CHIMPANZEE TRACKING

Into the forest.
Closer to the wild.

Explore Kibale’s rainforest with authorised guides, then return to the comfort of Ngogo. We can help arrange permits, transport and a packed lunch.

Call to enquireView rooms & rates
KANYANCHU & KIBALE

A forest full of life.

Chimpanzee tracking takes you through dense tropical rainforest in search of our remarkable primate relatives. Walks can take several hours and conditions vary with the weather and the animals’ movements.

Kibale is also home to colobus, red-tailed and blue monkeys, mangabeys and baboons. Birdwatchers can look for turacos, hornbills, kingfishers, flycatchers and many other forest species.

Ngogo Safari Lodge is approximately 3 km south of Kanyanchu, where visitor tracking is organised. The lodge team can help you plan the day and organise a lunch box.

A guide briefing visitors in the forest, from the supplied travel photographs
A GUIDED ENCOUNTER

Chimpanzee tracking

Follow authorised guides along forest trails to look for chimpanzees and other wildlife. Allow time for the briefing, forest walk and return journey. Sightings and walking times cannot be guaranteed.

Call to enquire
MORE TIME IN THE FOREST

Habituation experience

Ask about a longer chimpanzee habituation experience, which may allow a fuller day with habituated chimpanzees. This is subject to the park’s current programme, permits and availability.

Call to enquire

Permits are limited. Contact us before finalising travel dates so we can check current availability, fees, age restrictions and park rules. Ngogo Research Station and Kanyawara are research sites; a lodge booking does not include access to them.

PACK FOR THE FOREST

Leave ready for adventure.

  • Sturdy shoes with good grip for muddy slopes and wet ground.
  • Rain gear and long-sleeved clothing.
  • Drinking water and a packed lunch for longer outings.
  • Binoculars and a camera protected from rain.
  • Follow the guide’s instructions and avoid flash photography.
Can the lodge book permits?

Our team can help coordinate a booking and confirm the current process. Permit availability must be checked in advance.

Can we have a packed lunch?

A lunch box can be arranged for a tracking day. Tell us your plans and dietary needs when you enquire.

Are wildlife sightings guaranteed?

No. These are wild animals, and conditions, movement and weather affect every outing.

What else can we explore nearby?

Bigodi and Magombe wetlands, village walks, birdwatching and the Ndali–Kasenda crater area can complement a stay. See our Tours & Transport page.

THE NGOGO RESEARCH STORY

A window into
chimpanzee life.

Research at Ngogo began in 1972 with ecologist Thomas Struhsaker. The forest has provided an important setting for long-term studies of ecology and primate behaviour.

The Ngogo chimpanzees became familiar to a wider audience through Chimp Empire. The research site remains distinct from the visitor tracking programme at Kanyanchu. Our team can explain the different experiences available through the park.

Chimpanzees together in forest vegetation
LET’S MAKE A PLAN

Make room for a forest day.

Tell us when you’re coming and whether you prefer a tracking visit or a longer habituation experience.

Call to enquire