Can I trek chimpanzees twice in Kibale National Park?
Kibale National Park, nestled in the picturesque southwest region of Uganda within the Fort Portal district, sprawls across a vast expanse of 774 square kilometers. Its establishment as a protected area was primarily motivated by the need to safeguard the rich biodiversity that thrives within its borders. Kibale National Park serves as a sanctuary for a diverse array of species, ranging from the captivating primates to a myriad of avian, insect, and reptilian inhabitants.
At the heart of Kibale’s natural wonders lies a remarkable population of chimpanzees, which stands at an impressive figure of over 1,500 individuals. This staggering number cements Kibale’s status as the largest chimpanzee habitat in Uganda. However, this park is not limited to the charismatic chimpanzees alone; it boasts an extensive collection of other primate species, each with its unique charm. Among these are the striking blue monkeys, the enchanting red-tailed monkeys, the lively vervet monkeys, the elegant black and white colobus monkeys, and the playful olive baboons.
One of the most coveted experiences that Kibale National Park offers to visitors is the opportunity to trek these chimpanzees in their natural habitat. This thrilling adventure allows you to immerse yourself in the enchanting world of these intelligent and sociable primates. The lush, verdant forests of Kibale provide a picturesque backdrop for your trekking expedition, offering a chance to witness not only the chimpanzees but also the remarkable flora and fauna that thrive in this pristine environment.
For those eager to maximize their chimpanzee encounters, the good news is that it is indeed possible to trek chimpanzees twice in Kibale National Park. The park authorities have made provisions for multiple trekking opportunities, allowing you to deepen your connection with these incredible creatures and increase your chances of witnessing their fascinating behaviors.
Trekking chimpanzees in Kibale twice is possible when you book chimpanzee permits for two or more days. One is allowed to book as many chimpanzees permits as long as there is availability. For those interested in trekking chimpanzees in Kibale more than once or twice, please get in touch with us; we will advise accordingly.
Chimpanzee trekking
One of the most coveted experiences that Kibale National Park offers to visitors is the opportunity to trek these chimpanzees in their natural habitat. This thrilling adventure allows you to immerse yourself in the enchanting world of these intelligent and sociable primates. The lush, verdant forests of Kibale provide a picturesque backdrop for your trekking expedition, offering a chance to witness not only the chimpanzees but also the remarkable flora and fauna that thrive in this pristine environment.
For those eager to maximize their chimpanzee encounters, the good news is that it is indeed possible to trek chimpanzees twice in Kibale National Park. The park authorities have made provisions for multiple trekking opportunities, allowing you to deepen your connection with these incredible creatures and increase your chances of witnessing their fascinating behaviors.
Booking Your Chimpanzee Trek
Trekking chimpanzees in Kibale twice is possible when you book chimpanzee permits for two or more days. One is allowed to book as many chimpanzee permits as long as there is availability. For those interested in trekking chimpanzees in Kibale more than once or twice, please get in touch with us; we will advise accordingly.
Chimpanzee Trekking Permit
To participate in chimpanzee trekking, you need to secure a chimpanzee trekking permit, the only document that grants you access to the chimpanzees. These permits are in high demand, particularly during the peak season when they tend to sell out quickly. It’s strongly recommended to book your permit in advance through a licensed tour operator. A deposit will confirm your safari, and the permit acquisition process will commence. The cost of a chimpanzee tracking permit in Kibale National Park varies depending on your residency status:
- East African citizens: 180,000 UGX
- Foreign residents: $200
- Foreign non-residents: $250 per person
Please note that permit costs can change, so it’s essential to stay updated on the latest fees. Additionally, the Uganda Wildlife Authority has introduced new guidelines for permit acquisition, including a minimum age requirement of 12 years for chimp trekking and specific payment and rescheduling policies.
Chimpanzee Trekking Rules and Regulations
When embarking on a chimpanzee trekking adventure in Kibale National Park, it’s crucial to adhere to specific rules and regulations to ensure the safety of both visitors and the chimps. Some of these guidelines include:
- Do not feed the chimpanzees.
- Maintain a minimum distance of 7 meters between you and the chimps.
- Avoid eating or drinking in the presence of the chimpanzees.
- Smoking is prohibited during the trek.
- Turn off flashlights when taking photos.
- Avoid wearing brightly colored clothing that may attract unnecessary attention.
- Follow group size limits; typically, a group of 8 people is allowed to trek a chimpanzee group.
- If you feel unwell, it’s best to refrain from trekking to prevent the spread of diseases to the chimps.
Packing List for a Chimpanzee Trek
To ensure a memorable and comfortable chimpanzee trekking experience, it’s essential to pack appropriately. Here is a suggested packing list:
- Garden gloves
- Neutral-colored long-sleeved shirts and trousers
- Insect repellent
- Sunscreen
- Sunhat
- Camera with extra batteries and lenses
- Binoculars
- Sturdy hiking boots
- Day backpack
- Snacks
- Bottled drinking water
- Rain jacket
- Personal hygiene items
Choosing the Best Time for Chimpanzee Trekking
Chimpanzee trekking is possible year-round in Kibale National Park. However, the best time for this adventure is during the dry season, which spans from June to September and December to February. During these months, trekking routes are more accessible, and chimps are easier to spot due to the thinner vegetation. The wet season, from March to May and October to November, can still offer a rewarding experience for tourists who don’t mind occasional rain.
