Permits can be booked through the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) or trusted tour operators like Kenlink Tours. Prices are subject to change, so it’s best to confirm in advance. If you are going to do chimpanzee tracking in Kyambura Gorge, you need a valid park entrance ticket.
Combining Chimpanzee Tracking in Kyambura with Game Drive in Queen Elizabeth National Park
Combining chimpanzee tracking in Kyambura Gorge with a game drive in Queen Elizabeth National Park offers a diverse and thrilling wildlife experience. Start your day with an early morning chimpanzee trek in Kyambura Gorge, often called the “Valley of Apes.” This lush, steep gorge is home to a small but fascinating troop of chimpanzees. The guided trek not only offers a chance to observe these intelligent primates in their natural habitat but also immerses you in a unique ecosystem rich with birds, monkeys, and forest flora.
After the tracking adventure, head into the savannah plains of Queen Elizabeth National Park for a classic game drive. The park is renowned for its rich biodiversity, including elephants, buffaloes, lions (including the famous tree-climbing lions of Ishasha), leopards, and various antelope species. The Kasenyi Plains and Mweya Peninsula are particularly rewarding for wildlife viewing.
This combination of activities provides a well-rounded safari experience—encountering both forest-dwelling primates and iconic African big game in one trip. It’s ideal for travelers seeking variety and depth in a single destination. For a full experience, consider adding a boat safari on the Kazinga Channel to spot hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of waterbirds
Best time to go for Chimpanzee Tracking in Kyambura Gorge.
The best time to go for chimpanzee tracking in Kyambura Gorge, located in Uganda’s Queen Elizabeth National Park, is during the dry seasons—from June to September and December to February. These months offer favorable weather conditions, with less rainfall, making the forest trails easier to navigate. Wildlife viewing is generally more rewarding in the dry season as animals tend to gather near water sources, and the chimpanzees are easier to locate.
Chimpanzees in Kyambura Gorge are semi-habituated, meaning they may be more elusive compared to other locations, but dry conditions improve visibility and tracking success. Early morning is the ideal time for the trek, as chimps are most active then, foraging and socializing.
Although the rainy season (March to May and October to November) brings lush scenery and fewer tourists, the trails can become slippery and challenging. However, for those seeking a more intimate experience and are prepared for unpredictable weather, this can also be a rewarding time.
