Explore Uganda’s best chimpanzee tracking spots and discover the unique adventures each location offers. Chimpanzee trekking Uganda promises an unforgettable wildlife experience.
Uganda is widely celebrated for its gorilla trekking experiences. However, many travelers are surprised to discover that it’s also one of the best countries in Africa for chimpanzee tracking. With over 5,000 chimpanzees living in the wild, Uganda offers a variety of lush habitats where visitors can observe these highly intelligent and social primates up close.
Whether you’re a wildlife lover, an adventure traveler, or a first-time safari-goer, tracking chimpanzees in Uganda is an unforgettable experience. Here’s a deep dive into the top destinations for chimpanzee tracking in Uganda. Learn what makes each unique and how to plan your visit.
1. Kibale Forest National Park — The Primate Capital of the World
Location: Western Uganda, near Fort Portal
Best for: High success rate and dense chimpanzee population
Chimpanzee Population: Estimated 1,500 individuals
Why it’s special:
Kibale Forest is by far the most popular and reliable destination for chimpanzee tracking in Uganda. Often called the “Primate Capital of the World,” the park is home to 13 different primate species, including the black-and-white colobus monkey, red-tailed monkey, and L’Hoest’s monkey. Tracking tours in Kibale are conducted twice a day (morning and afternoon). The chances of locating a chimpanzee community are over 90%. The chimps here are well-habituated to human presence, making the experience safe, intimate, and incredibly rewarding.
Bonus Option: For those looking for a deeper dive, the Chimpanzee Habituation Experience (CHEX) allows you to spend 4–6 hours with the chimps as they wake, forage, and interact in their natural environment.
Best Time to Visit: December to February and June to September (dry seasons)
2. Budongo Forest Reserve (Murchison Falls National Park) — Chimp Tracking with a Waterfall Bonus
Location: Northwest Uganda, near Murchison Falls.
Best for: Combining chimp tracking with a classic safari and boat cruise.
Chimpanzee Population: Over 600
Why it’s special:
Budongo Forest is a biologically rich rainforest located within the southern sector of Murchison Falls National Park, Uganda’s largest protected area. It is ideal for travelers who want to experience chimpanzee tracking alongside game drives, boat cruises on the Nile, and visits to the dramatic Murchison Falls. Chimpanzees here are also habituated. The forest trails are relatively flat, making the tracking experience easier compared to Kibale.
Tip: Pairing chimp tracking in Budongo with a Big Five safari in Murchison creates a well-rounded adventure.
Best Time to Visit: December to March and June to September
3. Kyambura Gorge (Queen Elizabeth National Park) — The Valley of Apes
Location: Western Uganda, near the Kazinga Channel.
Best for: Scenic landscapes and combining with wildlife safaris.
Chimpanzee Population: 30–40 individuals
Why it’s special:
Nicknamed the “Valley of Apes,” Kyambura Gorge is a dramatic 100-meter-deep forested ravine nestled in the savannah plains of Queen Elizabeth National Park. Tracking chimpanzees here is less predictable due to the small group size. However, the surreal landscape alone is worth the visit. Descending into the gorge feels like entering a hidden jungle world, complete with lush vegetation, echoing calls, and meandering streams. While sightings are less guaranteed (about 60% success rate), spotting chimps here is a real thrill.
Bonus: Queen Elizabeth is also known for tree-climbing lions, hippo-filled boat cruises, and crater lakes. So, it’s easy to build a diverse safari itinerary.
Best Time to Visit: June to October and December to February
4. Kalinzu Forest Reserve — Budget-Friendly Chimp Tracking
Location: Near Queen Elizabeth National Park, southwest Uganda.
Best for: Affordable chimp tracking with good success rates.
Chimpanzee Population: Around 300
Why it’s special:
Just a short drive from Queen Elizabeth National Park, Kalinzu Forest offers a more budget-friendly chimp tracking experience. It still boasts a healthy chimpanzee population. The forest is managed by the National Forestry Authority rather than UWA (Uganda Wildlife Authority), which keeps prices slightly lower. Chimp sightings here are frequent. The forest also hosts other primates, like blue monkeys and olive baboons, as well as over 250 bird species.
Tip: It’s a great alternative if Kibale is fully booked or if you’re traveling on a tighter budget.
Best Time to Visit: All year round, though drier months are more comfortable
5. Toro-Semliki Wildlife Reserve — Remote and Raw Wilderness
Location: Southwestern Uganda, near the Congolese border
Best for: Off-the-beaten-path adventures
Chimpanzee Population: Small, scattered groups
Why it’s special:
Toro-Semliki is one of the least visited reserves in Uganda, offering a wild, unspoiled tracking experience. The chimps here are being studied and semi-habituated, making sightings more uncertain. However, the opportunity to track them in such a remote setting is rewarding for intrepid travelers.
Note: Because of the low habituation, tracking here may be more suited for researchers or repeat visitors looking for a different experience.
Best Time to Visit: December to March and June to September
What to Expect on a Chimpanzee Tracking Experience
- Duration: 2–4 hours typically, depending on the location of the chimpanzees.
- Group Size: Limited to 6–8 people per group for a low-impact, immersive experience.
- Fitness Level: Moderate – expect to hike through dense forests, uneven terrain, and possibly muddy trails.
- What to Bring: Long-sleeve clothing, waterproof hiking boots, insect repellent, water, snacks, binoculars, and a camera (no flash).
Final Tips for Planning
- Permits are required for chimpanzee tracking and are best booked in advance, especially for Kibale.
- Combine chimpanzee tracking with gorilla trekking or Big Five safaris for a complete Ugandan adventure.
- Booking with a reputable tour operator ensures smooth logistics, knowledgeable guides, and ethical practices.
Are You Ready for the Chimpanzee Encounter of a Lifetime?
Ready to hear the rustle of leaves, the echoing calls through the forest, and the thrill of locking eyes with our closest wild cousins? Chimpanzee tracking in Uganda isn’t just a wildlife activity. It’s a journey into the heart of the wild and a powerful reminder of our connection to nature. Whether you’re a solo explorer, a couple seeking adventure, or a group chasing unforgettable moments, Uganda’s forests promise an experience that stirs the soul. So, lace up your boots, grab your camera, and let the forest guide your next great story.
