Uganda is one of the best countries in Africa to see wild chimpanzees. Most visitors go to Kibale, but there are three other good places to track them, and the right one depends on your route.
1. Kibale National Park — the best sightings
Often called the primate capital of East Africa, Kibale has around 1,500 chimpanzees and a dozen other primate species. Sightings rates are the highest in the country. The permit is US$250 in 2026, rising to US$300 from January 2027. It’s also the only place offering the full-day Chimpanzee Habituation Experience.
Best for: anyone whose priority is chimps, and routes heading to Queen Elizabeth or Bwindi.
2. Budongo Forest — for Murchison Falls trips
Budongo is a large mahogany forest at the southern edge of the Murchison Falls Conservation Area. Chimp treks start from Kaniyo Pabidi, and it fits perfectly into a northern route to Murchison Falls. Budongo is a forest reserve managed by the National Forestry Authority rather than the Uganda Wildlife Authority, so its permits are priced separately. We’ll quote the current rate with your trip.
Best for: travellers combining chimps with a Murchison Falls safari.
3. Kyambura Gorge — the “Valley of Apes”
A sunken, forested gorge inside Queen Elizabeth National Park, home to a small chimp community. It’s dramatic scenery, but because the community is small, sightings are less certain than in Kibale. The permit is US$100 in 2026 and doubles to US$200 from January 2027.
Best for: adding a chimp walk to a Queen Elizabeth safari, as a bonus rather than the main event.
4. Kalinzu Forest — the quieter alternative
A forest reserve next to Queen Elizabeth National Park, managed by Uganda’s National Forestry Authority rather than UWA. It sees far fewer visitors, and is a good option when Kibale permits are sold out.
Best for: travellers who want fewer crowds, or need a back-up option.
Our advice
If chimps matter to you, go to Kibale. If you’re heading to Murchison, Budongo is the natural fit. Wherever you go, the minimum age for chimpanzee tracking is 12. Tell us your route and we’ll pick the forest and secure the permit.
