When you arrive at Kibale Forest, you’ll step into one of Africa’s richest rainforests. Known as the “Primate Capital of the World,” Kibale is home to 13 different primate species, including the famous wild chimpanzees. The forest is full of life—swinging monkeys, colorful birds, and the sounds of the jungle all around you. On your first day, enjoy a peaceful walk through the Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, where you’ll spot monkeys, birds, and learn about local culture from community guides. On the second day, set off on an exciting trek into the forest to find wild chimpanzees. This magical moment—watching chimps play, groom, and swing through the trees—is something you’ll never forget. With comfortable accommodation, great food, and expert guides, this trip is perfect for anyone who loves nature, wildlife, and adventure.
Your adventure begins in the morning with a warm welcome and a short briefing from your guide. You’ll then set off for the beautiful Kibale Forest National Park. Along the way, enjoy a scenic drive through charming villages, thick rainforests, green tea plantations, and sparkling crater lakes. If the skies are clear, you may even catch stunning views of the Rwenzori Mountains, their snowy peaks rising in the distance like something out of a storybook.
By the time you arrive at Kibale, you’ll feel like you’ve entered another world—a vibrant forest filled with movement and sound. This is truly a “monkey world,” where the trees are alive with leaping primates and the air buzzes with the sounds of the wild.
After checking into your lodge and relaxing a bit, you’ll head out for the Bigodi Swamp Walk.
Bigodi Swamp Walk
Located just outside the park, the Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary is a community-run reserve full of wildlife. With a local guide, you’ll walk along wooden boardwalks and forest paths through the lush swamp. In the late afternoon, the area comes alive with monkeys like red colobus, red-tailed, and L’Hoest’s monkeys. You’ll also spot many colorful birds and learn about the plants and traditions of the local people. It’s a peaceful, eye-opening walk and a perfect way to begin your forest experience.
Kibale Forest National Park
Kibale is one of Africa’s best places to see primates. The forest is home to 13 different kinds of monkeys and apes, including red-tailed monkeys, black-and-white colobus, red colobus, mangabeys, and the shy, night-loving galagos. The cool forest is surrounded by tea farms and papyrus swamps, creating a rich mix of landscapes and habitats. It’s also a dream for bird lovers, especially near Bigodi. This magical forest is full of surprises, making it a highlight of your journey in Uganda.
Accommodation Options:
Budget – Kibale Forest Camp (Non-Self-Contained Tents, Full Board)
Mid-Range – Turaco Treetops (Standard Cottage, Full Board)
Semi-Luxury – Turaco Treetops (Luxury Cottage, Full Board)
Luxury – Crater Safari Lodge (Full Board)
Today is the highlight of your safari—tracking wild chimpanzees in Kibale Forest! After an early breakfast, you’ll set off into the jungle with expert trackers to search for our closest animal relatives. Along the way, you might also spot other monkeys, colorful birds, and the lush beauty of this ancient rainforest.
Chimpanzee Trekking in Kibale Forest
This is an unforgettable experience. As you walk through the cool, green forest, you’ll hear loud calls, hoots, and screams echoing through the trees—signs that a chimpanzee group is nearby. Suddenly, the chimps appear, swinging from branches or walking through the forest floor right in front of you. Watching them groom, play, and interact is both exciting and emotional. Kibale is the best place in Africa to see wild chimpanzees, and sightings are very likely.
After the trek, you’ll return to the lodge for a delicious lunch and a short rest. Then it’s time to begin your journey back to Kampala or Entebbe. The drive takes you through Uganda’s beautiful countryside—green hills, tea plantations, and friendly villages. You may stop for souvenirs or a snack along the way. By evening, you’ll arrive at your final destination, ending your amazing Kibale Forest adventure with memories to last a lifetime.