Uganda Safari — Gorillas & Chimps

Uganda is East Africa's primate capital, offering incredible opportunities to trek both mountain gorillas and chimpanzees. With lower permit costs than Rwanda and more adventurous trekking, Uganda provides exceptional value for primate enthusiasts seeking authentic wilderness experiences.

Read our Rwanda vs Uganda comparisonand chimpanzee trekking guide.

Bwindi Impenetrable Forest: Home to roughly half the world's mountain gorillas. Bwindi's steep, jungle terrain makes trekking challenging but rewarding. Several habituated groups offer trekking opportunities.

Permit Cost: $700 per person (significantly less than Rwanda's $1,500). Permits must be booked well in advance.

Trekking Experience: 3-8 hours through dense forest. The terrain is steep and can be muddy. When you find the gorillas, you spend one hour observing them.

Kibale Forest: Uganda's premier chimpanzee trekking destination with over 1,500 chimps. The forest's habituated communities offer excellent viewing opportunities. Treks typically last 2-4 hours.

Budongo Forest: Another excellent chimp trekking location with large populations. Less crowded than Kibale but equally rewarding.

Permit Cost: $150-200 per person for chimp trekking, significantly less than gorilla permits.

Queen Elizabeth National Park: Famous for tree-climbing lions, diverse wildlife, and boat safaris on the Kazinga Channel. Excellent for combining with primate trekking.

Murchison Falls: Uganda's largest park with dramatic waterfalls, boat safaris, and diverse wildlife including elephants, giraffes, and numerous bird species.

Kidepo Valley: Remote and spectacular park with excellent wildlife and fewer visitors. Ideal for adventurous travelers.

June-September & December-February: Dry seasons with better trekking conditions. These are peak seasons, so book permits and accommodation well in advance.

March-May & October-November: Wet seasons with lush landscapes and fewer visitors. Trekking is more challenging but permits are easier to secure.

Ready to plan your Uganda primate safari? Contact usto create a customized itinerary combining gorillas, chimpanzees, and other wildlife.

Read our Rwanda vs Uganda comparison,Rwanda cost guide, or browse our Uganda safari packages.

Browse our journal for more resources, or check travel resources.