Chimpanzee trekking in Kyambura Gorge

Whether you are a passionate nature lover or simply looking for a unique wildlife experience, chimpanzee trekking in Kyambura Gorge which is commonly known as the Valley of Apes should be on your bucket list. Kyambura Gorge is located in Queen Elizabeth National Park. This green rainforest is home to a small but interesting population of chimpanzees giving visitors a rare opportunity to see these animals in their natural home.

Kyambura gorge holds part of the 5000 chimpanzees in Uganda that stay on the floor of the rift valley.

Kyambura Gorge is about 100 meters deep with beautiful views of the wilderness, surrounded by savannah and diverse flora and fauna. The gorge is as a result of erosion of River Kyambura flowing towards Kazinga channel in Queen Elizabeth National Park.

The gorge serves as an important sanctuary for resident chimpanzees and other wildlife species like baboons and colobus monkeys. When you go on game drives in Queen Elizabeth National Park, you may see some waterbucks, bushbucks, elephants, topis, warthogs, leopards, lions, cape buffaloes and many others.

Chimpanzee trekking is a guided experience that lasts between 2 to 4 hours escorted by expert trackers and guides. You need a chimpanzee trekking permit to venture into the forest and search for chimpanzees as you cross rough paths and thick vegetation. However, the fulfillment of spotting chimpanzees swinging through the trees or hearing their individual calls makes it all worth.

Chimpanzees in Kyambura Gorge have been familiarized to human presence which means that they are used to visitors and less likely to run away when met by humans. This gives trekkers an opportunity to observe chimpanzee behavior closer as they groom each other, hunt for food or playfully interact.

Besides its natural beauty and wildlife, Chimpanzee trekking in Kyambura Gorge gives visitors a chance to support conservation efforts because chimpanzees still face threats like habitat loss. By visiting, you are contributing to preserving chimpanzee ecosystem for future generations.

How long is chimpanzee trekking in Kyambura gorge?

Chimpanzee trekking in Kyambura Gorge takes between 2 to 3 hours depending on the location of the chimpanzee families, how easily they can be tracked, weather conditions during the day and the nearness to their food. The adventure begins with a briefing from experienced guides who provide information about the trek and the chimpanzees. Once you set off, you will cross through the dense forest and streams.

When you finally meet a chimpanzee group, you will be given one hour to watch them combing each other’s hair, feeding and training. You need some fitness level to participate in Chimpanzee trekking.

 For more information about chimpanzee trekking duration, please contact Giant Holiday Safaris.

How to book chimpanzee trekking permits for Kyambura gorge

First choose the date you wish to do chimpanzee trekking and whether you want the morning or afternoon session. contact the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) directly or work with Giant Holiday Safaris, a trusted tour operator. we simplify your chimpanzee trekking permit booking process by handling all arrangements on your behalf. You have to provide to us personal details like your name, nationality, number of chimpanzee trekking permits you want to book, date of birth and others. After confirming permit availability, our tour operator will get back to you so that you pay deposit and secure your permit.

Permits for Kyambura Gorge often sell out quickly because only 6 permits are open per troop per session so it is advisable to book at least 3 to 6 months in advance especially during peak seasons of June to September and December to February.

How much is a chimpanzee trekking permit for Kyambura gorge

The cost of a chimpanzee trekking permit for Kyambura Gorge in Uganda is approximately 100 USD per person for foreign non-residents, 50,000 UGX for East African citizens and 80 USD for foreign residents which makes it affordable for locals and visitors to enjoy this unique journey. The chimpanzee trekking permit fee covers government tax, community support, security during the trek, ranger guide fee and chimpanzee conservation fee. It does not cater for meals, park entrance fees, tips, accommodation, transport and personal expenses.

Is chimpanzee trekking in Kyambura gorge a tiring activity?

Chimpanzee trekking in Kyambura Gorge is an exciting activity but it can be a bit tiring depending on your level of fitness and the conditions of the trek. The gorge is a green forested area with steep slopes and rough terrain which requires some energy to cross through. The trek requires walking through the dense vegetation, climbing hill and crossing streams while searching for chimpanzees. The fulfilment of seeing chimpanzees in their natural home, watching their behavior and hearing their calls makes every step enjoyable.

To make the experience more enjoyable, it is important to wear comfortable hiking shoes, carry water and pace yourself during the trek. Guides are always there to assist you and make sure that you are safe. Though it may leave you a little tired, the memories and connection with nature you will gain from chimpanzee trekking in Kyambura Gorge are unforgettable.

Best time to do chimpanzee trekking in Kyambura gorge

Kyambura Gorge is possible throughout the year and each season has its own benefits but the best time for chimpanzee trekking in Kyambura Gorge is during the dry season which is from December to February and June to September. During these months, the roads are less muddy and easy to cross which makes your trekking experience more enjoyable and less challenging. The dry seasons not only provide better trekking conditions but also increase your chances of seeing chimpanzees because they are more active and visible during this weather.

The rainy season that is from March to May and October to November comes with beautiful greenery and vibrant landscapes though the trails can be slippery. This season has fewer tourists which makes chimpanzee trekking experience very private and peaceful. The season also comes with reduced rates on transport, vehicle hiring and accommodation.

