Chimpanzee Trekking Permits in Uganda

Chimpanzee trekking in Uganda offers one of the most immersive and emotional wildlife experiences on the continent. It’s an adventure that combines exploration with intimacy — stepping into lush tropical forests to meet our closest living relatives in their natural habitat. To protect these intelligent primates and ensure sustainable tourism, chimpanzee trekking in Uganda requires an official chimpanzee trekking permit, issued by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA).

Understanding how permits work, where to get them, and what they include is essential for planning a successful and rewarding chimpanzee trekking experience.

Where to Trek Chimpanzees in Uganda

Uganda is home to several world-renowned chimpanzee tracking destinations, but the most popular ones are:

• Kibale Forest National Park – The primate capital of East Africa and the best place for reliable chimp sightings.

• Budongo Forest Reserve – Located near Murchison Falls National Park, ideal for combining chimp trekking with a savannah safari.

• Kyambura Gorge – The dramatic “Valley of the Apes” inside Queen Elizabeth National Park, offering adventurous treks through a scenic ravine.

• Kalinzu Forest Reserve – A community-managed forest near Bushenyi, known for affordable permits and beautiful birdlife.

Each location offers a distinct experience, but all require a valid chimpanzee trekking permit before entry.

Chimpanzee Trekking Permit Costs

The cost of a chimpanzee trekking permit in Uganda depends on the location and the type of experience. As of 2025, the official Uganda Wildlife Authority rates are approximately:

• Kibale Forest National Park:

  • Foreign Non-Residents: USD 250 per person

  • Foreign Residents: USD 200 per person

  • East African Citizens: UGX 180,000

• Budongo Forest Reserve (Kaniyo Pabidi):

  • Foreign Non-Residents: USD 130 per person

  • Foreign Residents: USD 120 per person

  • East African Citizens: UGX 85,000

• Kyambura Gorge (Queen Elizabeth National Park):

  • Foreign Non-Residents: USD 100 per person

  • Foreign Residents: USD 80 per person

  • East African Citizens: UGX 50,000

• Kalinzu Forest Reserve:

  • Foreign Non-Residents: USD 50 per person

  • Foreign Residents: USD 50 per person

  • East African Citizens: UGX 30,000

Note: Prices are subject to change by the Uganda Wildlife Authority, so it’s always best to confirm current rates before booking.

How to Obtain a Chimpanzee Trekking Permit

Chimpanzee trekking permits are issued and regulated by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA). You can secure your permit in two main ways:

1. Through an Authorized Tour Operator or Safari Company – Most travelers prefer this option, as reputable tour operators handle the entire process, ensuring your permit is reserved in advance and included in your itinerary.

2. Directly from UWA Headquarters in Kampala – You can visit the Uganda Wildlife Authority offices at Plot 7, Kira Road, Kampala, to make a booking. However, due to high demand, permits for Kibale and Budongo should be booked at least 2–3 months in advance.

When booking, you’ll need to provide your passport details and preferred trekking date. Permits are non-transferable and valid only for the specific date and location issued.

What the Permit Includes

A chimpanzee trekking permit in Uganda typically includes:

• Entry to the national park or forest reserve

• Ranger and guide fees

• A one-hour viewing experience with the chimpanzees (after locating them)

• Safety briefing and orientation session before the trek

However, it does not include transportation, accommodation, meals, or tips. Most travelers book through safari companies that package these elements together for convenience.

The Chimpanzee Habituation Experience

For travelers who want a deeper and more extended encounter, Kibale Forest National Park offers the Chimpanzee Habituation Experience (CHEX) — a full-day experience where visitors join researchers and rangers as they follow a chimp community still in the habituation process.

• Cost:

  • Foreign Non-Residents: USD 300 per person

  • Foreign Residents: USD 250 per person

  • East African Citizens: UGX 200,000

The habituation experience allows up to four hours with the chimpanzees, compared to the standard one hour for normal trekking, making it perfect for photographers and wildlife enthusiasts.

Age Limit and Group Size

To protect both chimpanzees and visitors, trekking has a minimum age limit of 12 years. Each trek is limited to a small group of up to 6 tourists per session to minimize human impact and reduce stress on the animals. Morning and afternoon sessions are available, though early morning treks are usually more active and rewarding.

Best Time for Chimpanzee Trekking

Chimpanzee trekking in Uganda is possible throughout the year, but the dry seasons from June to September and December to February are the best. Trails are easier to navigate, and visibility is better. During the wet seasons (March to May and October to November), the forest becomes denser and muddier, but food is abundant — meaning chimps stay closer and are easier to find.

Why the Permits Matter

The chimpanzee trekking permit system is vital to conservation. The revenue generated funds habitat protection, ranger patrols, community development, and ongoing research. By purchasing a permit, travelers directly contribute to safeguarding Uganda’s chimpanzee populations and the ecosystems they depend on.

Tips for a Successful Trek

• Arrive early for the pre-trek briefing and safety instructions.

• Wear long sleeves, sturdy hiking boots, and insect repellent.

• Carry water, a rain jacket, and a light snack.

• Follow ranger guidance at all times and keep at least 8 meters from the chimps.

• Avoid trekking if you have a contagious illness — this protects the chimps from human diseases.

A Priceless Encounter

Standing among wild chimpanzees in Uganda’s emerald forests is a profound moment — one that blends adventure, emotion, and a sense of connection to something greater. Whether in Kibale’s dense canopy or Budongo’s mahogany groves, the experience of watching chimps communicate, play, and forage reminds you that you are part of a shared story of evolution and survival.

Chimpanzee trekking permits may come with a cost, but what they unlock — a chance to glimpse the living mirror of humanity in the wild — is absolutely priceless.