evidence: Formerly a forest reserve, the park is a virtually untouched tropical lowland forest. It is separated from the Ituri Forest of Zaire only by River Semliki. [...] Visitors hiking through the forest can come across small open grasslands, swamps, stands of bamboo, ironwood and oil palm. The Semiliki River has developed its own ecosystem and the hot springs at Sempaya (where the waters reach 106oC) attracts many shorebirds that feed on the fish that live in the mud. [...] The Semuliki National Park is ideal for those who want to get off the tourist trail to hike and camp for a few days. Guides are available for nature walks in the forest, and the park has a short established trail that loops around the hot springs. Many trails require guides because they are less clearly marked. One trail is along the park boundary north of the Semliki River beside the border with Zaire. It can take up to six days to complete a circuit around the park. One popular walk is along the main road from Sempaya to Ntandi, which passes the lovely Mungilo Falls. If visitors have their own vehicle they can combine Semliki with a trip to the foothills of the Rwenzori and the two spectacular Ngite Falls. Don’t forget to bring hiking boots and rain gear.