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Difference between Chimpanzee Trekking in Kibale and Nyungwe
If you’re considering chimpanzee trekking, both Kibale National Park and Nyungwe Forest National Park offer incredible opportunities to see these amazing creatures in their natural habitat. Fortunately, your chances of spotting chimpanzees in either location are about 95%, ensuring a memorable experience regardless of your choice.
Kibale Forest National Park: A Primate Paradise
Kibale Forest National Park is renowned for its impressive diversity of primates, boasting 13 different species. It is home to Uganda’s largest population of chimpanzees, with an estimated 1,500 individuals. Other fascinating primates found in Kibale include nocturnal bushbabies and potto, as well as monkeys and baboons. For bird enthusiasts, the park is a haven with over 335 recorded bird species.
Chimpanzee trekking in Kibale is conducted in two sessions each day: morning and afternoon. The specific session you join depends on the chimpanzee permit you purchase and your travel itinerary.
Nyungwe Forest National Park: An Ancient Rainforest
Nyungwe Forest National Park, one of Africa’s oldest rainforests, is rich in biodiversity and stunning scenery. It is home to not only chimpanzees but also 12 other primate species, including the endemic L’Hoest’s monkey. The park offers a unique blend of wildlife and lush landscapes, making it a beautiful trekking destination.
Popular Safari Packages
Both Kibale and Nyungwe are featured in several popular safari itineraries, including:
- 5 Day Rwanda Gorillas and Chimp Tour
- 5 Day Uganda Gorilla and Chimpanzee Safari
- 15 Days Uganda-Rwanda Tour
Cost Comparison of Chimpanzee Trekking
When it comes to cost, there is a notable difference between the two parks. A chimpanzee permit in Nyungwe Forest is priced at $90, making it significantly more affordable than Kibale’s permit, which costs $250. In Nyungwe, permits can be booked at the reception center, through the Rwanda Development Board, or conveniently via a tour operator. While it’s possible to secure a permit on the day of trekking, booking in advance is advisable.
For Kibale National Park, permits can be obtained through the Uganda Wildlife Authority or directly at the park.
Trek Duration and Experience
Chimpanzee treks in both parks begin early in the morning with a briefing at the forest headquarters. You will be grouped with fellow trekkers and assigned a park guide or ranger who will lead you into the forest. The trek typically lasts 2 to 4 hours, depending on the movement of the chimpanzees. Once you locate them, you’ll have one hour to observe these incredible creatures as they eat, rest, and play.
Additionally, both parks offer opportunities to see other wildlife, including primates, reptiles, and mammals, enhancing your trekking experience.
Best Times for Chimpanzee Trekking
The best time for chimpanzee trekking in both Kibale and Nyungwe are June to October and December to March. During these dry seasons, you can expect mild rainfall, making trekking easier and providing better visibility for photography. In contrast, the wetter months of April, May, and November can lead to taller vegetation, making sightings more challenging. However, during these months, the treks may be shorter since chimpanzees tend to stay close to food sources.
Kibale Forest National Park has more chimpanzee families available for trekking than Nyungwe, which can enhance your chances of a fulfilling experience.
Kibale National Park: Extended Encounters with Chimpanzees
Kibale National Park stands out for its chimpanzee habituation experience, allowing visitors to spend more time with semi-habituated chimpanzees. Starting from July 1, 2024, through June 30, 2026, the chimpanzee habituation permits offer an enhanced encounter. The costs are as follows:
- $300 for non-foreign residents
- $250 for foreign residents
- 250,000 Ugandan Shillings for East African Community citizens
This experience provides several hours of observation under the guidance of trackers and researchers, compared to the standard one-hour duration for regular trekking.
Accessing Kibale Forest National Park
By Road:
Kibale Forest National Park is easily accessible via the main safari circuit. From Entebbe or Kampala, the drive to Fort Portal takes about 4-5 hours. Alternatively, you can take the Kampala-Mbarara-Kasese highway, connecting to Kibale with a 1-2 hour drive from Kasese.
By Air:
Scheduled and chartered flights are available from Entebbe International Airport or Kajjansi Airfield to Kasese Airstrip. After landing, you’ll need to arrange a transfer to Kibale with your tour operator.
Accessing Nyungwe Forest National Park
By Road:
Nyungwe Forest National Park can be reached from Kigali via the Kivu Gisenyi route, which takes about 5-6 hours. Alternatively, you can use the Kigali-Gisenyi highway, leading to Nyungwe with an additional 1-2 hour drive.
By Air:
You can fly from Kigali International Airport to Rusizi/Kamembe Airport, located 55 km (34 mi) from Nyungwe. After your flight, arrange for a transfer to the park through your tour operator.
Accommodation Options for Chimpanzee Trekking
In Kibale Forest National Park:
There are various accommodation choices to suit different budgets:
- Budget Options (USD 90-100 per person per night): Chimpanzee Forest Guest House, Isunga Lodge, Rwenzori View Guest House, Kibale Home Stay.
- Mid-Range Options (USD 150-200 per person per night): Kibale Forest Camp, Turaco Treetops Lodge, Prime Lodge Kibale.
- Luxury Options (USD 250-700 per person per night): Ndali Lodge, Crater Safari Lodge, Papaya Lake Lodge, Kyaninga Lodge.
In Nyungwe Forest National Park:
You’ll find a range of accommodations as well:
- Budget Options (USD 90-100 per person per night): Nyungwe Guest House, Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel, Gisakura Guest House.
- Mid-Range Options (USD 150-200 per person per night): Nyungwe Top View Hill Hotel.
- Luxury Option (USD 500-1,000 per person per night): One&Only Nyungwe House.
Why Book Your Trek with Excursia Adventures?
At Excursia Adventures, we specialize in creating customized, tailor-made safaris to Uganda and Rwanda. Our dedicated and trustworthy team is committed to providing exceptional service. When you reach out to us, expect a prompt response within 30 minutes from our professional tour consultants. They will craft a travel plan tailored to your preferences, answer any questions you may have, and ensure that all services are booked in advance to avoid any inconveniences. Our knowledgeable safari guides are available in multiple languages to enhance your experience.
Feel free to contact us to plan your unforgettable chimpanzee trekking adventure!
