Chimpanzee Trekking in Kibale vs. Nyungwe Forest

Chimpanzee Trekking in Kibale vs. Nyungwe Forest: What’s the Difference?

Planning a chimpanzee trekking adventure and torn between Kibale Forest National Park in Uganda and Nyungwe Forest National Park in Rwanda? The truth is, both parks offer an incredible chance to see chimpanzees in their natural habitat with about 95% success rate. But there are a few key differences that may help you choose the best destination for your trek.

Where Can You See More Chimpanzees?

Kibale Forest National Park is known as the “Primate Capital of the World” and is home to the largest population of chimpanzees in Uganda, estimated at over 1,500 individuals. With 13 primate species in total—including red colobus monkeys, baboons, and bush babies—Kibale offers more primate diversity than any other forest in East Africa.

Nyungwe Forest National Park, on the other hand, is one of the oldest rainforests in Africa, rich in biodiversity and stunning in scenery. It’s home to over 500 chimpanzees and 12 other primate species, including the endemic L’Hoest’s monkey, a species only found in the Albertine Rift region.

Cost of Chimpanzee Trekking in Kibale vs. Nyungwe

The cost of chimpanzee trekking is quite similar in both parks:

• Kibale Forest National Park (Uganda):

  • Chimpanzee trekking permit: $250 per person

  • Optional: Chimpanzee habituation experience – $300 per person

• Nyungwe Forest National Park (Rwanda):

  • Chimpanzee trekking permit: $150

  • Park entrance fee: $100

  • Total: $250 per person

In both parks, permits can be booked directly through the respective wildlife authorities—Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) for Kibale and Rwanda Development Board (RDB) for Nyungwe—or more conveniently through a licensed tour operator.

What to Expect During the Trek

Both experiences begin with a pre-trek briefing early in the morning. Visitors are split into small groups and guided into the forest by experienced rangers. The trek usually lasts 2 to 4 hours, depending on the location of the chimps that day. Once you locate them, you’ll spend one unforgettable hour observing their behaviors—feeding, grooming, and playing in the treetops.

Along the way, you’ll likely spot other forest creatures, including monkeys, birds, and possibly small mammals.

Best Time to Go Chimpanzee Trekking

The best time for chimpanzee trekking in both Kibale and Nyungwe is during the dry seasons:

• June to October

• December to March

During these months, the forest trails are easier to navigate, and the vegetation is less dense—perfect conditions for trekking and photography.

In the rainy months (April, May, and November), trails can be muddy and slippery, and visibility might be lower due to overgrown vegetation. However, chimps tend to stay closer to their core feeding areas during this time, which can make the trek shorter.

Trekking is available year-round, and both parks maintain a high success rate (95–99%) for chimp sightings.

Time Spent with Chimpanzees

Whether you trek in Kibale or Nyungwe, the standard permit allows you one hour with the chimpanzees. However, Kibale offers a unique “Chimpanzee Habituation Experience,” where you can spend up to 4 hours with a semi-habituated group. This immersive experience involves joining researchers and trackers as they follow the chimps through their daily routines.

Permit costs for chimpanzee habituation in Kibale (valid from July 2024 to June 2026):

• $300 for foreign non-residents

• $250 for foreign residents

• UGX 250,000 for East African citizens

How to Get to Kibale Forest National Park for Chimpanzee Trekking

By Road

Kibale Forest National Park is easily accessible by road from Uganda’s major towns and cities. The most common route is via the main safari circuit from Entebbe or Kampala to Fort Portal, which takes approximately 4–5 hours. Alternatively, you can take the Kampala–Mbarara–Kasese highway, then connect to Kibale with a 1–2 hour drive from Kasese.

By Air

For a faster and more scenic option, you can fly from Entebbe International Airport or Kajjansi Airfield (Kampala) to Kasese Airstrip, which is the nearest airstrip to Kibale. Domestic flights are operated by Aerolink Uganda and Fly Uganda, offering both scheduled and chartered flights. From Kasese, your tour operator will arrange a road transfer to the park, usually around 1.5 hours.

How to Get to Nyungwe Forest National Park for Chimpanzee Trekking

By Road

Nyungwe Forest National Park is located in southwestern Rwanda and can be reached by road from Kigali via the Kigali–Karongi–Nyungwe route, a scenic drive that takes about 5–6 hours. Another route is via Kigali to Gisenyi, and from there, you connect to Nyungwe through Kibuye, with an additional 1–2 hour drive into the park.

By Air

The closest airport to Nyungwe is Kamembe Airport (Rusizi Airport), located just 55 km (34 miles) from the park. You can take a domestic flight from Kigali International Airport with RwandAir or other local airlines. Your tour operator will organize a comfortable transfer from Kamembe to your lodge near Nyungwe Forest.

Where to Stay During Chimpanzee Trekking in Kibale Forest

Kibale Forest offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets. Whether you’re looking for comfort on a budget or a luxury jungle escape, there’s something for everyone.

Budget Lodges (USD 90–100 per person/night)

• Chimpanzee Forest Guest House

• Isunga Lodge

• Mountains of the Moon Hotel

• Rwenzori View Guest House

• Kibale Homestay

Mid-Range Lodges (USD 150–200 per person/night)

• Kibale Forest Camp

• Turaco Treetops

• Primate Lodge Kibale

Luxury Lodges (USD 250–700 per person/night)

• Ndali Lodge

• Crater Safari Lodge

• Papaya Lake Lodge

• Kyaninga Lodge

Where to Stay During Chimpanzee Trekking in Nyungwe Forest

Nyungwe Forest also boasts a range of accommodations, from affordable guesthouses to high-end rainforest lodges. All options are located near the park or within easy access to the trekking trailheads.

Budget Lodges (USD 90–100 per person/night)

• Nyungwe Guest House

• Gisakura Guest House

• Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel (also considered mid-range)

Mid-Range Lodges (USD 150–200 per person/night)

• Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel

Luxury Lodges (USD 500–1000 per person/night)

• One&Only Nyungwe House – a five-star luxury lodge offering exclusive comfort and prime forest views.

Why Book Your Chimpanzee Trek with Us

At Trek Africa Expeditions, we organize customized chimpanzee trekking safaris in Uganda and Rwanda. Whether you choose Kibale Forest or Nyungwe Forest, we ensure every detail of your safari is thoughtfully planned.

• Fast, personalized service – Our dedicated travel consultants respond within 30 minutes of your inquiry.

• Expert advice – We’ll guide you through the planning process and answer all your questions.

• Pre-booked permits and accommodation – We secure everything in advance to avoid last-minute stress.

• Multilingual, professional guides – Depending on your preferences, we’ll match you with knowledgeable guides who speak your language.

Let us help you create a memorable and seamless chimpanzee trekking experience. Contact us today to start planning your Uganda or Rwanda primate safari.