This three-day trip focuses on observing chimpanzees and other primates within Kibale National Park, a critical habitat for African wildlife. Situated in southern Uganda, the park spans 795 square kilometers of tropical rainforest, woodlands, and savanna. While human activity has reduced its size, Kibale remains a vital refuge for over 1,500 chimpanzees, 12 primate species, and diverse flora and fauna.
Kibale’s rainforest features trees exceeding 55 meters in height and centuries-old specimens. Beyond primates, the park shelters forest elephants, leopards, warthogs, and rare birds. Though lacking mountain gorillas, Kibale is globally recognized for chimpanzee observation. Visitors may opt for standard tracking or the extended chimpanzee habituation program, which involves full-day monitoring of wild groups alongside researchers.
Day 1: Arrival and Bigodi Wetland Exploration
A Mission Africa Safaris representative will collect you from the airport for a four-hour drive to Kibale. En route, pause in Fort Portal for lunch and optional cultural visits, such as the Amabere Caves or Toro Kingdom royal sites. Upon arrival, explore Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, known for birdlife (including papyrus gonoleks and hornbills), primates, and rare mammals like sitatunga antelopes.
Accommodation: Chimpanzee Forest Guesthouse (budget/mid-range) or Papaya Lake Lodge (luxury).
Day 2: Chimpanzee Trekking Experience
Begin early with breakfast, followed by a briefing at the park office. Track chimpanzees through Kanyanchu’s trails, guided by rangers who locate groups via vocalizations. Kibale’s habituated chimpanzees are more reliably observed than in neighboring regions, with treks lasting two to four hours. Observe their dynamic social interactions, mobility across trees, and vocal communication during a one-hour viewing period. The walk also reveals colobus monkeys, baboons, mangabeys, and other primates.
Post-lunch, embark on a birdwatching trail or continue primate observation. Those participating in the habituation program spend the entire day with researchers, documenting behaviors like nesting and feeding.
Accommodation: Same as Day 1.
Day 3: Cultural Engagement and Return Journey
After breakfast, visit local communities to learn about traditions, agriculture, and daily life. Engage with elders, explore villages, or tour schools and churches. Depart for Kampala or Entebbe midday, with lunch en route and views of tea plantations, Ankole cattle farms, and rural landscapes. Arrival in Kampala or the airport occurs by evening.
Permit Details:
- Standard chimpanzee tracking: $250 (international), $200 (foreign residents), 180,000 UGX (East Africans).
- Habituation experience: $300 (international), $250 (foreign residents), 250,000 UGX (East Africans).
Package includes accommodations, meals, permits, and guided activities; excludes flights, visas, and personal expenses.