Chimpanzee trekking Adventures in Uganda

Chimpanzee Trekking Adventures in Uganda

At Msafiri Tours, we organise unforgettable Chimpanzee trekking adventures across Uganda, giving you the chance to get up close with our closest relatives in the wild. Whether it’s in Kibale Forest, Budongo, Kyambura Gorge, Ngamba Island, or Murchison Falls, we make sure your trekking experience is seamless, exciting, and memorable.

Chimpanzee Trekking Adventures in Uganda

What is Chimpanzee Trekking?

Chimpanzee trekking is a guided forest walk in search of chimps swinging from tree to tree, feeding, grooming, or playing. The trek usually lasts a few hours, with each group spending up to one magical hour with the chimpanzees before heading back to camp.

Along the trails, you may also spot:

Black and white colobus monkeys
Red-tailed monkeys
Grey-cheeked mangabeys
Olive baboons
Over 400 species of birds

Top Chimpanzee Trekking Destinations in Uganda

1. Kibale Forest National Park – The Primate Capital

Home to over 1,500 chimpanzees, with 120 habituated for trekking.
Trekking sessions run twice daily (8:00 am and 3:00 pm).
Each trek lasts 2–3 hours, with small groups of 6 people for an intimate experience.
Permits: $150 (peak season) | $100 (low season).
Chimpanzee habituation experiences available (spend up to a full day with chimps).
Other wildlife: mangabeys, colobus monkeys, and countless bird species.
Lodging: Primate Lodge, Kyaninga Lodge, and other eco-friendly stays.

2. Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary – Lake Victoria

Founded with support from Dr. Jane Goodall, now home to over 50 rescued chimpanzees.
Accessible by speedboat from Entebbe.
Activities: feeding sessions, boat rides, fishing, bird watching, and village tours.
Children (5–15 years) pay half price.
Perfect for families and visitors with limited time.

3. Murchison Falls National Park – Budongo & Kaniyo Pabidi Forests

Home to over 600 chimpanzees across Budongo, Rabongo, and Kaniyo Pabidi forests.
Trekking offered twice daily.
Best time: October to January (dry season, easier sightings).
Rich ecosystem with elephants, lions, giraffes, and over 500 bird species.
Accommodation: luxury, mid-range, and budget lodges around Paraa, Victoria Nile, and Albert Nile areas.

4. Queen Elizabeth National Park – Kyambura Gorge

Known as the “Valley of Apes.”
Smaller chimpanzee population (~17), but trekking here is rewarding and scenic.
Treks last 1–2 hours, often combined with a game drive in Queen Elizabeth National Park.
Lodging: Kyambura Gorge Safari Lodge, Mweya Safari Lodge, Jacana Lodge, KingFisher Camp, and Katara Lodge.

5. Semuliki Wildlife Reserve & Kalinzu Forest

Lesser-known destinations, ideal for travellers who want off-the-beaten-path adventures.
Great chances to spot chimpanzees, birds, and other primates in quiet surroundings.

Chimpanzee Trekking Permits in Uganda

Issued by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA).
Limited daily permits to protect the chimpanzees.
Details included on the permit: trekking date, time, personal details, and serial number.
Permits are non-transferable and non-refundable.
Booking through a trusted tour operator like Msafiri Tours is highly recommended.

Permit Costs (per person, per trek)

Kibale Forest: $150 (peak) | $100 (low season).
Budongo Forest: $90 (year-round).
Kyambura Gorge: $50 (year-round).

Why Choose Msafiri Tours?

We handle permit booking and logistics with UWA.
Professional, knowledgeable guides and drivers.
Tailor-made chimp trekking itineraries for families, groups, and solo travellers.
Assistance with accommodation bookings near trekking locations.
Options to combine chimpanzee trekking with gorilla trekking, game drives, cultural tours, or adventure activities.