Wildlife Reserve · Bushenyi District
Kyambura Wildlife Reserve
Adjoins Queen Elizabeth National Park and shares its Kyambura Gorge chimpanzee community, often called the "Valley of the Apes."
How to get there
Entered from within Queen Elizabeth National Park, a short drive from the Kazinga Channel area.
What to find
Chimpanzee tracking in a steep, riverine gorge distinct from Kibale's flatter forest.
Overview
Kyambura Wildlife Reserve sits on the eastern edge of Queen Elizabeth National Park, and its best-known feature is Kyambura Gorge. This deep, forested gorge, up to 100 m deep, has been cut into the savanna by the Kyambura River.
The gorge shelters an isolated chimpanzee community, together with red-tailed monkeys, black-and-white colobus and olive baboons. The surrounding reserve has crater lakes that sometimes attract flamingos, and savanna shared with Queen Elizabeth's wildlife.
Highlights
- Chimpanzee tracking in the dramatic 'Valley of the Apes'
- Viewpoints on the gorge rim, looking down into the forest canopy
- Crater lakes and savanna birdlife
- Easy to combine with game drives and the Kazinga Channel
Things to do
Kyambura Gorge chimp tracking
US$100 in 2026, rising to US$200 from January 2027. Sightings are less certain than in Kibale.
Gorge walk
Even without chimps, it's a beautiful riverine forest walk.
Birding
Forest and savanna species meet here.
Best time to visit
All year. Early morning treks give the best chance of finding the chimps.
Getting there
Reached from within Queen Elizabeth National Park, about 30 minutes from the Kazinga Channel and Mweya.
Where to stay
Several upmarket lodges overlook the gorge and the savanna, and there are mid-range options near the Kasenyi and Mweya areas.
Queen Elizabeth National Park
A selection of well-known options, not a complete list. See all accommodation in Uganda →
Good to know
- The descent into the gorge is steep, so wear shoes with good grip.
- Treat Kyambura as a bonus. For guaranteed chimp time, add Kibale.
Permit prices, park rules and access can change. We always confirm the latest details when we plan your trip.