National Park · Western Uganda
Kibale National Park
One of the highest primate densities in Africa, with some of the best-habituated chimpanzee communities on the continent.
How to get there
By road from Fort Portal, a short drive from the park headquarters at Kanyanchu.
What to find
Chimpanzee tracking, the half-day Chimpanzee Habituation Experience, and the Bigodi wetland walk on the park's edge.
Overview
Kibale National Park protects about 795 km² of moist evergreen forest near Fort Portal, and is widely called the primate capital of East Africa.
It holds around 1,500 chimpanzees and 13 primate species in total, including red colobus, black-and-white colobus, L'Hoest's monkeys and grey-cheeked mangabeys. More than 370 bird species, forest elephants and a rich butterfly population make it just as rewarding for nature lovers.
Highlights
- Chimpanzee tracking with some of Africa's best-habituated communities
- The Chimpanzee Habituation Experience alongside researchers
- The Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, a community-run swamp walk with primates and birds
- The Ndali-Kasenda crater lakes just outside the park
- Golden cat tracking, a brand-new research-based activity from January 2027
Things to do
Chimpanzee tracking
US$250 in 2026 (US$200 in April, May and November), rising to US$300 from January 2027. Minimum age 12.
Chimpanzee habituation
A long day with a community still getting used to people. US$300 in 2026, US$400 from 2027.
Bigodi wetland walk
A guided walk run by the local community, great for primates and the great blue turaco.
Golden cat tracking
New from January 2027, at US$350. Details are still emerging.
Night walks and birding
Look for pottos, galagos and forest birds.
Best time to visit
Chimp tracking is good all year. The drier months (June to September and December to February) mean easier walking, and sightings are strong year-round.
Getting there
Kanyanchu visitor centre is about 35 km from Fort Portal. Fort Portal is about 5 to 6 hours by road from Kampala on a good tarmac road, or reached by a short flight.
Where to stay
Choose from forest-edge lodges near Kanyanchu, or lodges on the crater lakes and around Fort Portal, which make a beautiful base.
Kibale & Fort Portal
A selection of well-known options, not a complete list. See all accommodation in Uganda →
Good to know
- Morning treks often see the most activity.
- Wear long trousers tucked into socks to keep ants out.
- Pair with Queen Elizabeth National Park, just 2 to 3 hours south.
Permit prices, park rules and access can change. We always confirm the latest details when we plan your trip.
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