Kibale Chimpanzee Trekking: A Tourist Guide

Overview

Kibale National Park, located in western Uganda (Kibale & Kabarole districts), is often called the Primate Capital of the World. Famous for its chimpanzees and rich biodiversity, the park is near the Rwenzori Mountains, Queen Elizabeth National Park, and Semuliki National Park. Established in 1995, Kibale protects its tropical rainforest and wildlife.

Wildlife Highlights

Primates

• Chimpanzees (main attraction) – over 1,500 in the park
• Other primates: red-tailed monkeys, L’Hoest’s monkeys, blue monkeys, baboons, bush babies, colobus monkeys

Birds

• Over 324 species, including African Grey Parrot, Great Blue Turaco, Woodland Kingfisher, Black-and-White Casqued Hornbill

Other Mammals

• Forest elephants, golden cats, warthogs, hippos, buffaloes, sitatungas, duikers

Other Attractions

• Butterflies, reptiles, amphibians, and scenic rainforest

Chimpanzee Trekking Experience

• Trekking starts at 8:00 AM at Kanyanchu Visitor Center
• Briefing on chimp behavior, safety, and forest rules
• Trek guided by rangers (armed for protection)
• Trek duration: 1–3 hours depending on location and chimp movement
• Expect to see chimps feeding, grooming, playing, and interacting
• Maximum 6 visitors per chimp community per session

Tips:

• Chimps spend most of their time in trees and are very active
• Follow guides’ instructions at all times
• Keep 8 meters distance from chimps
• No flash photography or food near chimps

Chimpanzee Habituation Experience

• Full-day experience from 5:30 AM to 7:00 PM
• Observe chimps in their natural behavior throughout the day
• Learn about chimp conservation and behavior from researchers
• Recommended during the low season for fewer crowds

Best Time to Visit

• Dry Seasons: December – March & June – August (ideal trekking conditions)
• Rainy Seasons: April – May & October – November
• Morning treks are preferred due to afternoon rains

How to Get There

• From Kampala: 300 km to Fort Portal, then 36 km to Kanyanchu
• Recommended: book a safari package with transport, guide, meals, and accommodation

Trekking Rules

• Minimum age: 12 years
• Do not trek if sick or with contagious diseases
• Follow guides at all times
• No flash photography, eating, or littering
• Heavy breakfast and restroom before trekking

Packing Essentials

• Backpack: Camera, binoculars, snacks, spare clothes
• Hiking boots: Waterproof with good traction
• Clothing: Long-sleeved, quick-dry, rain jacket
• Insect repellent
• Water & snacks

Other Activities in Kibale

• Primates Walks: Spot 12 other species besides chimps
• Birdwatching: Over 375 species including endemic birds
• Nature Walks: Morning, afternoon, and night walks for nocturnal wildlife
• Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary: 4.5 km trails for birds, primates, butterflies
• Crater Lakes: Scenic lakes in Kasende, Katwe, Fort Portal, and Bunyaruguru clusters

Quick Facts

• Chimp Population: 1,500+
• Permits: $250 for chimp trekking
• Session Duration: 1 hour per group, 3 times daily in Kibale
• Age Requirement: 12+ years
• Group Size: Max 6 people per chimp community.