Choosing between Chimpanzee Trekking in Kibale and Kyambura Gorge

When deciding where to go for chimpanzee trekking in Uganda, two popular options are Kibale Forest National Park and Kyambura Gorge. Both places offer exciting opportunities to see these amazing creatures up close. Let’s compare them to help you decide which one is best for you.

Chimpanzee Trekking in Kibale Forest National Park

Kibale Forest National Park is known for its diverse population of primates, including the largest number of chimpanzees in Uganda. With over 1500 chimpanzees, it’s a prime spot for chimpanzee trekking. Besides chimpanzees, you can also encounter other primates like monkeys, baboons, and even nocturnal creatures like bushbabies and pottos. Bird enthusiasts will also love Kibale, with over 335 bird species to spot.

Chimpanzee trekking in Kibale is managed by the Uganda Wildlife Authority. You’ll need a permit to trek with the chimpanzees, which can be arranged through Iconic Africa Safaris Ltd. The permit costs $200 per person per trek, but the experience is worth it. The trek starts early in the morning with a briefing at the forest headquarters. Then, you’ll be grouped with park guides and rangers who will lead you into the forest. The trek usually takes 3 to 4 hours, and once you find the chimps, you’ll have one hour to observe and enjoy their presence.

The best time for chimpanzee trekking in Kibale is during the dry seasons, from June to October and December to March. During these months, the weather is mild, and the vegetation is not too thick, making it easier to spot the chimpanzees and take photographs.

Chimpanzee Trekking in Kyambura Gorge

Kyambura Gorge, located within Queen Elizabeth National Park, is another great option for chimpanzee trekking. While Kibale has a larger population of chimpanzees, Kyambura offers a more affordable trekking experience, with permits costing $50 per person per trek.

Similar to Kibale, chimpanzee trekking in Kyambura is managed by the Uganda Wildlife Authority. The treks are conducted in the morning and afternoon sessions, and you’ll need to book your permits in advance. The trekking experience is similar to Kibale, starting with a briefing at the forest headquarters and then heading into the gorge with park guides and rangers.

The best time for chimpanzee trekking in Kyambura is also during the dry seasons, from June to October and December to March. However, trekking can be done throughout the year, with a high chance of spotting chimpanzees.

Accessing Kyambura Gorge for Chimpanzee Trekking

By Road: You can drive to Kyambura Gorge from Entebbe or Kampala. It takes about 6-7 hours. You can go through Fort Portal or Bushenyi. From Kasese, it’s about 1-2 hours to Kyambura Gorge.

By Air: You can fly from Entebbe or Kampala to Kasese airstrip. Then, you’ll need to go from the airstrip to Kyambura Gorge. Flights are available from Aero link and Fly Uganda.

Staying in Kyambura Gorge:

There are different places to stay in Kyambura Gorge. You can choose budget, mid-range, or luxury options. Budget options include Pumba Safari Lodge and Elephant Hab lodge. Mid-range options include Buffalo Safari Lodge. Luxury options are Kyambura Gorge Lodge, Katara Lodge, and Mazike Lodge.

Accessing Kibale Forest National Park for Chimpanzee Trekking

By Road: You can drive to Kibale Forest National Park from Entebbe or Kampala. It takes about 4-5 hours. You can go through Fort Portal or Mabara. From Kasese, it’s about 1-2 hours to Kibale Forest.

By Air: You can fly from Entebbe or Kampala to Kasese airstrip. Then, you’ll need to go from the airstrip to Kibale Forest National Park. Flights are available from Aero link and Fly Uganda.

Staying in Kibale Forest National Park:

There are different places to stay in Kibale Forest National Park. You can choose budget, mid-range, or luxury options. Budget options include Chimpanzee Forest Guest House and Isunga Lodge. Mid-range options include Kibale Forest Camp and Turaco Treetops Lodge. Luxury options are Ndali Lodge, Crater Safari Lodge, Papaya Lake Lodge, and Kyaninga Lodge.