Species guide · Most wanted
Where to see chimpanzees in Africa
Our closest living relatives are loud, fast and endlessly fascinating to watch. Tracking a habituated chimpanzee community through the forest, guided by their calls, is one of the great wildlife experiences, and it pairs naturally with gorilla trekking.
Quick answer
Kibale Forest in Uganda is the most reliable place to see chimpanzees, with well-habituated communities and high success rates. Nyungwe Forest in Rwanda is the main option there. Kibale permits are about US$250 per person in 2026, rising to US$300 from January 2027. The drier months, June to September and December to February, are easiest.
Best regionKibale Forest, Uganda
Best timeJune to September, December to February
PermitAbout US$250 at Kibale (2026)
The best places to look
Uganda
Kibale Forest
The primate capital of East Africa, with habituated chimpanzee communities and a longer habituation experience for those who want more time.
Rwanda
Nyungwe Forest
Montane rainforest with chimpanzees, many other primates and excellent birding, an easy add-on to gorillas in Volcanoes.
When to go
| Months | Chances | Why |
|---|---|---|
| June to September | Best | Dry season: firmer trails and easier walking. |
| December to February | Best | Short dry season, with good conditions. |
| March to May, October to November | Possible | Rains make trails muddy, but the forest is at its greenest. |
Tips from the field
- Book permits ahead, especially in the dry seasons.
- Choose the longer habituation experience at Kibale if you want hours rather than one hour with the chimps.
- Combine with gorillas in Bwindi or Volcanoes, and with tree-climbing lions in Queen Elizabeth.
Questions travellers ask
How much is a chimpanzee permit in Uganda?
About US$250 per person for chimpanzee tracking in Kibale in 2026, rising to US$300 from January 2027. Prices change, so confirm before you book.
How long do you spend with the chimpanzees?
Usually one hour once they are found. The habituation experience allows much longer.
Kibale or Nyungwe?
Kibale gives the most reliable sightings. Nyungwe suits travellers already in Rwanda for gorillas.
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