Chimpanzee Tracking in Uganda – All You Need To Know Before You Go 2024 Updates

Chimpanzee tracking in Uganda is an exciting wildlife adventure that allows you to observe these intelligent and fascinating primates in their natural habitat. Uganda is home to both common chimpanzees and the endangered eastern chimpanzees. Here’s a guide to chimpanzee tracking in Uganda.

Choose a Chimpanzee Tracking Destination

Uganda offers several destinations for chimpanzee tracking, each with its unique charm and primate populations. Some of the top chimpanzee tracking destinations include:

Kibale Forest National Park: Known as the “Primate Capital of the World,” Kibale is one of the best places to track chimpanzees. It’s home to a large population of chimps and other primates.

Budongo Forest Reserve: Located in Murchison Falls National Park, Budongo Forest is a great place for chimpanzee tracking. The forest is also famous for its birdlife.

Kyambura Gorge: This gorge is found within Queen Elizabeth National Park and is known for its isolated population of chimpanzees.

Semliki Wildlife Reserve: In Semliki, you can track chimpanzees in a beautiful and remote forest setting.

Obtain a Chimpanzee Tracking Permit

You’ll need a permit to track chimpanzees in any of these destinations. Permits can be obtained through Tubale Safaris Ltd. It’s advisable to book your permit in advance, especially during the high tourist season.

Chimpanzee tracking in Uganda Budongo Forest

Chimpanzee tracking Budongo Forest

Plan Your Trip

Decide which chimpanzee tracking destination you want to visit and make travel arrangements accordingly. Some destinations may require a longer drive or even a domestic flight.

Wear appropriate clothing for the forest environment, including long-sleeved shirts, long pants, sturdy hiking boots, and a hat. Don’t forget insect repellent, sunscreen, and a rain jacket.

Chimpanzee Tracking Experience

On the day of your tracking, arrive at the designated starting point early in the morning for a pre-trek briefing. You’ll receive important information about chimpanzee behavior, safety guidelines, and the rules for the experience.

Accompanied by trained guides and trackers, you’ll enter the forest in search of chimpanzee groups. The trekking duration can vary from a few hours to a full day, depending on the location of the chimpanzees.

Once you find a chimpanzee group, you’ll have a limited time (usually up to one hour) to observe and photograph them. This experience offers a chance to witness their social interactions, grooming, and feeding habits.

Chimpanzee Tracking in Kibale Forest

Respect Conservation Rules

Follow all guidelines provided by your guides to ensure the safety of both visitors and chimpanzees.

Health and Safety

Ensure you have the necessary vaccinations and health precautions before traveling to Uganda.

Accommodation

There are various lodging options near the chimpanzee tracking destinations, including lodges, tented camps, and guesthouses. Book your accommodation in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.

Chimpanzee tracking in Uganda provides an opportunity to connect with our closest relatives in the animal kingdom. It’s an educational and memorable experience that also supports conservation efforts to protect these endangered primates.