Chimpanzee Tracking

Kibale Forest National Park is often called the “Primate Capital of the World”—and for good reason. It hosts the highest density of chimpanzees in Uganda and offers the best chance of sightings (up to 90%). Its dense, evergreen forest is also home to 12 other primate species, making the experience rich and varied. Kibale’s organized tracking system, knowledgeable guides, and accessible terrain make it ideal for both first-timers and seasoned trekkers. Whether you’re watching a mother cradle her infant or hearing a distant hoot echo through the trees, chimpanzee tracking in Kibale is nothing short of magical.

Beyond Kibale, Uganda offers three other beautiful forests for chimp tracking—each with its own charm. Budongo Forest, near Murchison Falls, is the largest natural forest in Uganda and is known for its tall mahogany trees and large chimp population. Kyambura Gorge, a dramatic rift in Queen Elizabeth National Park, offers a striking setting to track chimps below the savannah. Kalinzu Forest, just outside Queen Elizabeth, is a lesser-known gem with high success rates and peaceful trails. These spots are ideal for travelers seeking quieter, more off-the-beaten-path experiences—and they pair perfectly with game drives and boat safaris in nearby parks.

If you’re looking for a deeper, more immersive encounter, consider the Chimpanzee Habituation Experience (CHEX) offered in Kibale and Budongo. Instead of a 1-hour viewing like standard treks, CHEX allows you to spend 4–6 hours with chimps as they go about their day. You’ll follow them from their morning nests and observe natural behaviors as researchers and trackers explain their habits, group dynamics, and communication. It’s a slower-paced, more observational experience—perfect for photographers, primate lovers, and anyone who wants to truly connect with these fascinating animals in the wild.

While both chimpanzee tracking and gorilla trekking are unforgettable, the experiences are quite different. Chimpanzees are fast-moving, vocal, and often high in the canopy, making for a lively, unpredictable encounter. Mountain gorillas, on the other hand, tend to be more stationary and are usually found in smaller family groups on the forest floor—creating a quieter, more reflective visit. Trekking terrain also differs: gorilla treks can be more strenuous due to steep hills, while chimpanzee trails (especially in Kibale) are generally more moderate. Many travelers choose to do both—for the contrast, the balance, and the full picture of Uganda’s primate magic.

Chimpanzee tracking is possible year-round in Uganda, but the dry seasons—from June to September and December to February—are the most popular. Trails are easier to navigate, and sightings are consistent. The wet seasons (March–May and October–November) bring lush greenery, fewer visitors, and excellent birdwatching—but trails may be muddy and a bit more challenging. Kibale offers reliable tracking in all seasons due to its high chimp population and well-managed system. No matter when you visit, chimpanzee tracking is a highlight of any Ugandan safari—and with the right preparation, the experience will stay with you for life.

For a comfortable trek, pack light, breathable clothing in earth tones, sturdy hiking boots, a hat, sunscreen, and insect repellent. Long sleeves and trousers are helpful for navigating the forest undergrowth. Bring a reusable water bottle, snacks, and a camera (with no flash). Expect a short briefing before your hike, then head into the forest with rangers and trackers. Treks can last from 2–4 hours, depending on the chimp’s location, and once found, you’ll have one hour to observe them. The walk is moderately strenuous, but the reward is powerful—an up-close moment with our closest wild relatives.

While Uganda leads with multiple chimpanzee tracking destinations, Rwanda and Tanzania also offer incredible opportunities to observe wild chimps. In Rwanda, Nyungwe Forest National Park is home to a thriving population of chimpanzees, where guided treks take you through lush montane rainforest alive with birdcalls and primate chatter. In Tanzania, the Gombe Stream and Mahale Mountains national parks are renowned for their chimp research legacy, particularly the pioneering work of Jane Goodall. These parks offer rewarding treks along forested lakeshores and mountain trails. Whether in Uganda, Rwanda, or Tanzania, each chimpanzee encounter reveals something powerful about our shared connection with nature.