Uganda is one of the African country with the highest number of chimpanzees, here there are over 5000 chimps registered. Chimpanzee tracking is done from different spots/areas which includes Kibale Forest National Park, Kyambura Gorge in Queen Elizabeth National Park, Budongo forest Reserve, Kalinzu forest and Semuliki National Park.
Chimpanzee tracking is an awesome experience. This will notably showcase their traits by climbing up and down trees, feed and fight which will make you generally entertained.
Basing on the current estimates for the total wild population of chimpanzees range from 150,000 to 250,000. With only Uganda hosting about 5,000 individuals. Almost 1,500 chimps are found in Kibale National Park, the most popular place for chimp tracking in the country.
Chimpanzee tracking is not only fascinating, but a lot of fun. It’s often a more active experience than gorilla trekking, which involves adopting a very submissive pose while in the presence of these forest giants. Chimps tend to move around more, and you can feel a thrilling adventure following them through the forest.
Chimp tracking in Uganda is one of the most remarkable wildlife experiences available on the continent.
Kibale Forest is the best place for chimp trekking, as the forest has high population densities and sightings are most common here.
What is chimpanzee trekking?
Chimpanzee trekking, is a popular wildlife activities in Uganda. Since this allows you to step into the world of chimpanzees in the wild. Uganda Wildlife Authority official / Rangers guide will lead you in to small group (maximum of 8) into the forest in search the chimps.
The treks can take about 3-4 hours and include a maximum of one hour with in their front yard. On an encounter with the chimps you are expected to see them at a distance of about 8-10 meters. The will enable you getting up close with the chimpanzees as you observe their intelligence and social structures.
What is chimpanzee habituation?
Chimpanzee habituation is a fully immersive experience. You can join the researchers of the habituation team for a half or full day excursion deep into the forest. These chimps are less used to human presence and so the experience is more unpredictable.
Whilst it can be challenging to follow the lead of these agile primates, the experience is thoroughly rewarding.
The main difference between the standard chimp treks and the habituation experience is how long you spend with the chimps. The habituation experience allows you to spend much longer in the company of the chimps.