Uganda; a lovely nation located in East Africa is a true haven for primates – ranging from Chimpanzees, golden monkeys and giant Mountain Gorillas. Seeking to have an encounter with your favorite cousins-the chimpanzees; sharing over 98.7% genes, we tell you the best place and some others open for visitors.
It is beyond just seeing the chimpanzees, but also learning their ways, habitats and unique characteristics. Chimpanzees spend their time feeding, playing and moving on the trees, as they feed on foliage, fruits, ants, and stems among others. You can see the chimpanzee in the morning as they start their day or in the afternoon as the rest. Tracking chimpanzees last from 2-5 hours, plus an additional hour for photos, and asking questions, while paying attention to the acceptable dos and don’ts.
Want to see a variety of Chimpanzees in their natural habitat, go to Kibale forest national park. It is a true chimpanzee haven, hosting over 13 primates. Kibale forest is located in the western part of Uganda- around fort portal; the tourism city.
The park has one of the loveliest profusion of tropical forests and a cool climate. Chimpanzee trekking is a unique primate adventure, starting from 0700hours for about 2-5 hours. The park entrance is restricted to only those with a valid trekking permit and aged 15 years and above. The trekking permit costs 200USD for foreign non-residents, 150USD for foreign residents and 150000 UGX for East African residents including Ugandans.
OTHER CHIMPANZEE DESTINATIONS IN UGANDA.
Kyambura Gorge.
This is an underground tropical rain forest, harboring several chimpanzees. Visitors to the place stand a chance of listening to the sounds and spotting the distant apes. The trekking exercise lasts for roughly 1-4 hours, plus an additional hour for admiring the ecosystem. Kyambura gorge is located at Queen Elizabeth National Park, the second largest national park in Uganda. The first trek starts at 8:00am, whereas the second at 2:00pm local time.
Budongo forest.
Located at Murchison Falls National Park – north western part of Uganda, this is a great option for those intending to see chimpanzees. The first chimpanzee trekking is done at 08:00 hours in the morning, whereas the afternoon session starts at 1400hours. It is a 3-hour activity along the Kaniyo-Pabidi trail. In Budongo forest, visitors can also do chimpanzee habituation experience for the whole day.
Toro-Semuliki reserve.
This is located near Semuliki national park in the great Albertine rift, overshadowed by the snowcapped mountain Rwenzori. While on a primate walk, visitors get the chance to watch the apes playing or feeding freely in their territory. The reserve is open all year round.
Ngamba Island chimpanzee sanctuary.
Home to over 52 rescued orphaned chimpanzees from the different regions of East Africa, this is one of the places you can see chimpanzees and learn of their unique behaviors. It is located at the shores of Lake Victoria; the world’s largest freshwater lake in Wakiso district.
Being a sanctuary you don’t track but rather watch them in the designated cage. This sanctuary is accessed only by boat on the lake and it is managed by the chimpanzee sanctuary and wildlife conservation Fund. The offers range from half and Full-day trip, with an opportunity of spending a night at the eco lodge in the place.
Best time for seeing the chimpanzees.
Chimpanzees are present in the park all year round and open for viewing any day of the week. However, June to September and December to February are the most recommendable months, because it’s the dry season and thus less rain interference. Note that chimpanzee permits are in high demand thus the need to book in advance.
Set for a Chimpanzee trekking safari, move along with good hiking boots, rainproof coat, a professional camera and gloves to protect your hands, binoculars, a hat and insect repellents.
Watching the chimpanzees play, feed or move is unforgettable. Book with us your chimpanzee trekking trip today and encounter your cousins in their natural habitat.
