Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary – A Haven for Rescued Chimps on Lake Victoria

Floating gracefully on the calm waters of Lake Victoria, just 23 kilometers from Entebbe, lies Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary — Uganda’s first and most renowned sanctuary dedicated to the care and conservation of orphaned chimpanzees. Established in 1998, Ngamba Island is a symbol of hope, compassion, and conservation success, offering visitors a rare chance to observe these intelligent primates up close in a safe, semi-wild environment.

Discovering Ngamba Island

Ngamba Island covers about 100 acres, with more than 95 acres of dense tropical rainforest that serves as a natural home for over 50 rescued chimpanzees. The sanctuary is managed by the Chimpanzee Sanctuary and Wildlife Conservation Trust (CSWCT) — a collaborative effort by conservation organizations including the Jane Goodall Institute, Uganda Wildlife Authority, and Uganda Wildlife Education Centre.

Each chimpanzee at Ngamba has a unique rescue story — most were orphaned by poaching, illegal trade, or habitat loss. The sanctuary offers them lifelong care, medical attention, and an environment close to what they would experience in the wild.

The Ngamba Island Experience

Visiting Ngamba Island is one of Uganda’s most rewarding wildlife encounters. The journey begins with a boat ride across Lake Victoria, lasting about 45 to 60 minutes from Entebbe. As you approach the island, the lush green canopy emerges against the backdrop of blue waters, setting the stage for an unforgettable day.

Upon arrival, visitors are greeted by knowledgeable guides who share the sanctuary’s inspiring story before leading you to the chimpanzee feeding platform, where the adventure truly begins.

Chimpanzee Feeding Sessions

The highlight of every visit is watching the chimps during their feeding time. From a raised viewing platform, you can observe them emerging from the forest, displaying playful and intelligent behavior — grooming each other, calling loudly, or patiently waiting for their share of fruits and vegetables tossed by the caregivers.
These sessions are held twice daily:

Morning feeding: Around 11:00 AM
Afternoon feeding: Around 3:00 PM

Each chimp has a distinct personality — some are bold and playful, while others are shy or reserved. The experience gives visitors a fascinating insight into their emotions, intelligence, and complex social structure.

Boat Cruises and Scenic Views

The boat journey itself is scenic, with possible sightings of waterbirds, fishermen, and local fishing villages along the shores of Lake Victoria. The cool lake breeze and open waters create a relaxing prelude to your island visit.

Caregiver for a Day Experience

For travelers who want a deeper connection, Ngamba offers the “Caregiver for a Day” program, allowing participants to spend the day behind the scenes assisting caregivers in preparing food, feeding chimps, cleaning enclosures, and learning about chimp behavior. It’s an intimate and educational experience perfect for conservation enthusiasts.

Bird Watching and Nature Walks

Beyond chimpanzees, Ngamba Island is a sanctuary for over 120 bird species, monitor lizards, fruit bats, and otters. Guided nature walks take visitors through the forest trails, offering opportunities for birding and quiet reflection amid nature.

Conservation and Education

Ngamba Island is not just a tourist destination — it’s a vital conservation project that plays a key role in:

Rescuing and rehabilitating chimpanzees from illegal wildlife trade.
Educating communities and visitors about wildlife protection.
Conducting research on chimp behavior, health, and conservation.
Supporting outreach programs that help reduce human-wildlife conflict in Uganda.

The sanctuary follows strict welfare and ethical standards. Chimps are not bred, sold, or used for entertainment — instead, the focus remains on long-term care and awareness.

How to Get There

Ngamba Island is easily accessible from Entebbe, Uganda’s main entry point for most international visitors.

Boat departures: Daily from UWEC Jetty or Waterfront Beach Entebbe.
Travel time: Approximately 45 minutes by speedboat or 90 minutes by traditional motorized canoe.
Alternative: Helicopter transfers can also be arranged for a scenic aerial view of Lake Victoria.

Visitors must book in advance through a tour operator or directly with the Chimpanzee Sanctuary and Wildlife Conservation Trust.

Accommodation on the Island

For those wishing to stay longer, Ngamba offers comfortable eco-friendly lodging options:

Ngamba Island Tented Camp: Cozy safari tents with en-suite bathrooms overlooking the lake.
Campsite and cabins: For budget travelers or volunteers participating in longer programs.

Staying overnight allows you to experience the island’s tranquility — the sounds of the forest at night, the cool lake breeze, and the magical sunrise over the water.

Best Time to Visit

Ngamba Island is open year-round, but the dry seasons from June to September and December to February offer the most pleasant conditions for travel and photography. Boat rides are smoother, and the skies are clearer for scenic views of Lake Victoria.

What to Bring

Comfortable clothing and shoes for walking.
Hat, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
Rain jacket (weather on the lake can change quickly).
Camera or binoculars for wildlife viewing.

Why Visit Ngamba Island

A visit to Ngamba Island is more than a tourist activity — it’s an experience that connects the heart with conservation. Watching rescued chimps thrive in their natural environment inspires a deep appreciation for wildlife and the people working tirelessly to protect it. It’s one of Uganda’s most touching and educational eco-tourism experiences.

Conclusion

Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary is where compassion meets conservation — a living example of how humans and wildlife can coexist in harmony. Whether you’re coming for a short day trip or staying overnight, every moment on the island is filled with wonder, laughter, and learning. As the chimps play, communicate, and gaze back with knowing eyes, you’ll leave Ngamba with a renewed sense of respect for nature and the extraordinary intelligence we share with our closest relatives.