Trekking Chimpanzees in Rwanda vs Uganda

Chimpanzee trekking is one of East Africa’s most rewarding primate experiences — a thrilling pursuit that immerses you in the secret lives of man’s closest relatives. While Uganda and Rwanda are both renowned for their gorilla trekking adventures, they also offer some of the best chimpanzee encounters on the continent. Yet, these experiences differ significantly in terms of accessibility, cost, forest density, group sizes, and the overall adventure atmosphere. Below is a detailed comparison of trekking chimpanzees in Rwanda versus Uganda, helping you decide where your next primate adventure belongs.

Chimpanzee Trekking in Rwanda

Rwanda’s primary destination for chimpanzee trekking is Nyungwe Forest National Park, a vast, mist-cloaked montane rainforest in the country’s southwest. This ancient forest is one of Africa’s oldest, draped over dramatic ridges and valleys that form part of the Albertine Rift.

A typical chimpanzee trek in Nyungwe begins early in the morning from either Uwinka, Kitabi, or Gisakura. The forest echoes with birdcalls and the rustling of colobus monkeys as trekkers follow trails deep into the green maze. The chimpanzees of Nyungwe are semi-habituated, which makes sightings thrillingly unpredictable — they move fast through the high canopy, and trekkers often hear their loud pant-hooting before catching sight of them swinging through the treetops.

The experience here is one of raw wilderness and rainforest immersion. The park also shelters more than 13 primate species, including L’Hoest’s monkeys and grey-cheeked mangabeys, making it a haven for primate enthusiasts.

Rwanda’s Gishwati–Mukura National Park also offers newer, more intimate chimpanzee treks for travelers seeking fewer crowds and a quieter forest experience.

What Makes Rwanda Special

• The trails are well maintained, and the surrounding infrastructure — especially near Gisakura — is polished and accessible.

• Trekking permits are limited, ensuring a personalized experience.

• The scenery, from lush montane forest to cascading waterfalls, adds a dramatic backdrop.

• Excellent connections to Volcanoes National Park allow easy combination with gorilla trekking in a single itinerary.

However, Rwanda’s chimpanzee permits cost around USD 90–100 per person, and the country’s smaller chimp population (about 400 individuals in Nyungwe) means sightings are not always guaranteed.

Chimpanzee Trekking in Uganda

Uganda, often dubbed the “Primate Capital of the World,” boasts the most reliable chimpanzee trekking opportunities in East Africa. The country is home to over 5,000 chimpanzees, spread across several forests, with Kibale Forest National Park offering the most famous and rewarding experience.

In Kibale, trekkers are guided by expert rangers who know the daily routes of the chimp communities. The forest floor is alive with the sounds of red colobus, blue monkeys, and the rhythmic drumming of chimpanzees communicating through tree roots. Sightings are far more predictable here — the chimpanzees are well habituated, often allowing trekkers to observe them grooming, feeding, or nesting just meters away.

Other notable chimpanzee destinations in Uganda include:

• Budongo Forest (part of Murchison Falls National Park) — ideal for combining chimp trekking with big game safaris.

• Kyambura Gorge in Queen Elizabeth National Park — a dramatic forested canyon often called the Valley of Apes.

• Kalinzu Forest Reserve — a quieter and more budget-friendly alternative near Queen Elizabeth.

What Makes Uganda Stand Out

• High success rate of sightings (often 95% or more in Kibale).

• Multiple tracking sites, catering to both budget and luxury travelers.

• All-day Habituation Experiences available in Kibale and Budongo, allowing visitors to spend up to six hours with chimps instead of the standard one hour.

• Affordable permit prices — USD 250 for Kibale (trekking) and USD 300 for the habituation experience.

Uganda’s terrain is generally more forgiving than Nyungwe’s steep ridges, making the trek accessible even to those with moderate fitness levels.

Comparing the Two

Choosing Between Rwanda and Uganda

If you crave a luxurious, compact itinerary, where you can track both gorillas and chimpanzees in just a few days, Rwanda is unbeatable. The scenic drives, the quality of lodges, and the country’s clean, organized infrastructure make it perfect for travelers who value comfort and shorter transfers.

But if your goal is immersion and variety, Uganda is the clear winner. It offers more chimpanzees, a wider range of habitats, and richer wildlife experiences beyond primates — from the lions of Queen Elizabeth to the waterfalls of Murchison. You can trek chimps one day and gorillas the next, all within the same country.

Ultimately, the best choice depends on your travel rhythm: Rwanda for luxury and ease, Uganda for depth and diversity.