Trekking Chimpanzees in Uganda; Common Questions
Trekking Chimpanzees in Uganda is one of the most exciting safari activities after mountain gorilla trekking. This adventure takes you deep into Uganda’s lush rainforests to encounter our closest relatives in the wild. Visitors get the rare opportunity to observe chimps as they swing through the trees, feed, play, and interact within their natural habitat. Uganda remains the leading destination for chimpanzee trekking in East Africa, offering experiences in Kibale National Park, Kyambura Gorge in Queen Elizabeth National Park, and Budongo Forest near Murchison Falls National Park.
Below are answers to the most common questions travelers ask before booking their chimpanzee trekking safari.
Where is the best place for trekking chimpanzees in Uganda?
Kibale National Park is the most popular destination for trekking chimpanzees in Uganda, with over 1,500 individuals and several habituated groups. Other excellent options include Kyambura Gorge, Budongo Forest, and Kalinzu Forest. Each location offers a unique forest setting and chimp encounter.
How much does chimpanzee trekking cost in Uganda?
The cost of trekking chimpanzees in Uganda depends on the location. As of 2025, a permit in Kibale National Park costs USD 250 per person, Kyambura Gorge and Kalinzu Forest permits cost USD 100 per person, and Budongo Forest permits cost USD 120.
What time does chimpanzee trekking start?
Chimpanzee trekking in Uganda takes place twice a day, in the morning starting around 8:00 am and in the afternoon around 2:00 pm. Trekkers gather at the park headquarters for a briefing before heading into the forest.
How long does trekking chimpanzees in Uganda take?
The trek usually lasts between 3 to 6 hours, depending on where the chimpanzees are located. Once you find them, you are allowed one hour in their company to watch and photograph them.
What is the difference between chimpanzee trekking and habituation?
Chimpanzee trekking allows you to spend one hour with an already habituated group. Chimpanzee habituation, available mainly in Kibale National Park, is a full-day experience where visitors spend up to 6 hours with chimps undergoing the habituation process. The habituation permit costs USD 300.
Why embark on trekking chimpanzees in Uganda?
This adventure is not only thrilling but also contributes to conservation and community development. Permit fees support the protection of chimpanzees and their habitats while also benefiting local communities through employment and conservation programs.
Can children trek chimpanzees?
Children under the age of 12 are not permitted to take part in chimpanzee trekking in Uganda. This rule is in place for both safety reasons and to protect the wellbeing of the chimpanzees.
Ready to experience the thrill of trekking chimpanzees in Uganda? Explore our carefully designed chimpanzee safari packages some combined with other gorillas and other wildlife and contact us today for more details and bookings.
- 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
Contact Us for further details and book your chimpanzee trekking experience in Uganda.
