Chimpanzee Trekking in Rwanda & Uganda

Walk Through the Forest and Meet Our Closest Relatives 

There is something profoundly moving about locking eyes with a wild chimpanzee in its natural habitat. Unlike gorillas, chimpanzees are energetic, vocal, and constantly in motion. They swing through the canopy, communicate loudly across the forest, and display an intelligence that feels strikingly familiar. 

Chimpanzee trekking in Rwanda and Uganda offers a rare opportunity to observe these fascinating primates up close in protected rainforest ecosystems. At Silverback Gorilla Tours, we design expertly guided chimpanzee tracking experiences that combine adventure, conservation, and unforgettable wildlife encounters. 

Whether you are planning a full primate safari in Africa or adding chimpanzee trekking to your gorilla adventure, this experience brings you deeper into the heart of East Africa’s biodiversity. 

Why Choose Chimpanzee Trekking in East Africa? 

Uganda and Rwanda are among the best destinations in Africa for chimpanzee tracking. The forests here are home to habituated chimpanzee communities that are monitored daily by researchers and park rangers, allowing visitors to observe them safely and responsibly. 

Chimpanzee trekking offers: 

• Close encounters with wild chimpanzees 
• Active and dynamic forest experiences 
• Incredible wildlife photography opportunities 
• Rich rainforest biodiversity 
• Guided educational insights into primate behavior 

Unlike traditional game drives, chimpanzee trekking involves walking through lush tropical forests, following vocal calls and movement cues until you locate a troop. The search itself is part of the adventure. 

Best Destinations for Chimpanzee Trekking 

Kibale Forest National Park (Uganda) – The Primate Capital of the World 

Kibale Forest is widely recognized as the best chimpanzee trekking destination in Africa. Home to over 1,500 chimpanzees and 13 primate species, it offers some of the highest success rates for chimp sightings. 

The forest is dense, vibrant, and alive with sound. As you trek through towering trees and thick undergrowth, your guide listens carefully for distant pant-hoots and branch movements. Once the chimpanzees are located, you spend one unforgettable hour observing their social interactions, grooming habits, playful behavior, and complex communication. 

Kibale is ideal for travelers who want the most reliable chimpanzee trekking experience in Uganda. 

Budongo Forest (Uganda) – Intimate & Less Crowded 

Located near Murchison Falls National Park, Budongo Forest offers a quieter chimpanzee trekking experience. This mahogany-rich forest provides excellent opportunities for both chimpanzee sightings and bird watching. 

Budongo is perfect for travelers combining chimpanzee trekking with a classic savannah safari in Murchison Falls. 

Nyungwe Forest National Park (Rwanda) – Canopy & Primate Diversity 

Nyungwe Forest in Rwanda is one of Africa’s oldest rainforests and home to a significant population of chimpanzees. Trekking here is more physically demanding due to the mountainous terrain, but the scenery is spectacular. 

Chimpanzee trekking in Nyungwe often begins early in the morning, as chimps are most active at dawn. The experience may involve hiking steep forest trails, but the reward is witnessing energetic troops feeding, calling, and moving through the canopy. 

Nyungwe also offers a unique Canopy Walk, which adds an adventurous element to your Rwanda safari. 

What to Expect During a Chimpanzee Trek 

Chimpanzee trekking begins early, usually around sunrise. After a briefing by park rangers, small groups enter the forest with experienced guides. 

The trek can last between 2 to 4 hours depending on the movement of the chimpanzee troop. Unlike gorillas, chimpanzees are highly active and may travel quickly through the forest. A moderate level of fitness is recommended. 

Once located, visitors are allowed one hour with the chimpanzees. During this time, you may observe: 

• Grooming rituals 
• Feeding behavior 
• Territorial vocalizations 
• Playful juveniles 
• Social hierarchy interactions 

The energy and vocal communication of chimpanzees make this one of the most dynamic wildlife experiences in Africa. 

Chimpanzee Trekking vs. Gorilla Trekking 

Many travelers ask about the difference between chimpanzee trekking and gorilla trekking. 

Gorilla trekking offers a calm, intimate encounter with gentle giants who move slowly and allow quiet observation. 

Chimpanzee trekking is more active and fast-paced. The chimps climb trees, leap between branches, and communicate loudly, creating a vibrant forest atmosphere. 

For the ultimate primate safari in Africa, we recommend combining both experiences in one itinerary. 

Best Time for Chimpanzee Trekking 

Chimpanzee trekking is available year-round in Rwanda and Uganda. However, the best trekking conditions are typically during the dry seasons: 

• June to September 
• December to February 

During wetter months, trails may be muddy, but forest photography becomes even more dramatic with mist and lush greenery. 

Our team will advise you on the best timing based on your overall safari itinerary. 

Permits & Booking Information 

Chimpanzee trekking requires an official permit issued by wildlife authorities in Uganda or Rwanda. Permits are limited daily to protect the primates and their habitat. 

Advance booking is strongly recommended, especially during peak travel seasons. Silverback Gorilla Tours handles all permit arrangements and logistical coordination, ensuring a smooth experience from start to finish. 

Combining Chimpanzee Trekking with Other Safari Experiences 

Chimpanzee trekking integrates seamlessly with other East African adventures, including: 

• Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi or Volcanoes National Park 

• Wildlife Safari in Queen Elizabeth National Park 

• Shoebill Bird Watching in Mabamba Swamp 

• Mountain Hiking in the Virunga Volcanoes 

• Cultural Tours with local communities 

A well-designed itinerary allows you to experience multiple ecosystems — rainforest, savannah, wetlands, and volcanic highlands — in one unforgettable journey. 

Responsible & Ethical Primate Tourism 

At Silverback Gorilla Tours, conservation is at the core of every experience. We strictly follow wildlife guidelines to ensure chimpanzees remain undisturbed in their natural habitat. 

Visitors must maintain a safe distance, avoid flash photography, and follow ranger instructions at all times. Your permit fees directly contribute to conservation programs and community development initiatives that protect these primates for future generations. 

Who Is Chimpanzee Trekking Ideal For? 

Chimpanzee trekking is perfect for: 

• Wildlife enthusiasts 
• Nature photographers 
• Adventure travelers 
• Families with older children 
• Researchers and conservation supporters 
• Visitors combining multiple primate experiences 

No technical skills are required, but a moderate level of fitness enhances enjoyment. 

Essential Preparation Tips 

To ensure a comfortable chimpanzee trekking experience, we recommend: 

• Sturdy hiking boots 

• Long-sleeved clothing 

• Lightweight rain jacket 

• Insect repellent 

• Garden gloves (for gripping vegetation) 

• Small backpack with water 

Porters are available to assist with carrying gear and supporting local employment. 

Experience the Energy of the Rainforest 

The forest grows quieter as your guide signals that the troop is near. Suddenly, branches shake above you. A juvenile swings overhead. A dominant male calls loudly across the canopy. The forest feels alive. 

Chimpanzee trekking in Rwanda and Uganda is not simply wildlife viewing — it is a powerful reminder of our connection to the natural world. 

Let Silverback Gorilla Tours guide you through one of Africa’s most thrilling primate experiences. Whether combined with gorilla trekking or enjoyed as a standalone adventure, chimpanzee tracking adds depth, energy, and unforgettable memories to your safari. 

Contact us today to reserve your Chimpanzee Trekking Tour in Rwanda or Uganda. 

Your primate safari adventure begins here.