How dangerous are chimpanzees in Kyambura gorge?

Chimpanzees in Kyambura Gorge can be unpredictable and potentially dangerous if they feel threatened or provoked. They are very strong in size and their sharp teeth cause serious injuries in case of any attack. However, incidents involving chimpanzees attacking humans are rare because chimpanzee communities open for public visits in Kyambura Gorge first go through chimpanzee habituation where they are used to the presence of tourists and researchers.

To ensure a safe and enjoyable chimpanzee trekking experience, visitors should always follow the guidance of park rangers or guides. Visitors should also follow instructions in the park like maintaining a safe distance from chimpanzees, avoiding direct eye contact with chimpanzees and not feeding or interacting with the chimpanzees. These are important steps put in place by Uganda Wildlife Authority to prevent any misunderstandings or stress on the animals.

How can I be sure to see chimpanzees in Kyambura gorge

First, book a guided chimpanzee trekking tour through Giant Holiday Safaris, a reputable tour operator so that your tour is smooth. The expert guides are skilled at tracking chimpanzees with a 97 % success rate and will lead you to areas where they are most likely to be found. It is also important to note that morning treks are generally more successful because chimpanzees are active early in the day looking for food and socializing.

Remember that patience is key since chimpanzees are wild animals and more mobile compared to gorillas.

Activities to combine with chimpanzee trekking in Kyambura gorge

Game drives in Queen Elizabeth National Park

Queen Elizabeth National Park gives visitors a chance to see African elephants, Lions and Leopards. The park also has herbivores such as buffaloes, Uganda kobs, waterbucks, hyenas and warthogs. Hippos and crocodiles are commonly found in the Kazinga Channel which is a hotspot for boat safaris. Moreso, bird lovers benefit from game drives as they watch more than 600 bird species including the striking African fish eagle and the rare shoebill stork.

Chimpanzee trekking in Kibale Forest National Park

Kibale Forest National Park has a large population of chimpanzees in Uganda where you can participate in chimpanzee habituation or chimpanzee trekking. As you venture into the green rainforest guided by experienced trackers, you will enjoy the fresh air, sounds of chirping birds and distant calls of the chimpanzees. watching these chimpanzees swinging through trees or looking for food on the forest floor is a memorable experience.

Launch trip on Kazinga channel

 Kazinga Channel is a natural waterway that connects Lake Edward and Lake George. A 3-hour return boat cruise along the channel provides the perfect opportunity to witness nature at its finest. As you sail through the calm waters, you will see hippos and crocodiles relaxing on the banks and many bird species. The channel also gives photographers a chance to take close views of elephants, buffaloes and antelopes quenching their thirst at the edge of water. The gentle breeze, peaceful surroundings and vibrant ecosystem make this best for families, couples or solo travelers.

 Crater lakes visit

Visiting wet and dry craters in Queen Elizabeth National Park is an interesting adventure which gives visitors a chance to see lakes like blue copper late, lake Katwe which is popular for salt mining and Lake Nyamunuka with a pungent smell throughout the year.

Forest walk in Maramagambo Forest

Maramagambo Forest in Queen Elizabeth National Park has olive baboons, black and white colobus, red tailed monkeys and other animals. The forest is deep with sunny plains around Kazinga channel. Maramagambo Forest offers guided walks which allows visitors to explore its wonders while learning about its unique ecosystem. The paths are manageable for most fitness levels and provide an opportunity to connect with nature.

Gorilla trips in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park has Gorilla trekking and gorilla habituation experiences. Gorilla trekking begins with a guided hike through the lush green forest in search for a habituated gorilla family to spend one hour with them. The surroundings is beautiful with towering trees, vibrant birdlife and the calm sounds of nature accompanying you on your journey. Gorilla habituation on the other hand involves trekkers following a semi-habituated gorilla family in the company of researchers and trackers to spend four hours getting them used to human presence.

Guidelines for chimpanzee trekking

• Always trek with a trained guide who understands the ground and the behavior of chimpanzees to ensure your safety and help you spot the chimpanzees.
• Wear comfortable hiking boots and long-sleeved clothing to protect yourself from insects and thorny vegetation.
• Stay at least 7 to10 meters away from the chimpanzees to minimizes the risk of disturbing them or transmitting diseases.
• Avoid loud noises or sudden movements. This helps to keep the chimpanzees relaxed and ensures a peaceful chimpanzee meeting.
• Avoid trekking if you are not feeling well to protect the chimpanzees from potential illnesses transmission.
• Respect the forest by not littering or taking anything from the chimpanzee habitat.
• Avoid direct eye contact with chimpanzees because they may interpret direct eye contact as a threat signal instead observe them calmly.
• Feeding or touching chimpanzees is strictly prohibited. Human food can harm their health so let them hunt naturally as wild animals.
• Spitting on vegetation is prohibited because it is food for chimpanzees and other animals.
• Flash photography is prohibited because it may cause them to run into hiding.
• Do not surround chimpanzees as they may feel ambushed.
• Do not provoke chimpanzees because they may charge at you.
• Only one hour is allowed for chimpanzee trekking so that chimpanzees have their free time to feed.