Combining Chimpanzees and Gorillas in Uganda
Combining Chimpanzees and Gorillas. Combining chimpanzee and gorilla tracking in Uganda offers an unparalleled wildlife experience, immersing you in the rich biodiversity of this East African gem. This dual adventure allows you to observe two of the world’s most fascinating primate species in their natural habitats, all while exploring the stunning landscapes that Uganda has to offer.
Overview of the Experience
Uganda is home to over half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas, primarily found in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Chimpanzees, on the other hand, can be spotted in several locations, including Kibale National Park, which is renowned for its high concentration of these primates. A combined safari typically starts in the vibrant capital, Kampala, and then moves to the various parks.
Itinerary Highlights
- Kampala to Kibale National Park: Start your adventure with a journey to Kibale National Park, known for its lush rainforest and diverse wildlife. Upon arrival, you can settle into your chosen accommodation, ranging from budget lodges to luxury resorts. The following day, embark on a guided chimpanzee tracking expedition. You’ll hike through the dense forest, with experienced guides helping you locate and observe the chimps as they swing through the trees and interact with each other. The thrill of spotting these intelligent creatures in their natural habitat is unforgettable.
- Exploring Kibale: Beyond chimpanzees, Kibale is home to various primates, including red-tailed monkeys, black-and-white colobus, and the rare L’Hoest’s monkey. Consider taking a nature walk or a guided night safari to discover the park’s nocturnal wildlife.
- Traveling to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park: After your chimpanzee adventure, head to Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The journey takes approximately 5-6 hours, offering stunning views of the rolling hills and terraced farms along the way.
- Gorilla Trekking: The highlight of your safari is gorilla tracking. Early the next morning, you’ll set off for your tracking experience. With a permit costing about $700, you’ll spend time hiking through the forest, guided by experienced rangers, until you find a gorilla family. Once located, you can spend up to one hour observing these magnificent creatures as they interact, groom, and play. The encounter is often described as life-changing, offering a unique connection to nature.
- Cultural Experiences: Enhance your safari by engaging with local communities. Many tours include visits to nearby villages, where you can learn about traditional customs, crafts, and the challenges of living in proximity to wildlife.
Accommodation Options
Both Kibale and Bwindi offer a variety of accommodation choices. In Kibale, options range from budget guesthouses to mid-range lodges, while Bwindi boasts luxurious eco-lodges with stunning views of the forest. It’s advisable to book accommodations well in advance, especially during peak seasons.
A combined chimpanzee and gorilla tracking safari can range from approximately $2,000 to $4,000 per person, depending on the length of the trip, choice of accommodations, transportation, and additional activities. This estimate typically includes permits, accommodation, and meals but excludes international flights.
How long do i need to visit Gorillas and Chimpanzees in Uganda?
If you are planning to do a gorilla and chimpanzee safari in Uganda, you need to plan or at least 4-6 days of the safari. In your planning, you need to to have two days of complete trekking and then at least 3 days of transfers. Below is a sample of the itinerary;
- Day 1: Drive to Bwindi or Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
- Day 2: Gorilla trekking experience.
- Day 3: Drive to Kibale Forest National Park for Chimpanzee Tracking
- Day 4: Chimpanzee Trekking and Bigodi Community/Swamp Walk
- Day 5: Drive back to Kampala /Entebbe.
