There is something extraordinary about locking eyes with a wild chimpanzee.
Unlike gorillas, chimpanzees are energetic, vocal, and constantly on the move. The forest echoes with their calls, branches shake overhead, and suddenly you’re standing beneath a troop of our closest relatives in the wild.
Chimpanzee trekking in Africa is an exciting, fast-paced primate adventure — and one of the most rewarding wildlife experiences you can have.
At Silverback Gorilla Tours, we organize unforgettable Chimpanzee trekking safaris in Uganda and Rwanda, combining expert guiding, conservation awareness, and seamless travel planning.
Where to Go Chimpanzee Trekking in Uganda & Rwanda
Chimpanzees are found in several protected forests across East Africa, but the best destinations include:
Chimpanzee Trekking in Kibale Forest National Park (Uganda)
Kibale Forest is known as the “Primate Capital of the World.”
It is the most popular destination for Chimpanzee trekking in Uganda, with a high success rate of sightings.
Why choose Kibale?
- Large habituated chimpanzee communities
- High tracking success (over 90%)
- Beautiful tropical rainforest ecosystem
- Opportunity to see 12+ other primate species
Budongo Forest – Murchison Falls (Uganda)
Located near Murchison Falls National Park, Budongo Forest offers a quieter and equally rewarding chimpanzee trekking experience.
Perfect for travelers combining primates with a classic wildlife safari.
Chimpanzee Trekking in Nyungwe Forest (Rwanda)
Nyungwe Forest National Park offers a unique Rwanda chimpanzee trekking tour experience.
Highlights include:
- Early morning forest tracking
- Scenic canopy walk
- Rich biodiversity
Nyungwe is ideal for travelers seeking a combined Rwanda primate safari.
What to Expect During a Chimpanzee Trekking Safari
Your day begins early with a ranger briefing before entering the forest.
Unlike gorillas, chimpanzees move quickly and can travel long distances. Tracking them can be more dynamic and adventurous.
You may hear them before you see them — loud pant-hoots echoing through the trees.
When you find them, you’ll observe:
- Chimpanzees grooming each other
- Feeding in treetops
- Playing energetically
- Communicating with complex vocalizations
You are typically allowed one hour with the chimpanzees once located.
Because they are active and often in trees, photography requires patience and quick reflexes.
How to Prepare for Chimpanzee Trekking
Preparation is key for a comfortable experience.
What to Wear
- Long-sleeved clothing
- Hiking boots
- Waterproof jacket
- Insect repellent
- Hat & sunscreen
- Camera (no flash)
Important: No-Flash Photography Rule
During Chimpanzee trekking in Africa, flash photography is strictly prohibited.
Flash can disturb chimpanzees and alter their natural behavior.
Because tracking often happens under forest canopy, a camera with strong low-light performance is highly recommended.
Natural lighting preserves both the moment and the well-being of the animals.
Age & Health Guidelines for Chimpanzee Trekking
To protect both visitors and primates, strict rules apply.
Minimum Age :
The minimum age for chimpanzee trekking in Uganda and Rwanda is typically 12–15 years, depending on the park.
Health Policy:
Chimpanzees are highly susceptible to human diseases.
If you are feeling unwell — even with a cold or flu — you may not be permitted to trek.
This protects the chimpanzees and supports responsible primate tourism.
Chimpanzee Trekking Permit Cost:
A valid chimpanzee trekking permit is required.
Approximate permit prices:
- Kibale Forest (Uganda): $250 per person
- Budongo Forest: $130–$150
- Nyungwe Forest (Rwanda): $150
Permit fees contribute directly to:
- Forest conservation
- Research programs
- Anti-poaching patrols
- Community development
Responsible chimpanzee tourism in Africa supports long-term conservation success.
Best Time for Chimpanzee Trekking in Africa
Chimpanzee trekking is available year-round.
Best seasons:
- June to September
- December to February
Dry seasons offer easier hiking trails, but chimpanzees can be tracked in all months.
Combine Chimpanzee Trekking with Gorilla Trekking
Many travelers combine:
- Gorilla trekking in Bwindi
- Chimpanzee trekking in Kibale
- Wildlife safari in Queen Elizabeth National Park
This creates one of the most complete Uganda primate safari packages available.
Popular Chimpanzee Trekking Packages
3-Day Kibale Chimpanzee Trekking Safari
Starting from $950 per person
Perfect for short primate-focused travel.
5-Day Uganda Primates Safari
Starting from $2,200 per person
Includes:
- Gorilla trekking
- Chimpanzee trekking
- Wildlife safari
One of the best-value Uganda safari tours.
Luxury Primate Safaris
From $3,000+ per person
Stay in high-end eco-lodges with private guides and premium safari vehicles.
Why Choose Silverback Gorilla Tours?
- Guaranteed permits
- Expert local guides
- Custom itineraries
- Seamless cross-park logistics
- Transparent pricing
We handle all permits, accommodation, transfers, and park arrangements so you can focus entirely on your chimpanzee trekking adventure.
Start Your Chimpanzee Trekking Safari in Africa
Watching wild chimpanzees leap through the forest canopy, hearing their calls echo through ancient trees — it’s an experience that awakens something primal and unforgettable.
If you’re ready to experience chimpanzee trekking in Uganda or Rwanda, now is the time to secure your permit.
Contact Silverback Gorilla Tours today to begin planning your unforgettable primate safari.
