Uganda, the Ultimate Primate Safari Destination
Besides the gorillas, there is also man’s closest relative which is the chimpanzee. They are very charming apes and there are lots of them in places like the Kibale Forest National Park, the Budongo Forest and also in Kyambura gorge in Queen Elizabeth park.
While there are the wild ones, those that the tourists go trekking are the habituated ones thus a perfect opportunity to spend some time with this endangered species. Other than chimpanzee trekking, you can also do the chimpanzee habituation process and in this case you have longer hours in the jungle participating in the habituation exercise which is more fun though more costly.
Besides the mentioned parks, Chimpanzees in Uganda are also found in Ngamba chimpanzee sanctuary located on the Ngamba island in Lake Victoria, which was set up to be the home for those orphaned chimpanzees as well as those confiscated from the illegal hunters. It’s the only chimpanzee sanctuary in Uganda and when you visit it, there you will have a very close contact with the chimpanzees especially during the feeding time as you may be given the opportunity to feed them too.
Other primates include monkeys, which are remarkably well represented in Uganda. You can find a huge population of them in the Kibale forest, about 5 or 6 species that are likely to be spotted over the course of just one afternoon walk in the forest. Elsewhere in Mgahinga, there are troops of habituated golden monkeys and in Murchison falls you find the few East African strong holds for the plains-dwelling patas monkeys and all these make a primates watching safari worthwhile.
Primates watching is not only about primate safaris but it is also the perfect opportunity for a wonderful nature walk, through the bushes, hiking, push through the creeping plants, the sound of the birds is music to the ears, learn about the different plants and so many others that you will find in the jungle.
Primates watching is done all year round. You can plan a primate watching safari in Uganda using one of the local tour operators listed on this website.