Uganda · West
Kibale National Park
A tall, humid forest near Fort Portal that is home to Uganda's best known chimpanzee trekking and a dozen other primates. It is the natural partner to a gorilla trek.
At a glance
- Where: Western Uganda, near Fort Portal.
- Size: About 795 square kilometres of forest.
- Best for: Chimpanzee trekking, primates, birds and forest walks.
- From Kampala: About five to six hours by road.
- Suggested stay: One to two nights.
Chimpanzee trekking
The park holds one of the largest chimpanzee populations in Uganda, in the region of 1,500 animals. Groups of up to six visitors follow a ranger guide to a habituated chimpanzee community and spend one hour with it. Treks run in the morning and the afternoon. The minimum age for chimpanzee trekking is 12. Our chimpanzee trekking guide explains how treks differ across Uganda.
You will normally find chimpanzees, but they roam widely and a sighting is never promised. Your ranger guides track them from the early morning.
Chimpanzee habituation experience
For a longer encounter, the habituation experience lets small groups follow chimpanzees that are still getting used to people, from early morning for much of the day. It is a tiring day and suits keen walkers with a strong interest in the animals' behaviour. The minimum age is higher than for a standard trek, and we confirm the current rule when you ask for a quote.
Other primates and wildlife
Kibale is often called the primate capital of Uganda. Besides chimpanzees you may see red colobus, black-and-white colobus, L'Hoest's monkeys, red-tailed monkeys and grey-cheeked mangabeys. The forest also has elephants and many birds, though they are harder to spot than in the savannah parks.
The Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary next to the park is a community-run walk on a raised boardwalk. It is one of the best places in Uganda for primates and birds on a gentle path, and it supports local households.
Best time to visit
Chimpanzee trekking runs all year. The drier months, December to February and June to July, give firmer trails. Rain falls often in the forest at any time of year, so bring a light waterproof and shoes with grip.
Combining Kibale with gorillas
Kibale sits between Murchison Falls and Queen Elizabeth on the usual western loop. Our 3-day chimpanzee trekking safari covers Kibale on its own. To add gorillas, see the 5-day gorilla and chimpanzee safari or the 10-day best of Uganda safari.
Wildlife you may see
Frequently asked questions
Is chimpanzee trekking harder than gorilla trekking?
It is often more active, because chimpanzees move quickly and sometimes stay high in the trees. The terrain is usually flatter than Bwindi.
Can I trek chimpanzees and gorillas on the same trip?
Yes. Most western loops include both, with Kibale or Kyambura for chimpanzees and Bwindi or Mgahinga for gorillas.
What should I bring?
Long trousers, a light waterproof, shoes with grip, a hat and insect repellent. Binoculars help in the canopy.
Ready to trek? Ask for your quote.
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