Chimpanzee Trekking in Uganda and Rwanda
Up Close with Our Wild Cousins: Chimpanzee Trekking in Uganda & Rwanda
If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to come face-to-face with a creature that shares nearly 98% of our DNA, chimpanzee trekking in Uganda and Rwanda is an experience that will linger in your soul long after the jungle mud has washed away.
At Safari 2 Gorilla Tours, we take pride in guiding travelers through the lush, untamed forests of East Africa—where the calls of wild chimpanzees echo through the canopy, and the bond between humans and nature is felt with every step.
Why Trek for Chimps?
While gorilla trekking often takes the spotlight, chimpanzee trekking is equally thrilling—and far more dynamic. Chimps are incredibly social, fast-moving, and unpredictable. You may find them grooming each other on the forest floor, swinging effortlessly through the trees, or communicating with calls that reverberate like drums in the distance.
Chimpanzee Trekking in Uganda
Uganda is home to some of Africa’s best chimpanzee trekking destinations:
- Kibale National Park: Known as the “Primate Capital of the World,” Kibale boasts over 1,500 chimps and 12 other primate species. Trekking here means you’re almost guaranteed a close encounter.
- Kyambura Gorge (Queen Elizabeth National Park): Nicknamed the “Valley of Apes,” this sunken tropical forest offers a dramatic backdrop for your trek—and a chance to see a small, isolated chimp community in the wild.
- Budongo Forest (Murchison Falls National Park): Located in the northern region of Uganda, Budongo is home to a well-habituated chimp population. It’s perfect for combining primate tracking with a classic savannah safari.
- Bugoma Forest: A hidden gem within the Albertine Rift Valley, Bugoma Forest is rich in biodiversity and home to over 600 chimpanzees. The serene, less-crowded trails here offer a more personal and off-the-beaten-path trekking experience.
- Kalinzu Forest: Situated near Queen Elizabeth National Park, Kalinzu Forest Reserve is another excellent chimp trekking spot. With a habituated group of about 300 chimpanzees, Kalinzu offers a more affordable and rewarding alternative to the more frequented parks. The forest is also a haven for birds and medicinal plants, making the trek both educational and thrilling.
Chimpanzee Trekking in Rwanda
Rwanda may be better known for gorillas, but its chimpanzee trekking is equally captivating, especially in these two remarkable rainforests:
- Nyungwe National Park: One of Africa’s oldest rainforests, Nyungwe is home to a habituated chimpanzee community and 13 other primate species. Treks can be steep and misty, but the rewards are immense—from thrilling chimp encounters to birdwatching, waterfalls, and canopy walks.
- Gishwati-Mukura National Park: Rwanda’s newest and smallest national park is fast gaining attention for its chimpanzee population. Located in the northwestern part of the country, Gishwati-Mukura offers a more intimate trekking experience with fewer visitors and a growing focus on reforestation and conservation. Chimps here share the forest with golden monkeys, L’Hoest’s monkeys, and countless bird species, making it a fantastic destination for eco-tourism
What to Expect on the Trek
- Early Mornings: Trekking typically starts at dawn, when chimps are most active.
- Expert Guides: local rangers guides will help track the chimps using vocalizations, nests, and movement patterns.
- 1 Hour with the Chimps: Once located, you’ll have one magical hour to observe their behavior, snap photos, and simply watch in awe.
- Moderate Hiking: Trek difficulty varies depending on terrain and the chimps’ location, but it often involves muddy paths, steep climbs, and dense forest.
What to Pack
- Sturdy hiking boots
- Long trousers and sleeves (for protection against bugs and thorns)
- Rain gear (it is the rainforest, after all!)
- A good camera with zoom lens
- Reusable water bottle and snacks
Why Choose Safari 2 Gorilla Tours?
Our experienced guides, personalized itineraries, and passion for conservation ensure that your chimpanzee trekking experience is safe, sustainable, and unforgettable. Whether you want to combine chimp trekking with gorilla tracking, cultural tours, or classic safaris—we’ve got you covered.
Click here to contact us today and start planning your journey into the wild heart of East Africa—with Safari 2 Gorilla Tours by your side.