Combining Chimpanzee Tracking with Gorilla Trekking in Uganda. Uganda is one of the few countries in the world where you can track both chimpanzees and mountain gorillas in their natural habitats. These two great apes share more than 98% of our DNA, yet they live in distinct ecosystems and display remarkably different behaviors. Combining chimpanzee tracking with gorilla trekking offers travelers a rich and varied primate adventure, giving you a deeper understanding of the forests and wildlife that make Uganda so special. At Kenlink Tours, we design tailored itineraries that bring both experiences together for an unforgettable safari.

Why Combine Chimpanzee Tracking and Gorilla Trekking?

Both activities are life-changing, but they offer different perspectives on primate life. Chimpanzees are energetic, vocal, and often move swiftly through the trees, making the tracking experience lively and dynamic. Gorillas, on the other hand, are more peaceful and spend much of their time feeding and resting, allowing you to observe them at a relaxed pace.

By combining the two, you get to:

• Experience two distinct primate behaviors in one trip.

• Visit different regions of Uganda, each with its own landscapes and cultures.

• Maximize the value of your travel by covering more highlights in fewer days.

Where to Go for Chimpanzee Tracking in Uganda

Uganda offers several prime locations for chimpanzee tracking:

• Kibale National Park – Known as the “Primate Capital of the World,” home to over 1,500 chimpanzees.

• Budongo Forest – Located in Murchison Falls National Park, famous for large chimp communities and big mahogany trees.

• Kyambura Gorge – A scenic valley in Queen Elizabeth National Park with a smaller but unique chimp population.

• Kalinzu Forest Reserve – Affordable and great for travelers looking for a shorter trek.

Kibale National Park is the most popular choice due to its high chimpanzee density and excellent sighting success rates.

Where to Go for Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Gorilla trekking in Uganda takes place in two parks:

• Bwindi Impenetrable National Park – A UNESCO World Heritage Site with over half the world’s remaining mountain gorillas.

• Mgahinga Gorilla National Park – Smaller but equally rewarding, with the Nyakagezi gorilla family known for their friendliness.

Both parks require a gorilla trekking permit, and the experience involves hiking through thick vegetation to reach a habituated gorilla family.

Best Time to Combine the Two Activities

The best time to combine chimpanzee tracking and gorilla trekking is during the dry seasons—June to September and December to February. Trails are more manageable, and forest visibility is better. However, both activities are available year-round, and some travelers enjoy the lush greenery of the wet season despite the more challenging hiking conditions.

How Many Days Do You Need?

To comfortably combine chimpanzee tracking with gorilla trekking, you will need at least 5 to 7 days. This allows time for travel between parks, the tracking activities themselves, and optional extras like game drives or cultural tours. A popular itinerary includes:

1. Arrival in Entebbe or Kampala

2. Transfer to Kibale National Park – Chimpanzee tracking the next day.

3. Drive to Queen Elizabeth National Park – Optional game drive and boat safari.

4. Continue to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park – Gorilla trekking the following day.

5. Return to Kampala or Entebbe for departure.

At Kenlink Tours, we customize the itinerary to fit your schedule, budget, and travel style.

Booking Permits for Both Activities

Both chimpanzee tracking and gorilla trekking require official permits issued by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA):

• Chimpanzee Tracking Permits – From USD 50 to USD 250 depending on the location.

• Gorilla Trekking Permits – USD 800 per person for foreign non-residents.

Permits are limited and sell out quickly, especially in peak season. Booking several months in advance is highly recommended. Kenlink Tours handles all permit reservations for you, ensuring you have confirmed spots for both activities.

Travel Between Tracking Locations

Uganda’s primate tracking destinations are located in different parts of the country, and travel between them can be an adventure in itself. For example:

• Kibale to Bwindi takes about 8 to 9 hours by road, but the route passes through Queen Elizabeth National Park, where you can enjoy a game drive or boat safari.

• Domestic flights are available from Kihihi or Kisoro airstrips to Entebbe for faster travel after your trek.

With Kenlink Tours, we arrange all your transport—whether by comfortable safari vehicle or local flight—making the journey as smooth as the destination.

What to Expect on the Trekking Days

Chimpanzee Tracking:
You start with a briefing from the park rangers, then head into the forest in small groups. Chimpanzees can be high in the canopy or on the ground, and their loud calls often guide the trackers. Once found, you have an hour to observe and photograph them.

Gorilla Trekking:
After a morning briefing, you hike through dense forest and hilly terrain to reach the gorillas. The trek can take anywhere from 30 minutes to 6 hours depending on the group’s location. Spending an hour with a gorilla family is an unforgettable highlight of any African safari.

Preparing for Your Combined Safari

• Wear sturdy hiking boots and light, long-sleeved clothing.

• Carry insect repellent, a rain jacket, and drinking water.

• Be prepared for muddy and steep terrain.

• Respect wildlife and follow ranger instructions at all times.

Why Book with Kenlink Tours

At Kenlink Tours, we offer more than just permit booking—we create complete safari experiences. Here’s why travelers choose us:

• Hassle-Free Permit Booking – We secure your chimpanzee and gorilla permits in advance.

• Custom Itineraries – Trips designed to fit your budget, time, and preferences.

• Experienced Guides – Knowledgeable, friendly guides to enhance your trekking experience.

• Comfortable Transport – Reliable vehicles and professional drivers.

• 24/7 Support – Assistance before, during, and after your trip.