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Kibale National Park Chimpanzee Habituation Experience (CHEX)

3 Day Chimpanzee Safari Uganda

3 Day Chimpanzee Safari Uganda

This 3-Day Chimpanzee Safari Uganda to Kibale Forest National Park offers an immersive experience with Uganda’s primates. Kibale Forest is home to over 1,500 chimpanzees and 13 primate species, making it one of the best locations worldwide for chimpanzee tracking. Bird and wildlife lovers will also find plenty to enjoy, with over 375 bird species and diverse mammals.

Safari Highlights

  • Duration: 3 Days (start and end in Kampala or Entebbe)
  • Main Activities: Chimpanzee tracking, Bigodi Wetland nature walk
  • Wildlife: 13 primate species, 375 bird species, and other unique wetland species

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Kampala to Kibale National Park

  • Morning Departure: Start from Kampala or Entebbe at 7 am for the scenic drive to Kibale Forest National Park.
  • Stopover in Fort Portal: Enjoy lunch in Fort Portal, a picturesque town framed by the Rwenzori Mountains. Take in the beautiful tea plantations, forests, and local village views.
  • Arrival and Check-In: Arrive at your lodge near Kibale National Park, where you can relax, have dinner, and prepare for the next day’s activities.

Accommodation Options:

Meals Included: Lunch, Dinner

Day 2: Chimpanzee Tracking and Bigodi Wetland Walk

  • Morning Chimpanzee Tracking:
    • After an early breakfast, head to the park office at Kanyanchu at 8 am for a briefing on the chimpanzee tracking guidelines.
    • The chimpanzee trek lasts 3-5 hours, and you’ll follow a community of nearly 100 habituated chimpanzees. You’ll see them swinging through trees, calling to each other, and displaying their unique social behaviors. Once you locate them, you’ll have one hour to observe and take photos.
  • Lunch: Return to the lodge for lunch and a short rest.
  • Afternoon Bigodi Wetlands Walk:
    • Later, enjoy a guided nature walk in Bigodi Wetlands, known for its biodiversity and beautiful scenery. It’s a birdwatcher’s paradise, home to 138 bird species and eight primate species including black-and-white colobus, red-tailed, and blue monkeys.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3: Return to Kampala/Entebbe

  • Relaxed Breakfast: After breakfast at the lodge, check out and begin the drive back to Kampala or Entebbe.
  • Lunch: Enjoy a packed lunch along the way.
  • Arrival: Reach Kampala or Entebbe by late afternoon and drop off at your hotel or the airport.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Optional Add-On

  • Chimpanzee Habituation Experience: For a full-day adventure with chimpanzees, opt for the chimpanzee habituation experience. This activity begins early at 6:30 am and lets you observe the chimps from morning to evening as they wake, feed, and socialize.

Costs and Permits

  • Chimpanzee Tracking Permit:
    • $200 for international travelers
    • $150 for foreign residents
    • UGX 150,000 for East Africans
  • Chimpanzee Habituation Permit:
    • $250 for international travelers
    • $200 for foreign residents
    • UGX 200,000 for East Africans

Inclusions and Exclusions

Inclusions:

  • Transportation in a comfortable 4×4 safari vehicle
  • Accommodation and meals as per the itinerary
  • Chimpanzee tracking permit
  • Guided Bigodi Wetlands walk
  • Bottled water during the safari
  • Services of an English-speaking guide

Exclusions:

  • International flights and visa fees
  • Optional activities (e.g., chimpanzee habituation)
  • Beverages, souvenirs, and tips
  • Personal expenses (e.g., laundry, phone calls)

Safari Overview

This 3-day chimpanzee safari offers a thrilling, up-close encounter with chimpanzees, vibrant wetland life, and the lush landscapes of Kibale Forest National Park. It’s a perfect short tour for primate lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.