Safari/ Tour to See Apes in Uganda

Safari/ Tour to See Apes in Uganda: A Once-in-a-Lifetime Experience

Safari/ Tour to See Apes in Uganda — Embark on a truly unforgettable adventure in Uganda, one of Africa’s top safari destinations. Uganda is renowned for its primates, offering a rare opportunity to see Mountain Gorillas, Chimpanzees, Golden Monkeys, and other species of monkeys in their natural habitats. Whether you’re traveling on a budget or indulging in luxury, Uganda offers an array of exciting activities for all types of travelers. Let us guide you through the top experiences and deals for a budget-friendly ape safari in Uganda.

Top Things to Do on a Budget-Friendly Ape Safari in Uganda

From incredible primate encounters to rich cultural experiences, Uganda has something for everyone. Here are the 10 must-do activities on a low-budget safari to see Uganda’s iconic apes.

1. Primate Tracking: A Top Safari Activity

Uganda is home to diverse primate species, including Mountain Gorillas, Chimpanzees, and Golden Monkeys. Primate tracking is one of the most popular activities and allows you to explore lush forests in search of these incredible creatures. This activity includes Gorilla Trekking, Chimpanzee Trekking, and Golden Monkey Trekking, all conducted in small groups to ensure a personal experience.

2. Gorilla Trekking in Uganda

Gorilla trekking in Uganda is a bucket-list experience. You’ll embark on a safari to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, two of the best places to see Mountain Gorillas. To participate, you’ll need a gorilla permit, which costs:

• USD 800 for foreign non-residents
• USD 700 for East African residents
• USD 80 for East African citizens

This permit allows you one hour with the gorillas, though you can also opt for the Gorilla Habituation Experience, which costs USD 1500 for a four-hour encounter with these magnificent animals.

3. Chimpanzee Trekking in Uganda

Chimpanzee trekking is another incredible experience in Uganda, with opportunities to track these playful primates in Kibale Forest National Park, Kyambura Gorge, Kalinzu Forest, and Budongo Forest. Chimpanzee tracking permits are available at:

• USD 250 for foreign non-residents
• USD 200 for residents
• USD 50 for citizens

For a deeper experience, you can opt for Chimpanzee Habituation, which offers a half-day encounter and is only available in Kibale Forest.

4. Golden Monkey Trekking

Golden Monkey trekking is a unique experience in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. A standard permit costs USD 100 for a one-hour encounter with these colorful monkeys, or you can choose a Golden Monkey Habituation experience for USD 140, allowing for a four-hour encounter.

5. Gorilla Habituation Experience

For those seeking a more immersive gorilla experience, the Gorilla Habituation Experience offers up to four hours with semi-habituated mountain gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest. This experience is conducted in small groups of four and provides an intimate, hands-on adventure to observe gorillas in their natural environment.

6. Wildlife Viewing and Game Drives

In addition to primates, Uganda offers exceptional wildlife viewing in its savannah national parks, including Kidepo Valley, Murchison Falls, Lake Mburo, and Queen Elizabeth National Park. On game drives, you’ll encounter tree-climbing lions, elephants, buffaloes, giraffes, leopards, and more.

7. Experiential Tourism Activities

For a unique twist to your safari, consider experiential tourism activities such as lion tracking, mongoose tracking, and hippo census activities, all offered in Queen Elizabeth National Park. These activities bring you closer to wildlife and give you a deeper understanding of their behavior.

8. Cultural Experiences

Uganda is home to over 50 ethnic tribes, each with its own unique customs and traditions. During your safari, you can visit local communities and experience the daily life of people living near national parks. Enjoy traditional dances and learn how locals co-exist peacefully with wildlife.

9. Mountain Hiking and Cycling Adventures

Uganda’s scenic landscapes are perfect for hiking and cycling. Popular hiking destinations include the Rwenzori Mountains, Mount Muhavura, Mount Gahinga, and Mount Elgon. Add a mountain adventure to your safari for an unforgettable experience.

10. Bird Watching: A Birdwatcher’s Paradise

Uganda is one of Africa’s top birding destinations, with over 1,000 recorded species, including Albertine endemics and migrant birds. Key birdwatching areas include Bwindi Forest, Kazinga Channel, and Mabamba Swamp, where you can spot the iconic Shoebill Stork and many other rare species.

11. Boat Safari Excursions

For a different perspective on Uganda’s wildlife, embark on a boat safari along the Kazinga Channel or the River Nile. These boat rides offer incredible views of aquatic wildlife, including hippos, crocodiles, and numerous bird species.

Best Time for a Safari to See Apes in Uganda

The best time to visit Uganda for an ape safari is from June to October and December to February, when the weather is relatively dry. The rainy seasons, from March to May and November, can make trails slippery and wildlife viewing more challenging. However, if you prefer fewer crowds, the rainy season offers a more tranquil experience.

Plan Your Safari to See Apes in Uganda with Excursia Adventures

At Excursia Adventures, we are dedicated to providing unforgettable wildlife experiences while prioritizing the safety and well-being of our guests. Our commitment to sustainable tourism ensures that your trip has a positive impact on local communities and wildlife conservation.

Ready to explore Uganda’s incredible primates and wildlife? Contact us today to start planning your dream safari to see the apes in Uganda.