Chimpanzee tracking in Kibale Forest National Park: Kibale Forest National Park is the most magnificent of Uganda’s tropical forests and one of the most rewarding protected areas to explore. The national park is situated in the western part of the country, covering an area of about 795 kilometers, It is a pristine and diverse destination known for its large population of chimpanzees. chimpanzees in Kibale Forest National Park offer the unique opportunity to observe these intelligent and social primates in their natural habitat, making it a must-visit for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Kibale Forest National Park is home to an estimated 1000 chimpanzees, making it one of the best places in East Africa to see these fascinating creatures up close. Chimpanzee tracking experience in Kibale Forest National Park is led by experienced guides who are knowledgeable about the behavior and habits of the chimpanzees, ensuring a safe and informative trekking experience.
During a chimpanzee tracking excursion, you will have to chance of encounter other fascinating creatures that dwell in the park’s forest such as primates like red-tailed monkeys, black and white colobus monkeys, the mona monkey, and the vervet monkey, among other monkey species; mammal species such as forest elephants, buffaloes, bushbucks, sitatungas, bushpigs, giant forest hogs, common warthogs; and colorful birds such as the African Emerald Cuckoo, African Green Pigeon, and olive long-tailed cuckoo, Wester tinkerbird, grey parrot, and ground thrush. Upon encountering these captivating creatures in their natural environment, you will be allowed an hour of interaction with these captivating primates while observing their daily activities such as feeding, breastfeeding, grooming, swinging, playing tactics and carrying their young one, among other things. the chimp’s vocalizations, social interaction and agility in the trees are truly captivating to observe, providing a glimpse into the complex and dynamic lives of these primates
Chimpanzee tracking
In addition to the chimpanzees, Kibale Forest National Park is also home to a wide variety of other wildlife including 12 different primates such as red colobus monkeys, black and white colobus monkeys and L’Hoest’s monkeys, red-tailed monkeys, baboons, blue monkeys, grey-cheeked mangabey, demidoff galago, vervet monkeys, Uganda red colobus, pottos, patas monkeys, and Uganda mangabey, among others. Bird watchers will also be delighted by the park’s diverse bird population, with over 375 species recorded within the borders such as the Dusky Crimsonwing, Red-faced Woodland Warbler, Black-capped Apalis, Collared Apalis, Blue-headed and Purple-breasted Sunbirds. Also, Kibale Park boasts 4 endemic bird species counting the Blue-headed Bee-eater, Cassin’s Spinetail, Masked Apalis, and the Nahan’s Francolin.
Aside from the wildlife viewing opportunities, Kibale Forest National Park boats lush greenery, towering trees and beautiful landscapes that create a picturesque backdrop for visitors. the park is also known for its rich cultural heritage, with nearby communities offering cultural experiences and interactions that provide insight into the local way of life.
Chimpanzee tracking in Kibale Forest National Park is not just a thrilling wildlife experience but also a valuable conservation initiative. the park plays a significant role in protecting the endangered chimpanzee population and their habitat, as well as supporting local communities through sustainable tourism practices and community-based conservation efforts
How much is the chimpanzee tracking permit in Kibale Forest National Park?
A chimpanzee tracking permit is a legal document that authorizes persons over 12 years old to trek to see these endangered chimpanzees in their natural habitat Chimpanzee permits cost $250 per person for foreign non-residents, $ 200 per person for foreign residents and UGX 180,000 per person for nationals from East Africa. Visitors are recommended to book at least three or four months in advance, either directly from the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) or through a trusted tour operator like Achieve Global Safari.
How can I acquire a chimpanzee tracking permit For Kibale Forest National Park?
Chimpanzee tracking permits for Kibale Forest National Park are $ 250 per person. You can buy the permits from the Uganda Wildlife Authority. Their headquarters is in Kampala or you can get a permit from an authorized agent. Another option may be a better choice through a travel agency that will often include the permit in your travel/tour package like us at Achieve Global Safari. And permits are recommended to book in advance.
What is the best time to go for chimpanzee tracking in Kibale Forest National Park?
The best time to go chimpanzee tracking in Kibale Forest National Park is during the dry season, which typically runs from June to September and December to February. during these months, the weather is more predictable, with less rainfall and clear skies, making it easier to navigate the dense forest and spot the chimpanzees swinging through the trees. Additionally, the dry seasons are when the chimpanzees are, more active and likely to be out and about, making them easier to track and observe. The lush green vegetation during this time also provides the perfect backdrop for your safari experience, with ample opportunities for stunning photographs
However, it’s important to note that chimpanzee tracking is available year-round in the park. So, you can still have a rewarding experience during the wet seasons. The wet season, which runs from March to May and then October to November, brings lush foliage and fewer crowds, offering a more intimate and peaceful encounter with the chimpanzees.
Where to stay while on a chimpanzee tracking in Kibale Forest National Park
Kibale Forest National Park has a number of stunning safari accommodation options ranging from budget to mid-range and luxury levels. All these accommodation facilities offer the best services to visitors. Such accommodations include Tinka’s Homestead, Jungle Lodge Kibale National Park, Primate Lodge in Kibale, Isunga Lodge, Kibale Forest Camp, Turaco Treetops, Kyaninga Lodge, Chimpundu Lodge, Chimpanzee Forest Lodge, Chimpanzee Capital Safari Lodge, Kibale Guest Cottages, and Kibale Forest Lodge, among others.
Besides chimpanzee tracking, Kibale Forest National Park also offers other fascinating activities to its visitors while on a Uganda safari in the park, tourists on a chimpanzee tracking in the park can also join a number of activities such as chimpanzee habituation experience, primates tracking, forest natures walk children scouts adventurous activities, birding and cultural tours among others
Contact our trusted tour operators for more information and inquiries about Uganda chimpanzee tracking in Kibale Forest National Park. Book with our tours and travel companies, such as Achieve Global Safaris, who offer the best tour packages while on your safari in Uganda.