Chimpanzee tracking

What it is

A guided forest walk to find a chimpanzee community that is used to people, then one hour watching them. Chimps move fast, call loudly and spend time both in the trees and on the ground. Kibale has 13 kinds of primates in total.

Where in Uganda

Kibale National Park (Kanyanchu), near Fort Portal. Kyambura Gorge in Queen Elizabeth National Park, a sunken river forest where sightings are less certain.

What to expect

About 3 to 4 hours in total, with one hour with the chimps. You walk in a small group with a UWA ranger.

Activity level

Level 3, Moderate. Kibale’s trails are mostly flat but muddy, with roots and vines, and you may need to walk fast to keep up. Kyambura has a steep path into the gorge.

Good to know

• Minimum age 12 (UWA tariff rules).
• No tracking with a cold or other illness. Keep at least 10 metres away, and never touch or feed the chimps.
• If a chimp charges in display, stand still and follow the ranger.
• Bring boots, long trousers tucked into socks, a rain jacket and water.

Price (UWA permit, per person, to 31 December 2026): Kibale USD 250 FNR, USD 200 FR, UGX 180,000 EAC. Kyambura USD 100 FNR, USD 80 FR, UGX 50,000 EAC. Low season (April, May, November): USD 200 FNR, USD 150 FR. UWA requires full payment at booking. New UWA prices start on 1 January 2027.