3-Day Chimpanzee Trekking Safari in Kibale Forest National Park
Overview:
Embark on a 3-day chimpanzee trekking in Kibale Forest National Park, Uganda’s primate capital. Home to the largest population of chimpanzees in Uganda, Kibale Forest offers an unforgettable experience of trekking to see these fascinating primates in their natural habitat. In addition to chimpanzee trekking, you will explore the park’s rich biodiversity, including other primate species, birds, and beautiful forest scenery.
Day 1: Drive from Kampala to Kibale Forest National Park
Morning:
- Early morning departure from Kampala with your professional guide from World Blossom Safaris.
- Drive west towards Kibale Forest National Park, passing through the lush green countryside, tea plantations, and traditional villages.
Afternoon:
- Arrive in Fort Portal town, the gateway to Kibale Forest, and enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.
- Continue to Kibale Forest National Park and check into your lodge.
Evening:
- Take a guided nature walk in the nearby Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary.
- This swamp is known for its rich biodiversity, including several species of monkeys, birds, and butterflies.
- Return to your lodge for dinner and an overnight stay.
Accommodation: Primate Lodge Kibale, Kibale Forest Camp, or Chimpanzee Guesthouse
Meals: Lunch and Dinner
Day 2: Chimpanzee Trekking in Kibale Forest and Nature Walk
Morning:
- Enjoy an early breakfast at the lodge.
- Head to the park headquarters for a briefing by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) rangers on chimpanzee trekking rules and guidelines.
- Begin your chimpanzee trek through the dense tropical rainforest of Kibale, led by experienced trackers and guides.
- Search for the park’s habituated chimpanzee families and observe them as they forage, play, and interact in their natural habitat.
- Spend up to one hour with the chimpanzees once you locate them, capturing memorable photographs and learning about their behavior.
Afternoon:
- Return to the lodge for lunch and some relaxation.
- Optional: Embark on a guided afternoon nature walk in the forest to explore more of Kibale’s diverse flora and fauna.
- You might encounter other primates such as red-tailed monkeys, L’Hoest’s monkeys, and grey-cheeked mangabeys.
Evening:
Accommodation: Primate Lodge Kibale, Kibale Forest Camp, or Chimpanzee Guesthouse
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 3: Visit to Crater Lakes and Return to Kampala
Morning:
- Have a leisurely breakfast at the lodge.
- Depart for a scenic drive to explore the nearby crater lakes region, characterized by beautiful crater lakes, rolling hills, and lush green vegetation.
- Enjoy a guided walk around the crater lakes, learning about their formation and local folklore.
Afternoon:
- Begin your journey back to Kampala, with a stopover for lunch en route.
- Continue the drive to Kampala, arriving in the late afternoon or early evening.
Meals: Breakfast and Lunch
Tour Includes:
- Ground transportation in a 4×4 safari vehicle
- Professional English-speaking guide
- Accommodation as per the itinerary
- Meals as indicated in the itinerary
- Chimpanzee trekking permit in Kibale Forest
- Guided nature walk in Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary
- Bottled water during the safari
Tour Excludes:
- International flights
- Visa fees
- Travel insurance
- Tips and gratuities
- Personal expenses (e.g., souvenirs, beverages)
- Optional activities not mentioned in the itinerary
End of the 3-Day Chimpanzee Trekking Safari in Kibale Forest National Park
Experience the thrill of trekking to see chimpanzees in the wild and explore the rich biodiversity of Kibale Forest