Uganda Primate Safaris – Gorilla & Chimpanzee Trekking Adventures

There is no skill required to go primate trekking in Uganda. Only hard work, commitment, and the right hiking gear are needed to make it to the primates and back to the starting point.

Several primates can be sighted during your safari in Uganda, even when engaging in other activities. That is just how easy it is to see primates in Uganda.

About Mountain Gorillas in Uganda

Mountain gorillas are huge, gentle creatures that share 98% of human genes. In the whole world, these creatures can only be found in Uganda, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Rwanda.

Uganda, however, harbors half of the mountain gorillas in the national parks of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park and Mgahinga National Park.

Tracking mountain gorillas in Uganda costs $800 for foreign non-residents, $800 for foreign residents, and 300,000 UGX for Ugandans/East African citizens.

The activity can last up to six hours, with one hour of direct viewing, depending on how far the gorillas have moved and your level of fitness.

Along the way, you may encounter other primates such as baboons and vervet monkeys, as well as a variety of bird species, among others, as you traverse the wilderness in search of these primates.

Another option is the gorilla habituation experience in the park, an activity where you can watch and study the unique behaviors of the gorillas. You’ll observe how the silverbacks exercise authority in the jungle and how the mothers care for their young.

This experience takes the whole day and costs $1,500 for foreign non-residents, $1,000 for foreign residents, and 700,000 UGX for Ugandans.

Golden Monkey Trekking and Habituation

Golden monkeys are a unique species of primates with an attractive appearance and fascinating features. Upon seeing them, you may feel like you’re looking at gold in the trees.

They move swiftly from one tree branch to another, playing and attentively interacting with each other. They excite travelers with their incredible moves, some of which are difficult to capture on camera unless you are very alert and focused.

Golden monkey trekking is only done in Mgahinga National Park, costing $100 for both foreign non-residents and foreign residents, while Ugandans pay 40,000 UGX.

Chimpanzee Trekking in Uganda

Uganda is home to several chimpanzees that can be tracked in various locations, such as Kibale Forest, which hosts approximately 13 different primate species.

Other primates in Kibale include grey-cheeked mangabeys, L’Hoest’s monkeys, and white colobus monkeys, among others.

Additional destinations for chimpanzee tracking in Uganda include Budongo Forest in Murchison Falls National Park and Kyambura Gorge in Queen Elizabeth National Park.

You can also enjoy a primate walk in Toro-Semliki Wildlife Reserve, among other locations.

Chimpanzee trekking fees vary from one park to another. Kibale Forest National Park charges $250 for foreign non-residents, $200 for foreign residents, and 150,000 UGX for Ugandans.

A chimpanzee habituation experience is also available for those who desire a prolonged encounter with these rare primates. Permits costs $300 per person.

Primate Trekking in Uganda

Primate trekking in Uganda is highly rewarding and offers a unique adventure. Students, honeymooners, researchers, families, and nature enthusiasts can all enjoy this incredible opportunity.

Be informed that there are specific rules and regulations to follow while tracking these wonderful creatures. These include an age limit of 15 years and a restriction that prohibits anyone with the flu, a cough, or any illness from trekking.

In conclusion, Uganda’s primate safaris are some of the most rewarding and adventurous experiences you can have. Don’t miss the chance to visit your “cousins” in the wild. Book your safari today!