Chimpanzee trekking in Uganda
Chimpanzee trekking in Uganda
Uganda is home to over 5000 chimpanzees and earns the name “primate capital of the world”. Chimpanzee trekking in Uganda is done all year round though the dry seasons of July August and November are highly recommended. The wet season makes the trek more tiresome. Chimpanzees share more than 97% DNA with humans making more intriguing to watch in their natural habitat. The trackers are able to find them in the forest, so you are sure to watch them on your Uganda primate safari.
The minimum age for Chimpanzee trekking in Uganda is 15 years but in Kalinzu forest of Queen Elizabeth national park, its 12 years. There’s no maximum age limit. You have to be able bodied to make the trek into the forest. On a Uganda safari, chimpanzee trekking is done at Kibale national park, Budongo forest in Murchison falls national park, Kalinzu forest and Kyambura gorge in Queen Elizabeth national park.
Trekking in Kibale National Park
Kibale national park is the best destination for Chimpanzee trekking in Uganda. With over 1500 chimpanzees, the park is home to other primates like red tailed monkeys, grey cheeked mangabeys, white and black colobus monkeys and many more. The park is home to plenty of bird species like the great blue turaco and papyrus Gonolek.
Chimpanzee trekking in Kibale national park is done for 1 hour for each group. Six people form each group and are led by an experienced ranger in the trekking experience. Long sleeved shirts and trousers are advised due to the dense lush green vegetation and insect bites. On this chimpanzee trekking, it’s easy to see the chimpanzees up in the trees eating fruit. Rules and regulations have to be followed to ensure the conservation of these primates.
Trekking at Kyambura Gorge
Kyambura gorge is located in the western part of Uganda in Queen Elizabeth national park and is famous for its chimpanzee trekking safaris. Locally known as the valley of the apes, the gorge offers amazing chimpanzee trekking safaris. An experienced ranger will guide you through the gorge in search of these primates. Chimpanzee trekking is mostly done in the morning before it gets too hot.
This chimpanzee trekking experience can be coupled with other safari activities in Queen Elizabeth like game drives, boat cruises, crater drive and gorilla trekking in bwindi national park
Trekking in Kalinzu Forest
Kalinzu forest is located in Queen Elizabeth national park and is a hub for primate lovers. With over 300 chimpanzees, the forest offers amazing chimpanzee trekking experiences. Other primate species can be found in the forest. The tropical forest offers amazing trekking memories of the forest. Plenty of bird species can be seen on your trek of your Uganda primate safari.
The minimum age for chimpanzee trekking is 12 years. Trekking permits are cheaper and trekking is flexible. Just inform the rangers at the headquarters and you will be sorted.
What to carry when chimpanzee trekking
- Long sleeved shirts- Since the trekking is done in forests, the sleeves will protect you from tree scratches and insects
- Chimpanzee trekking permits are needed to allow you trek the chimpanzees.
- Sun screen and a hat will come in handy to protect you from sunburn and the tropical heat.
- Trekking boots are advisable. They will prevent you from slipping when it rains.
- Gloves help protect your hands when you have to hold onto trees while trekking.
