Chimpanzee Trekking Permits Cost Uganda 2026/2027
Chimpanzee Trekking Permits Cost is one of the first things travelers consider when planning a safari in Uganda. Kibale Forest National Park is the country’s most famous chimp trekking destination, often called the “primate capital of the world” with over 1,500 chimpanzees and more than 13 primate species. A permit issued by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) allows visitors aged 12 and above to join a guided trek and spend one full hour with habituated chimpanzees in their natural rainforest habitat.
Chimpanzee Trekking Permits Cost 2026/2027
The current chimpanzee trekking permits cost in Kibale Forest National Park is set as follows:
- Foreign non-residents: USD 250 per person
- Foreign residents: USD 200 per person
- East African citizens: UGX 200,000 per person
For travelers seeking a more immersive experience, the chimpanzee habituation permit which allows up to four hours with the chimps costs:
- Foreign non-residents: USD 300 per person
- Foreign residents: USD 250 per person
- East African citizens: UGX 250,000 per person
Because these permits are in high demand, especially in peak seasons (June to September and December to February), it is strongly advised to book at least three to six months in advance.
What’s Included in a Chimpanzee Trekking Permit
A valid permit covers more than just entry into the park. The chimpanzee trekking permits cost also includes:
- One hour of observation with a habituated chimpanzee family
- Services of an experienced UWA ranger guide
- Kibale Forest National Park entrance fees
- Security provided by armed rangers during your trek
Booking Chimpanzee Trekking Permits
The easiest way to secure your permit is through a reputable tour operator. Simply share your preferred dates, and once availability is confirmed, you’ll make a deposit to secure the booking. Your operator will then purchase the permit on your behalf and provide a scanned receipt as proof.
The Chimpanzee Trekking Experience in Kibale
Chimpanzee trekking begins at the Kanyanchu Visitor Centre with a morning briefing on park rules and trekking guidelines. Groups are then assigned experienced guides who lead the way through the forest in search of chimpanzees. Depending on their movements, trekking can last two to five hours.
Once found, visitors spend one magical hour observing chimps feed, groom, play, and interact with their families. Along the way, trekkers may also encounter other primates like red-tailed monkeys, black-and-white colobus, and grey-cheeked mangabeys, along with hundreds of bird species and diverse forest plants.
Best Time to Visit for Chimpanzee Trekking
The dry seasons from June to September and December to February are considered the best time for chimpanzee trekking, as forest trails are less muddy and easier to navigate. However, the wetter months of March to May and October to November offer fewer crowds and a more exclusive trekking experience.
Ready to meet Uganda’s playful chimps in their natural rainforest home? Explore our carefully designed chimpanzee trekking packages in Kibale Forest and beyond.
- 4 Days Luxury Chimpanzee Trekking safari in Kibale National Park Uganda
- 7 Days Luxury Gorilla & Chimpanzee Trekking Uganda
- 7 Days Luxury Gorilla Habituation & Chimpanzee Tracking
