Established in 1990, Budongo Forest Reserve is dedicated to research and conservation, focusing on scientific inquiry into primate behaviour and tropical forest ecology. These studies serve to inform conservation policies and sustainable resource management practices.

Located south of Murchison Falls National Park and near Masindi city, Budongo is a 435-square-kilometre expanse of tropical rainforest nestled within the Albertine Rift. Notably, the reserve is abundant in East African mahogany trees, towering giants that can reach over 80 meters in height with trunk widths exceeding 20 meters.

Budongo is renowned as one of Uganda’s prime habitats for chimpanzees. It hosts a diverse array of wildlife, including over 360 bird species, 465 types of trees, and 24 mammal species, nine of which are primates. Additionally, the reserve boasts approximately 290 species of butterflies and 130 species of moths.

Due to its significant chimpanzee population, Budongo has become a popular destination for chimpanzee tracking. Though it may not be as well-known as Kalinzu Forest Reserve or Kibale National Park, Budongo provides plenty of chances for productive primate interactions and wildlife observation.