kyambura gorge

An unforgettable primate tracking experience with Safari 2 Gorilla Tours

Tucked away in the eastern corner of Queen Elizabeth National Park lies a natural wonder that many travelers call the “Valley of Apes” — Kyambura Gorge. This lush, forested chasm carves dramatically through the savannah, offering a stunning contrast of ecosystems and one of the best off-the-beaten-path experiences in Uganda.

At Safari 2 Gorilla Tours, we invite you to explore this enchanting gorge where wildlife thrives in a hidden world few ever see.

Why Visit Kyambura Gorge?

1. Chimpanzee Tracking in a Natural Theater

Kyambura Gorge is one of the top destinations for chimpanzee tracking in Uganda. The gorge shelters a small, isolated population of chimpanzees, offering intimate encounters that are rare in larger parks. With experienced guides and trackers, you’ll venture into the gorge’s thick canopy to listen for hoots, rustles, and the telltale drumming on tree trunks that signal chimp activity.

2. A Unique Ecosystem

While Queen Elizabeth National Park is known for open savannahs, Kyambura Gorge is a primordial rainforest slashed into the landscape. Inside, you’ll find not only chimpanzees, but also red-tailed monkeys, black-and-white colobus, giant forest hogs, and over 200 bird species including the elusive African finfoot.

3. Dramatic Scenery

The gorge drops over 100 meters deep and winds for about 11 kilometers. As you descend into the misty forest, it feels as though you’re stepping into another world — a green cathedral of vines, moss-covered trees, and gurgling rivers. It’s a paradise for photographers, birders, and anyone who craves immersive nature.

More Activities in Queen Elizabeth National Park

Your Kyambura Gorge adventure can easily be combined with the diverse safari experiences Queen Elizabeth National Park is famous for:

1. Game Drives in Kasenyi Plains

Spot lions, elephants, buffaloes, warthogs, Uganda kobs, and more in the wide-open Kasenyi savannahs. Early morning and evening drives are best for predator sightings.

2. Boat Safari on the Kazinga Channel

Cruise along the Kazinga Channel, a natural waterway linking Lake Edward and Lake George. This is one of Africa’s best wildlife boat trips, offering close-up views of hippos, crocodiles, elephants, buffaloes, and an impressive array of birds.

3. Tree-Climbing Lions in Ishasha Sector

The southern Ishasha sector is renowned for its rare tree-climbing lions, often spotted lounging in fig and acacia trees. This is a must-see spectacle for wildlife photographers and big cat enthusiasts.

4. Birdwatching Paradise

With over 600 recorded bird species, Queen Elizabeth is one of Africa’s top birding destinations. From shoebills in the wetlands to flamingos on crater lakes, birders will be in heaven.

5. Crater Lake Exploration

Tour the stunning Katwe explosion craters and learn about the centuries-old salt mining tradition at Lake Katwe. The views from the crater rim are among the most scenic in Uganda.

Extend Your Safari Experience

Looking to see more of Uganda? Safari 2 Gorilla Tours offers seamless trip extensions to other top destinations:

1. Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Just a few hours from Queen Elizabeth, Bwindi offers life-changing encounters with endangered mountain gorillas. Combine primate tracking in Kyambura with gorilla trekking for the ultimate Uganda safari.

2. Kibale Forest National Park

Known as the primate capital of the world, Kibale offers exceptional chimpanzee tracking and birding. You can visit en route to or from Queen Elizabeth National Park.

3. Lake Bunyonyi Retreat

After your safari, unwind by the tranquil waters of Lake Bunyonyi. Canoe rides, hiking, and relaxing lakeside lodges make it a perfect way to end your journey.

4. Murchison Falls National Park

Head north to witness the dramatic Murchison Falls, where the Nile explodes through a narrow gorge. This park offers spectacular game drives and river safaris.

Best Time to Visit

Kyambura Gorge and Queen Elizabeth National Park are open year-round, but the dry seasons (June–August and December–February) provide the best conditions for tracking and wildlife viewing.

Travel with Purpose

At Safari 2 Gorilla Tours, we’re committed to sustainable tourism that supports conservation and local communities. Your visit helps protect Kyambura Gorge’s unique wildlife and contributes to community-based tourism initiatives.

Ready to explore Uganda’s most diverse safari destination?

Click here to book your custom Queen Elizabeth & Kyambura adventure with Safari 2 Gorilla Tours today.