The Best Time for Chimpanzee Trekking in Uganda and Rwanda
Introduction
Chimpanzee trekking in Uganda and Rwanda offers one of the most thrilling primate encounters in Africa. Unlike gorillas—who are more predictable and slow-moving—chimpanzees are fast, vocal, and highly active, making each trek dynamic and full of excitement. Because chimps live in tropical forests with seasonal fruiting cycles, the time of year you choose can significantly influence the trekking experience, including sighting success, trail difficulty, and how close the chimps remain. This comprehensive guide explains the best seasons, what to expect throughout the year, differences between Uganda and Rwanda, and expert tips for planning the perfect chimpanzee adventure.
Understanding the Climate in Uganda and Rwanda
Both countries experience a tropical highland climate with two rainy seasons and two dry seasons. Rain falls throughout the year, but some months provide better trail conditions and more predictable chimpanzee movements. Because chimps follow food availability, their behaviour—especially ranging patterns—varies with rainfall, fruit seasons, and forest density.
Best Time for Chimpanzee Trekking: Dry Seasons (Recommended)
June to September – Peak Trekking Season
This is the best and most reliable time for chimpanzee trekking in both Uganda and Rwanda.
Trails are drier, visibility is good, and chimps tend to remain within manageable ranges. In Uganda’s Kibale Forest, the chimpanzee sighting rate during this period is often over 95%, making it one of the world’s most successful primate tracking destinations.
Rwanda’s Nyungwe Forest also offers excellent trekking during these months, with stable weather and comfortable hiking conditions. The forest canopy is less dense, allowing better observation of chimpanzees as they move through the trees.
This period aligns with high tourism season, so early permit booking is essential.
December to February – Short Dry Season
This is the second most favourable period for chimp trekking.
The forest remains relatively dry, and chimps are easier to locate because fruit availability is consistent. Hiking conditions are comfortable, although this season tends to be slightly warmer. Both Uganda and Rwanda experience excellent sighting rates during these months.
Dry seasons are ideal for travelers seeking the easiest trekking conditions, better visibility, and predictable chimpanzee movements.
Trekking During the Rainy Seasons (Still Possible and Rewarding)
March to May – Long Rainy Season
This is the wettest period of the year.
Trails become muddy, slippery, and more physically demanding. However, chimpanzee sightings can still be excellent. In Uganda, chimps often stay closer to the ground during fruiting shifts, sometimes allowing longer observation times.
In Rwanda’s Nyungwe Forest, the chimps may range widely due to abundant food, making trekkers walk longer distances. The forest is at its greenest and most atmospheric, offering dramatic photographic opportunities for adventurous travellers.
This is the quietest season with fewer tourists and often lower accommodation rates.
October to November – Short Rainy Season
Rainfall increases again, though less intensely than in the long rains.
Trekking is manageable with the right gear, but trails can be slippery. Chimps may move quickly following seasonal fruit, and sightings may require longer tracking sessions. Despite this, the forest is lush, birdlife is abundant, and the overall trekking experience remains rewarding.
Month-by-Month Overview
January – Dry, excellent trekking, high sighting rates
February – Good conditions, moderate to warm weather
March – Wet, challenging trails, adventurous trekking
April – Very wet, long hikes possible, lush scenery
May – Wet but improving, fewer visitors
June – Dry, peak season begins
July – Excellent conditions, reliable sightings
August – Ideal trekking, very popular
September – Good weather with slight drizzle at times
October – Short rains begin, green forests
November – Wet but manageable trekking
December – Dry, holiday season, great conditions
Differences Between Uganda and Rwanda for Chimp Trekking
Uganda – Best Overall for Sighting Rates
Uganda offers multiple chimp trekking destinations:
• Kibale Forest National Park (top sighting success)
• Budongo Forest (Murchison Falls)
• Kyambura Gorge (Queen Elizabeth National Park)
Kibale Forest is known as the “Primate Capital of the World,” with over 1,500 chimps. Sighting rates are highest here, especially in the dry seasons. Uganda also offers the Chimpanzee Habituation Experience, allowing up to four hours with chimps—ideal for photographers and primate enthusiasts.
Rwanda – Scenic, Mountainous, and Wild
Rwanda’s chimp trekking happens primarily in Nyungwe Forest National Park, one of Africa’s oldest rainforests. The terrain is steeper, and chimps move quickly through high-canopy trees, making the experience more dynamic and sometimes more challenging.
Trekking here is visually stunning, with dramatic landscapes and a pristine montane rainforest environment.
Uganda generally offers closer sightings; Rwanda offers a more adventurous forest atmosphere.
How Season Affects Chimpanzee Behaviour
During dry seasons:
• Chimps forage more predictably
• They often remain in moderately sized groups
• Visibility improves as vegetation thins slightly
During rainy seasons:
• Chimps may move more frequently following fruit cycles
• They may stay longer in tree canopies
• Trails require more trekking effort
Regardless of season, chimps are tracked daily by rangers, ensuring good success rates.
Permit Availability and Booking
Chimpanzee permits are easier to secure than gorilla permits but still require advance booking during peak months.
Uganda permit prices:
• Kibale Chimp Trekking: $250
• Habituation Experience: $300
• Budongo Trek: $120
• Kyambura Gorge: $100
Rwanda permit prices:
• Nyungwe Chimp Trekking: $150–$250
Dry season dates book fastest, so securing permits 3–6 months ahead is recommended.
Trekking Difficulty
Dry seasons provide easier footing and shorter walks.
Rainy seasons increase difficulty due to mud, slippery slopes, and faster-ranging chimps.
Regardless of season:
• Porters are highly recommended
• Proper footwear is essential
• Expect quick movement—chimps rarely stay still
Photography Considerations
Dry seasons offer soft lighting and less foliage, aiding visibility.
Rainy seasons create dramatic rainforest moods but require waterproof protection for gear.
Final Thoughts
The best time for chimpanzee trekking in Uganda and Rwanda is during the dry seasons of June to September and December to February, when trails are easiest and sightings are most predictable. However, chimp trekking is available year-round, and rainy months offer unique advantages such as lush forest scenery and quieter trekking experiences.
Whether you choose Uganda’s high-sighting forests or Rwanda’s dramatic montane landscapes, chimpanzee trekking delivers an unforgettable connection with one of our closest relatives in the wild.
