Apes in Uganda: A Primate Paradise

Apes in Uganda: A Primate Paradise

Apes in Uganda: A Primate Paradise — Uganda is home to a remarkable diversity of primates, including 20 ape species, with 13 of them found exclusively in Kibale Forest National Park. Among these are chimpanzees, black-and-white colobus monkeys, and more. Uganda is also known for its iconic mountain gorillas, which reside in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, while golden monkeys can only be found in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.

If you’re an animal lover, Uganda is one of the best destinations in the world to experience these magnificent creatures in their natural habitats. Whether you’re trekking to see mountain gorillas, chimpanzees, or golden monkeys, Uganda offers unforgettable opportunities for close-up encounters with apes.

Primate Tracking: A Top Safari Activity

Primate tracking is one of the best ways to explore Uganda’s rich wildlife. The country is home to various primate species, including Mountain Gorillas, Chimpanzees, and Golden Monkeys. During these treks, you will explore Uganda’s lush forests in search of these incredible creatures. Activities such as gorilla trekking, chimpanzee trekking, and golden monkey trekking are all conducted in groups of 8 visitors.

Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Gorilla trekking in Uganda is an unforgettable experience. You’ll visit Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. To trek gorillas, a permit is required, with costs of USD 800 for foreign non-residents, USD 700 for East African residents, and USD 80 for East African citizens. This allows you to spend one hour with these magnificent creatures. For a more immersive experience, you can opt for the Gorilla Habituation Experience, which offers four hours with the mountain gorillas for USD 1500 per person per trek.

Chimpanzee Trekking in Uganda

Chimpanzee trekking is another top activity in Uganda. It takes place in Kibale Forest National Park, Kyambura Gorge in Queen Elizabeth National Park, Kalinzu Forest, and Budongo Forest near Murchison Falls National Park. Chimpanzee tracking takes place in both the morning and afternoon. The permit for regular chimpanzee trekking costs USD 200 for foreign non-residents, USD 150 for residents, and USD 30 for citizens. This gives you a one-hour encounter with the chimps. You can also opt for the Chimpanzee Habituation Experience in Kibale Forest, offering a half-day encounter with the chimpanzees.

Golden Monkey Trekking

Golden Monkey trekking is a unique experience you can only have in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. A golden monkey trekking permit costs USD 100, allowing you to spend one hour with these playful primates. For a deeper connection, the Golden Monkey Habituation Experience, which allows for a four-hour encounter, is available for USD 140.

Gorilla Habituation Experience

The Gorilla Habituation Experience is a special opportunity to spend four hours with semi-habituated mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park. This experience involves trekking through the forest to find a gorilla family that is still getting accustomed to human presence. It is an exceptional activity that allows you to learn more about these majestic animals. The experience is done in small groups of 4 visitors per gorilla family.

Other Activities to Enhance Your Uganda Safari

Wildlife Viewing

Take part in game drives in Uganda’s savannah national parks, such as Kidepo Valley, Murchison Falls, Lake Mburo, and Queen Elizabeth National Park. These parks offer the chance to see wildlife such as tree-climbing lions, elephants, giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, leopards, and more.

Experiential Tourism Activities

For a truly immersive experience, try lion tracking, mongoose tracking, hippo census, or bird counting in Queen Elizabeth National Park. These activities offer a unique, up-close look at Uganda’s wildlife.

Cultural Experiences

Uganda is rich in cultural diversity, with over 50 ethnic tribes and languages. On your safari, you can visit local communities and learn how they co-exist peacefully with wildlife. Experience traditional dances and cultural rituals that provide a deeper connection to the land.

Mountain Hiking and Cycling

Uganda’s varied landscape makes it an excellent destination for hiking and cycling. Explore mountains like Mount Elgon, Rwenzori, Sabinyo, Muhavura, and Gahinga, which offer stunning hiking opportunities.

Bird Watching

Uganda is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 1,000 bird species, including migrant birds and Albertine endemics. Popular birding spots include Bwindi Forest, Mabamba Swamp, Kazinga Channel, and Bigodi Wetland. Notable species include the Shoebill, Gray Crowned Crane, African Jacana, and Secretary Bird.

Boat Safari Excursions

Enjoy boat trips on Uganda’s beautiful lakes and rivers. The Kazinga Channel in Queen Elizabeth National Park and River Nile excursions in Murchison Falls National Park offer excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing.

Best Time to See Apes in Uganda

The best time to see apes in Uganda is during the dry months of December to February and June to October. These months offer easier trekking conditions as the trails are less slippery. The rainy season (March to May and November) can make access more difficult.

Plan Your Ape Safari with Excursia Adventures

At Excursia Adventures, we prioritize the well-being of our guests and staff, as well as making a positive impact on local communities and conservation efforts. Contact us today to plan and book your safari to see Uganda’s amazing apes.