Embark on a thrilling 3-day Chimpanzee Trekking Tour in Uganda’s Kibale Forest National Park, the primate capital of the world! Home to over 1,500 chimpanzees and 13 primate species, including rare red colobus and I’Hoest’s monkey, this lush forest offers an unparalleled experience for wildlife enthusiasts. Spot these captivating creatures, along with colorful bird species and other mammals, in their natural habitat.
During the tour, track nearly 100 habituated chimpanzees and enjoy a guided walk through the Bigodi wetlands, where more monkeys and exotic birds await. For a deeper experience, join the Chimpanzee Habituation Experience, where you’ll follow chimps from dawn, witnessing their unique behaviors as they interact, feed, and socialize.
Your Journey, begins with an early pickup from your hotel at 7:00 a.m., starting the scenic road trip to Kibale National Park in western Uganda. The route takes you through picturesque landscapes with views of tea plantations, lush forests, and the Matiri Forest Reserve.
Around Midday, you’ll reach Fort Portal, where you’ll stop for lunch. This charming town lies at the base of the legendary Rwenzori Mountains, providing a dramatic volcanic backdrop as you continue your journey toward the park. You’ll arrive at your lodge near Kibale National Park in the late afternoon to check in and unwind.
After an early breakfast, you’ll transfer to the Kanyanchu Visitor Center at Kibale Forest National Park. Here, you’ll meet park rangers for a pre-trek briefing before setting off in small groups to track one of the three habituated chimpanzee communities within the forest. The trek, typically lasting 3–5 hours, offers a close look at the diverse flora and fauna of the forest, including other primates like Red Colobus, L’Hoest’s Monkey, Grey-cheeked Mangabey, and Vervet Monkeys. Bird lovers will also enjoy the chance to spot some of the 335 species found here.
Once you locate a chimpanzee community, you’ll have an hour to observe these fascinating animals as they swing through the trees, calling to each other, slapping tree trunks, and interacting in their natural habitat—a thrilling and unforgettable experience. Afterward, return to the visitor center to receive a certificate of completion before heading back to the lodge for lunch.
Later, you’ll visit the Bigodi Wetlands, located on the eastern edge of the forest in Magombe Swamp. Managed by the local community, this biodiverse area is home to about 138 bird species, including the rare Green-breasted Pitta, Papyrus Gonolek, and Great Blue Turaco. The swamp walk also offers a chance to spot various primate species and wildlife like bushbucks, mongooses, and forest elephants.
Following the swamp walk, you’ll join a community tour to learn about local culture and traditions. Activities include banana gin brewing, coffee processing, craft making, and a visit to a traditional healer to see the use of local medicines. You’ll return to your lodge in the evening to relax and have dinner.
After a relaxed breakfast, After a relaxed breakfast, you’ll check out and begin the journey back to Kampala or Entebbe. A packed lunch will be provided, with a stop along the way to enjoy your meal. Upon arrival, your guide will drop you off at your hotel, concluding your tour.