Chimpanzee Tracking & Gorilla Trekking Safari Guide

Combining chimpanzee tracking with gorilla trekking is a special way to see two of our closest relatives in the wild. This type of trip allows visitors to understand how these primates live and behave in their natural forest homes.

Gorilla Trekking Experience

Gorilla trekking involves searching for mountain gorillas in thick rain forest. There are about 1,063 mountain gorillas left in the wild. They can be tracked in the Virunga Massif and in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.

Chimpanzee Tracking Experience

Chimpanzee tracking focuses on finding chimpanzees in their natural habitat. Chimpanzees are very intelligent and live in large social groups. They are active and easy to hear because of their loud calls.

Best Country for This Safari

Uganda is the best country for combining these two activities. Gorilla trekking is done in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, while chimpanzee tracking is done in Kibale National Park. Planning this trip is easier when working with a trusted tour operator, who can handle permits, transport, and timing.

Suggested Travel Plan

Most trips start in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, which is home to almost half of the remaining mountain gorillas in the world. The park has four trekking sectors and more than 20 habituated gorilla families.

After gorilla trekking, travelers continue to Kibale National Park, often called the primate capital of Africa. The park has over 1,500 chimpanzees, giving a very high chance of seeing them during a trek. Travelers with more time can also add chimpanzee tracking in Budongo Forest within Murchison Falls National Park or in Kyambura Gorge inside Queen Elizabeth National Park.

Trekking Process

Gorilla trekking starts early in the morning with a briefing at the park headquarters. The trek can last from 30 minutes to six hours, depending on where the gorillas are found. Once located, visitors spend one hour with them. This activity is physically demanding because it involves walking on steep forest paths.

Chimpanzee tracking follows a similar process, but the terrain is usually easier and requires less effort. Chimpanzees move fast, make loud sounds, and interact a lot, which makes the experience lively and engaging.

Best Time to Travel

The best time to combine gorilla trekking and chimpanzee tracking is during the dry seasons, from June to August and from December to February. During these months, forest paths are drier and easier to walk on.