Chimpanzee Trekking in Uganda: Kibale Forest vs. Kyambura Gorge

Chimpanzee Trekking in Uganda: Kibale Forest vs. Kyambura Gorge

Chimpanzee Trekking in Uganda: Kibale Forest vs. Kyambura Gorge — If you’re considering chimpanzee trekking in Uganda, you might be wondering where to go: Kibale Forest National Park or Kyambura Gorge? Both locations offer incredible experiences, but they have distinct features that set them apart.

Kibale Forest National Park

Kibale Forest is widely regarded as the premier destination for chimpanzee trekking in Uganda. It boasts an impressive diversity of resident primates, with 13 different species including an estimated 1,500 chimpanzees, the largest population in the country. This lush forest is also home to other fascinating primates, such as the nocturnal bushbaby and potto, as well as monkeys and baboons. For bird enthusiasts, Kibale is a paradise, hosting over 335 recorded bird species.

Chimpanzee trekking is the main attraction in Kibale, drawing visitors from around the globe. The trekking experience is managed by the Uganda Wildlife Authority, and you’ll need a chimpanzee permit to participate in these treks. At Trek Africa Expeditions, we can assist you in securing these permits and provide you with comprehensive information about chimpanzee trekking, general travel details in Uganda, and alternative activities available in Kibale.

Kyambura Gorge

Chimpanzee tracking in Kyambura Gorge is another exciting option, located within Queen Elizabeth National Park. This unique environment offers a different perspective on chimpanzee viewing. The treks here occur both in the morning and afternoon, and our team at Trek Africa Expeditions can help organize your permits and tailor your itinerary based on your interests and schedule.

One significant advantage of trekking in Kyambura is the cost. The chimpanzee trekking permit here is priced at just $100 per person for foreign non residents, $80 for foreign residents and UGX 50000 for East African Residents per trek, compared to $250 for a permit in Kibale Forest National Park. While this makes Kyambura a more budget-friendly option, the experience remains unforgettable.

Both Kibale and Kyambura offer an hour of viewing time with the chimpanzees once you find them. The treks typically last about 3 to 4 hours, depending on the movement of the chimpanzees. After a briefing on the do’s and don’ts at the forest headquarters, you’ll be grouped with other trekkers and guided by experienced park rangers through the forest. The chance of spotting chimpanzees in both locations is high, with an impressive 95% success rate.

Best Time for Chimpanzee Trekking

The best months for chimpanzee trekking in both Kibale Forest National Park and Kyambura Gorge are from June to October and December to March. During this dry season, you’ll encounter mild rainfall, making the trek easier and providing clearer views of the chimpanzees, perfect for photography.

In contrast, the wet months of April, May, and November can lead to denser vegetation, which might make sightings a bit more challenging. However, during these times, the treks are usually shorter since the chimpanzees do not travel far in search of food, as it is readily available.

How to get to Kyambura Gorge for Chimpanzee Trekking

By Road: To reach Kyambura Gorge, you can drive along the main safari circuit from Entebbe or Kampala to Kasese. Depending on your route—either via Fort Portal or Bushenyi—the journey takes approximately 6 to 7 hours. Once you arrive in Kasese, you’ll need to drive another 1 to 2 hours to connect to Kyambura Gorge.

By Air: Another option is to fly from Entebbe International Airport or Kajjansi Airfield in Kampala to Kasese Airstrip. Several domestic airlines, including Aero Link and Fly Uganda, offer scheduled and chartered flights. Make sure to coordinate with your tour operator for a transfer from the airstrip to the gorge for your chimpanzee trekking adventure.

How to get to Kibale Forest National Park for Chimpanzee Trekking

By Road: You can easily access Kibale Forest National Park via the main safari circuit from Entebbe or Kampala to Fort Portal, which takes around 4 to 5 hours. Alternatively, you can travel through the Kampala-Mbarara-Kasese highway. From Kasese, it’s about a 1 to 2 hour drive to the park.

By Air: Flights from Entebbe International Airport or Kajjansi Airfield to Kasese Airstrip are also available. Again, scheduled and chartered flights are operated by Aero Link and Fly Uganda. Don’t forget to arrange for a transfer from the airstrip to Kibale Forest with your tour operator.

Where to Stay During Chimpanzee Trekking in Kyambura Gorge

Kyambura Gorge offers a variety of accommodation options to suit different budgets. Here’s a brief overview:

• Budget: Affordable choices include Pumba Safari Lodge and Elephant Hab Lodge, with rates ranging from $90 to $100 per person per night.
• Mid-Range: For a comfortable stay, consider Buffalo Safari Lodge, where prices range from $150 to $200 per person per night.
• Luxury: If you prefer a more upscale experience, Kyambura Gorge Lodge, Katara Lodge, and Mazike Lodge are excellent options, with rates from $250 to $700 per person per night.

Where to Stay During Chimpanzee Trekking in Kibale Forest National Park

Kibale Forest National Park also has a range of accommodation options:

• Budget: Great budget options include Chimpanzee Forest Guest House, Isunga Lodge, Mountains of the Moon, Rwenzori View Guest House, and Kibale Home Stay, all costing between $90 and $100 per person per night.
• Mid-Range: For something a bit nicer, check out Kibale Forest Camp, Turaco Treetops Lodge, and Prime Lodge Kibale, with prices ranging from $150 to $200 per person per night.
• Luxury: Experience the best of Kibale with luxury lodges like Ndali Lodge, Crater Safari Lodge, Papaya Lake Lodge, and Kyaninga Lodge, where rates vary from $250 to $700 per person per night.

Why Book with Trek Africa Expeditions for Your Chimpanzee Trek?

At Trek Africa Expeditions, we specialize in crafting unforgettable chimpanzee safari experiences in Uganda and Rwanda. Our services are highly rated on TripAdvisor, ensuring you receive top-notch care throughout your journey. We offer a unique blend of gorilla trekking safaris combined with eco-friendly adventures that help preserve biodiversity and uplift local communities.

Our diverse offerings include chimpanzee trekking, Big Five safaris, game viewing, mountain hiking, boat cruises, and cultural encounters, all designed to provide you with a memorable African safari experience.

For more information on chimpanzee trekking in Kibale and Kyambura, feel free to contact us at Trek Africa Expeditions! We’re here to help you plan your perfect adventure.