Primate Species Found in Uganda
Uganda boasts the highest concentration of primates in Africa, with around 20 fascinating species 13 diurnal (active during the day) and 7 nocturnal. This rich diversity makes Uganda a dream destination for primate lovers and researchers alike. From the iconic mountain gorillas to the elusive dwarf galago, Uganda invites thousands of visitors each year to discover its extraordinary primate kingdom.
Explore Uganda’s Most Popular Primate Species
The most sought-after primates in Uganda include chimpanzees, mountain gorillas, and golden monkeys. Other species commonly seen across Uganda’s forests and national parks include:
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Black-and-white colobus
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Red colobus
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De Brazza’s monkey
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Grey-cheeked mangabey
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Blue monkey
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Red-tailed monkey
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Vervet monkey
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Patas monkey
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Olive baboon
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Potto
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Bushbaby
Uganda has also recently identified a dwarf galago species, adding to its impressive list of rare and endemic primates.
Experience the Magic: Gorilla and Chimpanzee Trekking
Visitors can join guided trekking adventures that allow close-up encounters with these amazing creatures in their natural habitats. Trained rangers, local trackers, and primatologists lead the treks daily, helping you safely observe these animals while learning about their behaviors and social structures.
Mountain gorilla trekking usually lasts 5 to 7 hours, including a precious one-hour encounter with a gorilla family. Uganda offers this once-in-a-lifetime experience in the Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, home to nearly half the world’s mountain gorilla population. The park includes four trekking sectors: Buhoma, Rushaga, Ruhija, and Nkuringo.
Chimpanzee trekking is most rewarding in Kibale National Park, often called the Primate Capital of the World, but other destinations like Budongo Forest, Kalinzu Forest, Kyambura Gorge, and Semuliki National Park also offer unforgettable chimpanzee encounters.
Where to Spot Primates in Uganda
Uganda provides several prime locations to observe different primates in the wild:
1. Mountain Gorillas
You’ll find Uganda’s endangered mountain gorillas in the misty forests of Bwindi Impenetrable and Mgahinga Gorilla National Parks. Gorillas live in family groups led by a dominant silverback male. Rangers allow only eight visitors per day to trek with each habituated family group.
2. Chimpanzees
Sharing over 98% of their DNA with humans, chimpanzees are our closest relatives and some of the most engaging primates to watch. The best places to see them include:
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Kibale Forest
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Budongo Forest (Murchison Falls National Park)
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Kyambura Gorge (Queen Elizabeth National Park)
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Kalinzu Forest Reserve
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Semuliki National Park
3. Golden Monkeys
Golden monkeys, with their stunning orange-gold coats and playful expressions, live only in the bamboo forests of Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, located in Uganda’s southwestern corner. You won’t find them anywhere else in Uganda.
4. Blue Monkeys
Despite their name, blue monkeys often show a mix of grey and olive coloration. They live in most national parks except Lake Mburo and Murchison Falls, often seen near forested areas.
5. De Brazza’s Monkeys
These eye-catching monkeys feature a white beard, reddish brow, and a blue scrotum. You can spot them in Mount Elgon National Park and Semuliki National Park.
6. Black-and-White Colobus Monkeys
These elegant monkeys lack thumbs and display striking contrasts in their long black fur and flowing white mantles. Look for them in Kibale, Bwindi, and Semuliki forests.
7. Red Colobus Monkeys
With tufted crowns and large eyes, red colobus monkeys add character to any forest walk. They’re commonly seen in Kibale and Semuliki, where they often mix with other colobus species.
8. Pottos
Often called bush bears, pottos are slow-moving nocturnal primates. You can encounter them during night walks in Kibale Forest, where they live among the treetops.
9. Bush Babies
Named for their infant-like cries, bush babies are small, nocturnal primates you can easily hear and sometimes see on night forest walks, especially in Kibale Forest.
10. Grey-Cheeked Mangabeys
These rare and shaggy-looking monkeys feature golden manes around their necks. Kibale Forest is the best place to observe them.
11. Red-Tailed Monkeys
Recognized by the white heart-shaped patch on their nose and long red tails, these small monkeys are quite common in Kibale, Bwindi, Queen Elizabeth, and Semuliki parks.
12. Vervet Monkeys
These social monkeys, with black faces and silver-grey bodies, are easy to spot across Uganda, especially in Entebbe Botanical Gardens.
13. Patas Monkeys
Patas monkeys prefer savannah habitats. You can best observe them in the Kidepo Valley and Murchison Falls National Parks.
14. Olive Baboons
Uganda is home to large troops of olive baboons, which are highly adaptable and can be found in nearly all major national parks. Despite their intelligence, tourists often keep a safe distance because of their bold behavior and sharp canine teeth. Plan Your Uganda Primate Safari Today!
Whether you’re watching a silverback groom his family or hearing the distant calls of chimpanzees echo through the forest, Uganda offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience for primate lovers. From guided day hikes to night forest walks, the country opens its forested heart to anyone ready to explore.
Book your primate safari in Uganda today and come face-to-face with some of the planet’s most intelligent and rare primates!
