Uganda is an incredible destination for primate lovers, offering exceptional opportunities to observe chimpanzees in their natural environment. With its lush forests and biodiverse national parks, Uganda is not only home to mountain gorillas but also to thousands of wild chimpanzees. Chimpanzee trekking is a soul-stirring experience that allows you to encounter one of our closest relatives in the wild—these remarkable creatures share about 97.3% of their DNA with humans. Watching them interact, communicate, and forage in their forest homes is both humbling and unforgettable. Here are the best places to see chimpanzees in Uganda:

Kibale Forest National Park – The Primate Capital of East Africa

Kibale Forest National Park is Uganda’s premier destination for chimpanzee trekking and is often referred to as the “Primate Capital of the World.” Located in western Uganda near Fort Portal, Kibale is home to over 1,500 chimpanzees and 12 other primate species, including red colobus, L’Hoest’s monkeys, and grey-cheeked mangabeys. The park offers daily guided chimpanzee tracking experiences, where visitors follow trained guides deep into the forest to locate habituated chimpanzee families. Treks typically last a few hours, depending on the chimpanzees’ movements, and sightings are quite reliable. For a more immersive encounter, Kibale also offers a Chimpanzee Habituation Experience (CHEX), which allows you to spend an extended period with a group of chimpanzees that is undergoing the habituation process.

Budongo Forest Reserve – A Sanctuary within Murchison Falls Conservation Area

Budongo Forest Reserve is another fantastic spot for chimpanzee trekking in Uganda. Located within the greater Murchison Falls Conservation Area, Budongo is the largest natural forest in the country and is known for its towering mahogany and ironwood trees. The forest hosts a healthy population of chimpanzees and is managed by the Jane Goodall Institute in collaboration with the Uganda Wildlife Authority. Visitors can opt for standard chimpanzee tracking or participate in the habituation experience, where they can spend more time observing chimpanzees as they go about their day. The dense forest, rich biodiversity, and the soundscape of birds and monkeys make every trek here a deeply immersive nature experience.

Kyambura Gorge – The Hidden Valley of Apes in Queen Elizabeth National Park

Nestled within Queen Elizabeth National Park, Kyambura Gorge—often called the “Valley of Apes”—offers a unique setting for chimpanzee tracking. This dramatic, sunken forest is a striking contrast to the surrounding savannah and is home to a small but habituated community of chimpanzees. While sightings here are not as guaranteed as in Kibale or Budongo, the experience of trekking through this lush, 100-meter-deep gorge is thrilling in itself. The gorge is also rich in birdlife and other primates, and the guided treks provide valuable insight into the ecology and conservation challenges of the area.

Semliki Wildlife Reserve – Remote and Wild

For those looking for a quieter and more off-the-beaten-path experience, Semliki Wildlife Reserve in western Uganda offers a rare opportunity to track chimpanzees in a remote setting. This reserve, part of the larger Toro-Semuliki landscape, features riverine forests, savannahs, and wetlands. The chimpanzee population here is less habituated, making encounters more unpredictable but equally rewarding. The pristine, untouched feel of the reserve makes it ideal for travelers who crave solitude and close contact with unspoiled nature.

Toro-Semuliki Wildlife Reserve – A Diverse Ecosystem

Also located in western Uganda, Toro-Semuliki Wildlife Reserve is another promising area for chimpanzee trekking. The reserve is rich in wildlife and offers diverse trekking trails that allow visitors to explore various habitats while searching for chimpanzees. Though less visited than Kibale or Budongo, the reserve’s quieter trails and beautiful scenery add to the charm of the experience. Birdwatching here is exceptional, with hundreds of species recorded, making it an excellent choice for wildlife enthusiasts.

Kalinzu Forest Reserve – An Accessible and Rewarding Alternative

Situated near Queen Elizabeth National Park, Kalinzu Forest Reserve is a convenient and less crowded alternative for chimpanzee trekking. The reserve is home to over 300 chimpanzees, with several habituated groups available for tracking. Kalinzu is also known for its rich biodiversity, including numerous bird species, butterflies, and other primates. The forest trails offer breathtaking views of the Rift Valley and are an excellent choice for those staying near Queen Elizabeth National Park who wish to add a primate experience to their safari itinerary.

Planning Your Chimpanzee Trekking Experience

To enjoy chimpanzee trekking in Uganda, it is essential to secure the appropriate permits in advance, especially during peak travel seasons. Permits are limited and issued by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA), with prices varying depending on the trekking location. You can also buy chimpanzee trekking permits through licensed Tour Operator like Kenlink Tours. Most treks require a moderate level of physical fitness, as the terrain can be hilly and forested. Hiring a porter is also recommended, not just for assistance but as a way to support local communities. Always follow the guidance of park rangers and guides to ensure your visit is safe and does not disrupt the chimpanzees’ natural behavior.

Uganda offers a range of unforgettable chimpanzee trekking experiences, each with its own unique setting and atmosphere. Whether you choose the well-established trails of Kibale or the hidden gems of Semliki, meeting these soulful beings in their natural environment will leave a lasting impression and a deeper appreciation for wildlife conservation.