Chimpanzee Trekking in Uganda: Kibale or Kyambura?

Chimpanzee Trekking in Uganda: Kibale or Kyambura?

If you’re planning a chimpanzee trekking adventure in Uganda, you’re likely torn between two incredible destinations—Kibale Forest National Park and Kyambura Gorge in Queen Elizabeth National Park. Both offer thrilling experiences with high chances of seeing chimpanzees, but they differ in cost, setting, and overall experience.

Let’s break down the differences and help you decide which is the best for your safari.

Kibale Forest National Park: Uganda’s Top Chimpanzee Trekking Destination

Kibale Forest is often considered the best place for chimpanzee trekking in Uganda. The park is home to the country’s largest population of chimpanzees—estimated at over 1,500 individuals—and boasts a total of 13 primate species, including:

• Red-tailed monkeys

• Black-and-white colobus monkeys

• Olive baboons

• Bush babies

• Pottos

Beyond primates, Kibale is also a top birding destination with over 335 bird species recorded.

Why Choose Kibale for Chimp Trekking?

• High chimpanzee encounter rate (over 95%)

• Larger habituated chimp groups

• Dense tropical rainforest setting with rich biodiversity

• Ideal for combining chimp trekking with birding and nature walks

Chimpanzee Trekking Permits in Kibale

Permits cost $250 per person per trek, and each trek includes:

• A professional guide and ranger

• A briefing before the trek

• One hour of close-up viewing once chimpanzees are found
  There are two sessions per day:

• Morning (starts at 8:00 AM)

• Afternoon (starts at 2:00 PM)

Chimpanzee Trekking in Kyambura Gorge: A Budget-Friendly Alternative

Located in Queen Elizabeth National Park, Kyambura Gorge offers a more affordable chimpanzee trekking experience while still maintaining high success rates of up to 95% for sightings.

Nicknamed the “Valley of Apes,” Kyambura’s lush underground forest is strikingly beautiful and adds a unique, dramatic backdrop to your trek.

Why Trek Chimpanzees in Kyambura Gorge?

• Lower permit cost: only $100 per person

• Ideal for budget-conscious travelers

• Easier to combine with classic wildlife safaris in Queen Elizabeth National Park

• Offers a high chance of spotting other wildlife, including hippos, monkeys, and colorful birds

Just like in Kibale, chimpanzee trekking in Kyambura happens twice daily—morning and afternoon sessions—with experienced guides and Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) rangers leading your adventure.

What to Expect During the Chimpanzee Trek

Trekking in both Kibale and Kyambura begins with a briefing at the park headquarters, followed by grouping and assignment of guides. The trek usually lasts 3 to 4 hours, depending on the location and movement of the chimpanzees.

Once the chimps are found, you’ll spend one hour observing them in their natural habitat—feeding, grooming, playing, and interacting. These moments offer incredible photo opportunities and insights into their social behavior.

Even beyond chimpanzees, you may encounter other primates, reptiles, birds, and even forest mammals during the trek.

When is the Best Time to Go Chimpanzee Trekking in Uganda?

The best time for chimpanzee trekking in Kibale Forest and Kyambura Gorge is during Uganda’s dry seasons:

• June to October

• December to March

During these months, forest trails are drier and more accessible, and the vegetation is less dense—making it easier to spot and photograph chimpanzees.

Wet Season (April, May, November):

While trekking is still possible and successful, trails may be slippery and the forest thicker. On the plus side, chimpanzees are easier to find as food is more abundant and they don’t move far.

Regardless of the season, chimpanzee trekking is a year-round activity in Uganda, with well-trained guides and nearly guaranteed sightings.

How to Reach Kyambura Gorge for Chimpanzee Trekking

Kyambura Gorge, located in Queen Elizabeth National Park, is one of the most scenic locations for chimpanzee trekking in Uganda. Whether you’re traveling by road or air, here’s how you can access this beautiful destination.

Getting to Kyambura Gorge by Road

Kyambura Gorge is easily accessible from Kampala or Entebbe via two main routes:

• Via Fort Portal or

• Via Bushenyi through Mbarara

The drive typically takes 6 to 7 hours. If you’re already near Kasese, it’s about a 1 to 2-hour drive to Kyambura Gorge along the well-maintained roads of the safari circuit.

Getting to Kyambura Gorge by Air

For a quicker and more comfortable option, you can take a domestic flight from Entebbe International Airport or Kampala’s Kajjansi Airstrip to Kasese Airstrip. From there, it’s a short transfer to Kyambura Gorge. Flights are operated by Aerolink and Fly Uganda, offering both scheduled and chartered options. Make sure to arrange airport-to-gorge transfers with your tour operator in advance.

How to Get to Kibale Forest National Park for Chimpanzee Trekking

Kibale Forest National Park is Uganda’s top chimpanzee trekking destination, and getting there is relatively easy by both road and air.

By Road

From Kampala or Entebbe, drive to Fort Portal via Mubende. This journey takes about 4 to 5 hours. Alternatively, you can travel through the Kampala–Mbarara–Kasese route, then connect to Kibale with an additional 1 to 2-hour drive from Kasese.

By Air

You can also fly into Kasese Airstrip from Entebbe International Airport or Kajjansi Airfield. From Kasese, it’s a short road transfer to Kibale Forest. Domestic carriers like Aerolink and Fly Uganda offer reliable scheduled and charter flights. Be sure to coordinate transfers with your safari operator for a smooth journey.

Where to Stay During Chimpanzee Trekking in Kyambura Gorge

Kyambura Gorge offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets. Whether you’re looking for budget-friendly lodges or luxury stays, there’s something for every traveler.

Budget Lodges (USD $90–$100 per person, per night)

• Pumba Safari Lodge

• Elephant Hab Lodge

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

• Buffalo Safari Lodge

• Others available based on availability and preference

Luxury Lodges (USD $250–$700 per person, per night)

• Kyambura Gorge Lodge

• Katara Lodge

• Mazike Lodge

Let us know your travel preferences and we’ll help you book the perfect stay.

Where to Stay for Chimpanzee Trekking in Kibale Forest National Park

Kibale Forest is surrounded by excellent accommodation options ranging from simple guesthouses to luxurious jungle retreats. Here’s a quick guide to help you choose.

Budget Lodges (USD $90–$100 per person, per night)

• Chimpanzee Forest Guest House

• Isunga Lodge

• Rwenzori View Guest House

• Mountains of the Moon Hotel

• Kibale Homestay

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

• Kibale Forest Camp

• Turaco Treetops Lodge

• Prime Lodge Kibale

Luxury Lodges (USD $250–$700 per person, per night)

• Ndali Lodge

• Crater Safari Lodge

• Papaya Lake Lodge

• Kyaninga Lodge

We’ll be happy to assist with bookings based on your budget and preferences.

Why Book Your Chimpanzee Trekking Safari with Trek Africa Expeditions?

At Trek Africa Expeditions, we organize unforgettable and eco-friendly primate tracking experiences across Uganda and Rwanda. With years of expertise and a deep commitment to conservation and community empowerment, we go beyond just organizing trips—we create meaningful safari adventures.

Why choose us?

• Highly rated on TripAdvisor

• Seamless booking for chimpanzee and gorilla trekking permits

• Experienced local guides and customized itineraries

• Responsible tourism practices that support local communities

• Safaris across Uganda, Rwanda, Kenya, Tanzania, Botswana, and Namibia

We offer combined packages featuring chimpanzee trekking, gorilla trekking, Big Five safaris, cultural encounters, boat cruises, and mountain hiking—all designed to give you a complete African safari experience.