Chimpanzee Trekking in Kibale Forest, Uganda

Kibale National Park near Fort Portal is the best place in Africa to see wild chimpanzees. The forest holds about 1,500 chimpanzees and twelve other primate species, including red colobus, black-and-white colobus and L'Hoest's monkeys. Sightings are very reliable, with the main habituated community seen on most trips.

How the trek works

The day starts at the Kanyanchu visitor centre at about 7:30 am with a briefing from a ranger guide. You walk into the forest in a small group of up to eight people and follow the chimpanzees by sound and trail. The search can take from one to four hours. Once you find them you stay for one hour, watching them feed, groom and travel, and hearing their loud calls.

Permits and cost

The standard chimpanzee permit costs about 250 US dollars for foreign non-residents, and the price is set by the Uganda Wildlife Authority and can change. The Chimpanzee Habituation Experience costs more and lets you stay with the chimps for up to four hours, following them from the time they wake.

Best time to go

Chimpanzees can be tracked all year. The drier months of June to September and December to February are easier for walking, while the wet months have more fruit and activity but muddy trails.

What to wear

Long trousers, long-sleeved top, waterproof hiking boots and a light rain jacket are best. Bring insect repellent, a hat, gloves for stinging plants and a small day pack with water. Children under 12 are not allowed on the trek.

Gorillas or chimpanzees

Gorilla trekking is a quieter, more intense encounter, while chimpanzee tracking is faster and more energetic. Many travellers do both, which is why Kibale and Bwindi appear together on most of our Uganda itineraries.