the walk.
