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How Much Does Chimpanzee Trekking in Kyambura Gorge Cost?
Chimpanzee trekking in Kyambura Gorge, located in Queen Elizabeth National Park, is an unforgettable experience. A chimpanzee trekking permit costs $100 per person for foreign non-residents and $80 residents. This permit grants you the chance to spend one hour with the habituated chimpanzees, observing them in their natural habitat.
In addition to the permit, the total cost of your chimpanzee trekking experience will depend on factors such as transport, accommodation, and guiding services. The more days you spend on your safari and the type of accommodation you choose will influence the overall cost.
About Chimpanzee Trekking in Kyambura Gorge
Managed by the Uganda Wildlife Authority, chimpanzee trekking in Kyambura Gorge typically lasts between 2 to 3 hours, depending on the chimps’ movements within the forest. After finding the chimpanzees, you’ll spend one hour with them, observing their fascinating behavior—eating, resting, and playing. The trek offers opportunities to spot other wildlife too, such as monkeys, butterflies, reptiles, and mammals (depending on your luck).
Kyambura Gorge is part of Queen Elizabeth National Park in Western Uganda. This gorge serves as a buffer zone for the park and is home to a variety of species, including chimpanzees, Vervet monkeys, Black and White Colobus monkeys, and a variety of butterflies, moths, and reptiles. Chimpanzee trekking is one of the most popular activities in the area, and visitors often describe it as a worthwhile experience.
Is Chimpanzee Trekking in Kyambura Gorge Worth the Cost?
With a permit costing $100, chimpanzee trekking in Kyambura Gorge offers more than just a chance to see these remarkable creatures. The experience provides a deep dive into the lives of the chimpanzees, while also helping to support conservation efforts. The funds raised from trekking fees contribute to the protection of Kyambura Gorge’s natural habitat and support local communities.
Without this income from tourism, the gorge would likely face encroachment and degradation. By participating in this activity, you’re not only gaining an educational experience but also contributing to the preservation of the chimpanzees’ home, which in turn promotes environmental conservation in Uganda. So, yes, the money spent on chimpanzee trekking is worth it, as it directly benefits both the wildlife and the surrounding communities.
How to Book Chimpanzee Trekking in Kyambura Gorge
To secure your place for chimpanzee trekking in Kyambura, you’ll need to book your permit in advance. Here’s how the process works:
- Confirm your travel dates.
- Email us with your preferred dates, and we’ll check the availability of permits with the Uganda Wildlife Authority.
- Once we confirm availability, we’ll send you an invoice for payment.
- After receiving your payment, we’ll immediately purchase your permit and send you a scanned copy for your records.
It’s highly recommended to book your permits at least 2-3 months before your planned trek, as permits tend to sell out quickly due to high demand.
Where to Stay During Your Chimpanzee Trekking Adventure in Kyambura Gorge
When planning your chimpanzee trekking experience in Kyambura Gorge, you’ll find a variety of accommodation options in Queen Elizabeth National Park to suit different budgets and preferences.
- Budget Options: For an affordable stay, consider Pumba Safari Lodge or Elephant Hab Lodge, with rates starting at USD 90-100 per person per night.
- Mid-Range Options: If you prefer a bit more comfort, Buffalo Safari Lodge is a great choice, offering accommodation for around USD 150-200 per person per night.
- Luxury Options: For a more indulgent experience, consider staying at Kyambura Gorge Lodge, Katara Lodge, or Mazike Lodge, where prices range from USD 250-700 per person per night.
No matter your budget, there are plenty of options to ensure a comfortable and memorable stay during your chimpanzee trekking adventure.
How to Access Kyambura Gorge for Chimpanzee Trekking
There are two main ways to reach Kyambura Gorge:
- By Road: Kyambura Gorge is accessible via the main safari circuit. From Entebbe or Kampala, it’s approximately a 6-7 hour drive to Kasese, passing through Fort Portal or Bushenyi. From Kasese, it’s another 1-2 hour drive to the gorge. The Kampala-Mbarara-Bushenyi route is often considered the most convenient.
- By Air: If you’re looking for a quicker option, you can fly from Entebbe International Airport or Kajjansi Airfield in Kampala to Kasese/Mweya airstrip. From there, a short transfer to Kyambura Gorge will take you to your trekking destination. Scheduled and chartered flights are operated by domestic airlines like Aero Link and Fly Uganda. Make sure to coordinate with your tour operator for the transfer from the airstrip to the gorge.
Why Book Your Chimpanzee Trekking Safari in Kyambura Gorge with Excursia Adventures?
At Excursia Adventures, we craft personalized chimpanzee trekking safaris to Kyambura Gorge. Here’s why you should book with us:
- Tailored Experiences: We work with you to create a customized travel plan that fits your preferences and needs.
- Efficient Service: Our dedicated team responds to your queries within 20 minutes, ensuring you get timely assistance for your questions.
- Expert Guides: Our knowledgeable safari guides speak a variety of languages, ensuring you have an informative and enjoyable experience.
- Hassle-Free Booking: We handle all the logistics—accommodation, permits, and transfers—so you can relax and focus on enjoying your safari. We ensure that everything is arranged in advance to avoid any last-minute stress.
Feel free to contact us for more information about chimpanzee trekking costs and booking your adventure with Excursia Adventures!
