Uganda, known as the Pearl of Africa, is one of the world’s most biodiverse destinations — and a true haven for primate enthusiasts. With its lush rainforests, expansive savannahs, and misty mountains, the country is home to an astonishing variety of primate species, making it a top destination for travelers looking to experience close encounters with our closest animal relatives.
From the legendary mountain gorillas in the highlands to playful monkeys and rare forest dwellers, Uganda boasts over 20 species of primates, more than any other country in East Africa. Here’s a detailed look at the incredible primate species you can find in Uganda, and where you can see them.
Mountain Gorillas: The Crown Jewel
Perhaps the most famous of all Uganda’s primates, the mountain gorilla is an endangered species found in the forests of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Nearly half of the world’s population of mountain gorillas live here, making Uganda the best place to witness these gentle giants up close through gorilla trekking.
Their remarkable intelligence, complex social structure, and human-like behavior make every encounter an unforgettable experience.
Chimpanzees: Our Closest Cousins
Uganda is also renowned for its thriving populations of chimpanzees, which are found in several forests across the country. Kibale Forest National Park is the premier destination for chimpanzee trekking, offering one of the highest success rates in East Africa.
Chimps are also seen in Budongo Forest (part of Murchison Falls National Park), Kyambura Gorge (in Queen Elizabeth National Park), and Kalinzu Forest. Their lively social interactions, deafening calls, and playful antics make trekking to see them an exhilarating adventure.
Golden Monkeys: A Rare Treat
In the bamboo forests of Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, you can encounter the golden monkey, a beautiful and endangered primate with a striking golden-orange coat. These monkeys live in groups of up to 100 individuals and are only found in the Virunga volcanic mountains shared by Uganda, Rwanda, and Congo.
A golden monkey trekking experience is often combined with a visit to the gorillas, adding another rare primate to your checklist.
Olive Baboons: The Forest Sentinels
The olive baboon is one of Uganda’s most widespread primates, easily spotted in savannah and woodland areas, often sitting confidently by the roadside in groups. They’re highly social, intelligent, and sometimes mischievous, making them a common sight in Queen Elizabeth National Park, Murchison Falls, and Lake Mburo National Park.
Red Colobus Monkeys: Rare and Endangered
The elusive red colobus monkey is a rare and endangered species, best seen in the forests of Kibale and Semuliki National Parks. These monkeys are highly sensitive to habitat disturbance, so spotting them is a special reward for keen-eyed visitors.
L’Hoest’s Monkeys: The Shy Forest Dwellers
L’Hoest’s monkey, with its distinctive white ruff and shy demeanor, is another of Uganda’s remarkable primates. They inhabit high-altitude forests and are often seen in Bwindi, Mgahinga, and Kibale.
Vervet Monkeys: The Playful Commoners
The vervet monkey is one of Uganda’s most common and adaptable primates, easily identified by its black face and white fringe of hair. They are widespread throughout the country’s parks and forests, often seen playing in open areas and campsites.
Other Notable Primates
Uganda is also home to several other fascinating primate species, including the blue monkey, patas monkey, black-and-white colobus monkey, red-tailed monkey, Demidoff’s galago (bushbaby), and even the strange potto, a nocturnal primate found in Kibale and Budongo.
Why Uganda Is a Primate Paradise
Uganda’s unique mix of habitats — from montane rainforests to dry savannah — supports this incredible diversity of primates. Combined with excellent conservation programs and well-managed parks, it’s no wonder the country is regarded as Africa’s premier destination for primate lovers.
Whether you’re trekking through misty mountains to see gorillas, following the calls of chimps in the forest, or watching baboons in the savannah, Uganda offers an unparalleled primate experience that will leave you in awe of the natural world.
