Morning Chimpanzee Trekking in Kibale National Park

Experience a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity by meeting the fascinating chimpanzees of Kibale Forest National Park in Uganda. Sharing over 98% of our DNA, these intelligent and creative primates are truly worth observing. During the trek, you will witness their unique behaviors and communication methods, including using sticks as tools and living in tight-knit family units. Whether traveling solo or with friends, exploring the forest in the morning hours ensures an unforgettable experience.

Morning chimpanzee trekking begins at 7:00 a.m. with a 30-minute pre-trekking briefing. During this session, Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) staff explain the trekking rules, provide important facts about chimpanzees, and outline the expected code of conduct around these remarkable animals. Afterwards, a ranger guide leads you through the forest in search of the chimpanzees. Along the way, you may also encounter other species, including a variety of birds and primates such as white and black colobus monkeys, vervet monkeys, and more. Once you locate the chimpanzees, you will spend an hour observing their behaviors. Brave, intelligent, and creative, chimpanzees display skills and interactions that are both fascinating and entertaining.

Kibale Forest National Park, located in the Fort Portal district of western Uganda within the Albertine Rift Valley, covers 776 square kilometers of tropical forest. The park received national park status in 1993 and is managed by UWA. The local Bakiga and Batoro communities enrich the visitor experience by sharing their unique cultures. The forest is home to 13 primate species, including over 1,500 chimpanzees, black-and-white colobus monkeys, blue monkeys, grey-cheeked mangabeys, and more. Additionally, forest elephants, buffalos, bushbucks, and other wildlife inhabit the park.

Chimpanzee Trekking Permit Costs

A morning chimpanzee trekking permit costs:

• USD 230 per person for foreign non-residents
• USD 200 per person for foreign residents
• UGX 200,000 per person for East African citizens, including Ugandans

The fee covers the park entrance, ranger guide payment, and contributions to wildlife conservation. Permits are available through registered local tour operators and are valid for a single visit. The fee is non-refundable, and it is advisable to book at least six months in advance.

What to Pack

For a successful trekking experience, pack the following:

• Trekking permit
• Camera for photography
• Gloves to protect your hands from scratches and thorns
• Insect repellent
• Hiking boots
• Waterproof jacket and warm clothes
• Long socks or stockings
• Binoculars for observing distant animals

Travel light to minimize luggage, porter fees, and transportation costs. The duration of your stay in Kibale National Park should guide the size of your luggage.

Best Time to Go and Lodging Options

Chimpanzee trekking is available year-round, but the best months are June to September and December to March, when rainfall is minimal. Visiting during the low season offers advantages such as discounted rates and fewer crowds. Lodging around Fort Portal ranges from budget-friendly accommodations to luxury lodges, hotels, and cottages. To secure a morning trekking slot, it is recommended to book at least three months in advance.

Conclusion

Morning chimpanzee trekking offers the best experience, as the chimps are most active early in the day. You will witness them jumping between trees, feeding, playing, and interacting with their family groups. Trekking in the morning also allows time for additional activities or onward travel to destinations such as Bwindi Impenetrable National Park for gorilla trekking, Queen Elizabeth National Park for wildlife tours, Lake Mburo, Bigodi Swamp, Isunga Cultural Community, Murchison Falls National Park, and more. Kibale Forest National Park remains open throughout the year, offering a prime opportunity to connect with Uganda’s rich wildlife and natural beauty.