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Welcome to Kibale Forest National Park, Uganda’s lush green paradise and the primate capital of East Africa. This tropical rainforest in western Uganda is one of the most rewarding safari destinations for nature lovers, photographers, birders, and those eager for intimate wildlife encounters—especially with chimpanzees.
At Uganda Horizon Safaris, we invite you to step off the beaten path and into the vibrant world of Kibale Forest, where the sounds of howling primates echo through towering hardwood trees, and every trail leads to new discoveries. Whether you’re tracking wild chimpanzees, birdwatching in the treetops, or exploring community villages, Kibale offers an immersive nature experience unlike any other.
Kibale is not just a destination—it’s a journey deep into the heart of Uganda’s biodiversity. For travelers seeking connection with nature, conservation, and authentic adventure, this is a must-visit gem on any Uganda safari itinerary.
Spanning nearly 795 square kilometers, Kibale National Park is one of Africa’s last remaining expanses of tropical rainforest. It connects to Queen Elizabeth National Park via a wildlife corridor and forms part of a larger conservation area that protects countless species of flora and fauna.
Kibale is best known for its remarkable primate population, including over 1,500 chimpanzees, making it the best place in Uganda for chimpanzee trekking. In fact, it boasts 13 primate species, the highest diversity in East Africa. From curious chimpanzees and red colobus monkeys to L’Hoest’s monkeys and bush babies, this forest teems with life at every turn.
The highlight of any visit to Kibale is the opportunity to track wild chimpanzees through their natural habitat. Led by Uganda Wildlife Authority rangers and expert local trackers, you’ll follow vocalizations and forest clues until you find a habituated chimpanzee family, observing their fascinating social interactions from a respectful distance.
Unlike the brief moments we usually get with wildlife, chimpanzee trekking in Kibale allows for close, prolonged observation. You’ll watch them groom, forage, play, and swing through the canopy. The experience is both thrilling and profoundly moving.
While chimpanzees are the main attraction, Kibale Forest is a haven for many other species. During your forest walks and guided excursions, keep an eye out for:
13 species of primates, including:
Black-and-white colobus monkeys
Red-tailed monkeys
Blue monkeys
Grey-cheeked mangabeys
L’Hoest’s monkeys
Over 325 bird species, including:
African pitta
Great blue turaco
Black bee-eater
Yellow-spotted nicator
Green-breasted pitta
Over 250 species of butterflies
Forest elephants, bush pigs, duikers, and more elusive mammals
The forest is alive with birdsong, primate calls, and the rustle of leaves—a constant reminder of the thriving life around you.
With Uganda Horizon Safaris, every journey into Kibale is personalized, responsible, and unforgettable. Here are the key activities and experiences we offer in and around the park:
Join a small group trek into the forest to locate and observe a chimpanzee troop for one hour. Treks depart in the morning and afternoon and can vary in duration based on chimpanzee movements.
For those seeking a deeper experience, join researchers and trackers for a full day in the forest. Observe a semi-habituated group of chimpanzees as they go about their daily lives. This experience allows up to 4 hours of observation and is ideal for photographers and wildlife lovers.
Walk the forest trails with a knowledgeable guide who will introduce you to the medicinal plants, butterfly species, monkeys, and the hidden beauty of the forest’s ecosystem.
Located just outside the park, the Bigodi Wetland is a top community-based ecotourism project. It’s a paradise for birdwatchers and offers excellent sightings of monkeys and rare birds like the great blue turaco. A guided walk here supports local conservation and livelihoods.
Visit nearby villages to learn about the customs, crafts, and daily life of the Batooro and Bakiga communities. Participate in cooking demonstrations, traditional dances, and coffee-making experiences.
Join a guided evening walk to discover the forest’s nocturnal wildlife, such as bush babies, nightjars, and pottos. A unique way to experience the forest’s mysterious night sounds and hidden creatures.
At Uganda Horizon Safaris, we are proud to offer transformative nature experiences in Kibale Forest National Park. From the adrenaline of a chimpanzee sighting to the peace of birdwatching at sunrise, this destination touches every kind of traveler.
We handle all the logistics—from chimpanzee permits and accommodation bookings to professional guides and comfortable transport—so you can relax and immerse yourself in one of Africa’s richest forest ecosystems.
Whether you’re planning a stand-alone primate safari or combining Kibale with Queen Elizabeth, Bwindi, or Semuliki, we’ll tailor every detail to your style of adventure.
Book your chimpanzee trekking safari in Kibale Forest today with Uganda Horizon Safaris—Uganda’s nature is waiting to welcome you!
Kilimanjaro National Park is a Tanzanian national park, located 300 kilometres (190 mi) south of the equator and in Kilimanjaro Region, Tanzania. The park is located near the city of Moshi. The park includes the whole of Mount Kilimanjaro above the tree line and the surrounding montane forest belt and the impressive snow covered Uhuru Peak, the highest point of Africa (5.895 meters above sea level). Tanzania Horizon offers a wide range of private Kilimanjaro Climbs as well as regular Kilimanjaro Group Climbs. Please contact us for further information or visit our Kilimanjaro Information Page!