Chimpanzee Habituation Experience
For those seeking a deeper understanding of chimpanzee behavior and a more extended encounter, the chimpanzee habituation experience is an exceptional option. Unlike traditional chimpanzee trekking, where you spend an hour with the chimps, the habituation experience allows you to spend an entire day with them. This unique opportunity involves following researchers, observing feeding and grooming habits, and even participating in the chimps’ naming ceremony. It’s an immersive way to learn about these remarkable creatures and contribute to their habituation to human presence.
The habituation trek starts from Kanyachu headquarters in the park, beginning as early as 6:00 a.m. with a comprehensive briefing about what to expect and the rules and regulations to follow. During the trek, you may also catch glimpses of other primates, birds, and butterflies that inhabit the park. The chimpanzee habituation experience is a must-try for wildlife enthusiasts and those seeking an in-depth chimpanzee encounter.
The cost of a chimpanzee habituation permit in Kibale National Park varies depending on your residency status:
- East African citizens: 250,000 UGX
- Foreign residents: $250
- Foreign non-residents: $300 per person
Children’s Activities
While visitors aged 12 and above can participate in chimpanzee trekking, Kibale National Park offers a range of engaging activities for younger children under 12. These activities include:
- Nature walks
- Bird watching
- Identifying different plant and tree species with the help of a guide
- Spotting various wildlife species within Kibale
Bird Watching: A Birder’s Paradise
Kibale National Park is a bird watcher’s paradise, boasting over 370 bird species, including endemic and migratory ones. Bird watching is best enjoyed during the morning and evening hours, guided by an experienced tour guide. Some of the remarkable bird species to watch for in Kibale include the black and white shrike flycatcher, African emerald cuckoo, yellow-rumped tinker bird, blue-breasted kingfisher, crowned eagle, black-capped Apalis, Yellow-spotted Nicator, African jacana, Little Greenbul, dusky Crimsonwing, white shrike flycatcher, African pied pigtail, blue-throated roller, yellow-billed barbet, and African green pigeon, among others. The wet season, spanning October to November and March to May, is an ideal time for bird watching.
Nature Walks: Immerse Yourself in the Wilderness
Exploring Kibale National Park on foot through guided nature walks allows you to get up close with the park’s diverse wildlife. With the guidance of an experienced tour guide, you’ll have the opportunity to encounter black and white colobus monkeys, L’Hoests monkeys, forest elephants, various bird species, red-tailed monkeys, and more. Additionally, Kibale National Park offers guided night forest walks, providing a unique chance to observe nocturnal creatures such as nightjars, bush babies, civets, pottos, and Serval cats under the enchanting moonlight.
Other Chimpanzee Trekking Destinations
Besides chimpanzee trekking in Kibale National Park, Uganda offers other chimpanzee trekking destinations, each with its distinct charm:
- Kyambura Gorge (Queen Elizabeth National Park): Chimpanzee trekking in Queen Elizabeth National Park takes place in the picturesque Kyambura Gorge. While the number of chimpanzees in Kyambura Gorge may not be as abundant as in Kibale National Park, the experience is still worth it. Additionally, you can combine your trek with a drive to see the famous tree-climbing lions in the Ishasha sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park.
Permit Costs: East African citizens: 50,000 UGX , Foreign residents: $80 , Foreign non-residents: $100
- Kaniyo Pabidi Forest (Murchison Falls National Park): Located within Murchison Falls National Park near the Kichumbanyobo gate, Kaniyo Pabidi is an untouched forest where chimpanzee trekking is possible. While chimps here may be more challenging to find, the forest offers other safari activities such as bird watching, guided nature walks, butterfly viewing, and the identification of various tree species.
- Budongo Forest (Murchison Falls National Park): Another chimpanzee trekking destination within Murchison Falls National Park, Budongo Forest is known for having the largest mahogany trees in East Africa. Besides chimpanzees, the forest is home to butterflies, over 350 recorded bird species, and 24 animal species. Permit costs in Budongo vary based on the season:
When to Visit Kibale for Chimpanzee Trekking
Kibale National Park is an all-year-round chimpanzee trekking destination. However, the best time for a safari to Kibale is during the dry/peak season, which spans from June to September and December to February. During the dry season, the national park receives less or no rainfall compared to the wet season, making it easy to trek through the forests. Note that the dry season also attracts a significant number of tourists, so booking in advance is essential to secure your permits and accommodations.
How to Travel to Kibale National Park
Getting to Kibale National Park is possible via road or air transport. While flying is more convenient but can be expensive, charter flights are available from Kajjansi Airstrip or Entebbe International Airport to Semuliki or Kasese Airstrip, from where you can continue your journey by road. Alternatively, you can opt for a road trip, which takes approximately 6 to 7 hours from Kampala. Public transportation is available, but it’s highly recommended to book through a local tour operator, which can arrange private transportation for a smoother and more enjoyable journey.
