Chimpanzee trekking is one of the most popular wildlife experiences in Uganda and Rwanda, second only to mountain gorilla trekking. Like gorillas, chimpanzees are classified as endangered species by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), making the experience both rare and unforgettable.
With their population declining in the wild, conservation efforts are more important than ever. Chimpanzees are especially fascinating because they are closely related to humans, even more so than gorillas. They live in complex communities led by one or more dominant individuals and are known for their high intelligence, use of tools, and ability to express emotions.
Where to Go Chimpanzee Trekking
Uganda
Chimpanzee trekking in Uganda can be done in several locations, including:
Kibale Forest National Park
Kyambura Gorge (Queen Elizabeth National Park)
Kalinzu Forest
Budongo Forest (Murchison Falls National Park)
Chimpanzees can also be seen at:
Semuliki National Park
Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary
Kibale Forest National Park is widely regarded as the best chimpanzee trekking destination in the world, with an estimated population of about 1,500 chimpanzees. The park spans several districts, including Kamwenge, Kyenjojo, Kabarole, and Kyegegwa.
In addition to chimpanzees, Kibale is home to other wildlife such as mammals, reptiles, birds, and 12 other species of monkeys.
Rwanda
In Rwanda, chimpanzees can be found in:
Nyungwe National Park
Gishwati–Mukura National Park
Nyungwe National Park is the top destination for chimpanzee trekking in Rwanda.
By road: A drive from Kampala or Entebbe takes about 4–5 hours, offering beautiful scenic views along the way.
By air: Daily domestic flights are available through airlines such as Aerolink Uganda and Bar Aviation. Flights land at Kasese Airstrip, followed by a 2-hour road transfer to the park.
To participate in chimpanzee trekking, visitors must obtain a permit in advance, as permits are in high demand. Compared to gorilla trekking, chimpanzee permits are relatively affordable.
Permits are issued by:
Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) in Uganda
Rwanda Development Board (RDB) in Rwanda
Permit Prices
Chimpanzee permit: USD 100
Park entrance fee: USD 100
Chimpanzee trekking permit: USD 250
Chimpanzee habituation permit: USD 300
Foreign residents: USD 250
East African residents: UGX 150,000
Permit fees include park entrance and guiding services.
Chimpanzee Trekking: 1 hour with the chimpanzees
Trekking Sessions in Kibale
Morning: 8:00 am
Midday: 12:00 pm
Afternoon: 2:00 pm
Other Permit Costs
Budongo Forest: USD 130
Kyambura Gorge & Kalinzu Forest: USD 100 per person
All treks begin with a pre-trek briefing at the park headquarters, led by park guides and rangers. Visitors are briefed on safety rules and then divided into small groups, each accompanied by a professional guide.
The trek can take anywhere from 30 minutes to several hours, depending on the movement of the chimpanzees. Once located, visitors observe how chimps play, feed, communicate, and care for their young.
Chimpanzee trekking is often considered more dramatic and energetic than gorilla trekking. Chimpanzees are loud, active, and constantly interacting, making the experience highly engaging.
Uganda
Minimum age: 12 years
Rwanda
Minimum age: 15 years
Children below these ages are not allowed to participate due to safety concerns. Chimpanzees can be unpredictable, and trekking can be physically demanding. Young children may struggle to follow rules, stay on trails, or complete the long walks through dense forests.
Although young children cannot join chimpanzee trekking, Kibale Forest National Park offers alternative activities, including:
Nature walks
Bird watching
Photography
Forest survival skill lessons
Cultural visits to nearby indigenous communities
These activities keep children engaged while parents are on the trek.
Chimpanzee trekking is an extraordinary wildlife experience available to adults and children aged 12 and above in Uganda, and 15 and above in Rwanda. Travelers with physical challenges can hire porters at briefing points to assist with carrying bags and navigating the terrain, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable trek.
