2 Days Chimpanzee Tracking Safari in Uganda
Uganda offers exceptional wildlife experiences, and one of the most exciting is chimpanzee tracking. This 2-day safari takes you deep into the heart of Uganda’s lush forests, where you will encounter one of humanity’s closest relatives in their natural habitat. This short yet thrilling adventure is perfect for those looking to experience the beauty of Uganda’s forests, wildlife, and biodiversity within a limited timeframe. This itinerary will focus on chimpanzee trekking in either Kibale Forest National Park or Kalinzu Forest Reserve, two of the best places in Uganda for this activity.
Money spent on a safari in Africa is money invested.
Hafasha Keneth – KCI Institute
Day 1: Arrival and Transfer to the Forest
Your 2-day safari begins with a morning pick-up from Kampala or Entebbe. After meeting your driver/guide, you’ll embark on a scenic drive towards either Kibale Forest or Kalinzu Forest. The journey takes approximately 5 to 6 hours depending on your destination. During the drive, you will pass through rolling green hills, lush tea plantations, and rural Ugandan villages, offering plenty of opportunities for sightseeing along the way.
A stopover at a local restaurant provides you with the chance to enjoy a delicious Ugandan meal and stretch your legs. The trip to Kibale Forest may also include a brief stop at the Fort Portal town, famous for its stunning crater lakes and cultural heritage.
You’ll arrive at your lodge near the forest in the late afternoon, just in time to settle in and relax. Depending on your energy levels and arrival time, you may opt for an optional evening nature walk or community visit around the area to familiarize yourself with the surroundings. Dinner will be served at your lodge, and you’ll have a good night’s rest in preparation for the next day’s thrilling chimpanzee trek.
Day 2: Chimpanzee Tracking Experience
On your second day, wake up early for a hearty breakfast before heading to the park headquarters or the forest reserve’s reception area. The chimpanzee trekking adventure begins with a briefing session from the park rangers. Here, you’ll learn the safety guidelines, rules for interacting with the chimpanzees, and important information about the forest and its wildlife.
Chimpanzee tracking usually starts around 8:00 AM. Armed with the knowledge from your briefing, you will join a small group of fellow trekkers and an experienced guide to set off into the forest in search of the chimpanzees. The trek itself can last anywhere between 2 to 4 hours depending on where the chimpanzees are located that day.
As you trek through the forest’s dense foliage, you’ll have the chance to spot a variety of other wildlife including blue monkeys, red-tailed monkeys, and numerous bird species. The guide will provide insights into the ecology and behavior of these forest creatures as you walk through the towering trees and across streams.
When you finally encounter a troop of chimpanzees, you will spend one unforgettable hour observing their behavior. Watch as they swing through the trees, groom each other, feed, and play. The experience of watching these intelligent primates up close is humbling and exhilarating.
Return to Kampala or Entebbe
After the chimpanzee trekking experience, return to the starting point where you’ll have time to freshen up and enjoy a packed lunch. If you’re tracking in Kibale Forest, you might also visit the Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, which offers great birding and additional primate sightings. For those in Kalinzu Forest, you may opt for a brief visit to the nearby Queen Elizabeth National Park for a scenic drive before starting the return journey.
In the afternoon, begin your drive back to Kampala or Entebbe, reflecting on the incredible experience you’ve just had in Uganda’s wilderness. Your guide will drop you off at your hotel or the airport, concluding your 2-day chimpanzee tracking safari.
What to Expect
- Close-up encounters with wild chimpanzees in their natural habitat.
- Scenic drives through Uganda’s countryside and tea plantations.
- Opportunities to spot other primates, birds, and forest wildlife.
- Guided trek through pristine forests filled with towering trees and lush vegetation.
What to Pack
- Comfortable hiking boots and long-sleeved clothing.
- A rain jacket or poncho, especially during the rainy season.
- Binoculars for better wildlife viewing.
- Insect repellent and sunscreen.
- A camera with a non-flash setting for taking pictures of the chimpanzees.
Tour Inclusions
- Round-trip transportation from Kampala or Entebbe.
- Accommodation for one night.
- Meals during the safari.
- Chimpanzee trekking permit.
- Experienced tour guide and park ranger fees.
This 2-day chimpanzee tracking safari is an excellent choice for nature lovers, adventurers, and anyone with a keen interest in primates and with a busy schedule. Whether in the depths of Kibale Forest or the beautiful Kalinzu Reserve, this safari offers an intimate glimpse into the world of chimpanzees and the untamed beauty of Uganda’s landscapes.
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Email: info@kenlinktours.com OR inquiries@kenlinktours.com
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