Combining Gorillas and Chimpanzee on Uganda Safari

Uganda is a wildlife lover’s paradise. It is one of the few countries in the world where you can observe both mountain gorillas and chimpanzees in their natural habitats. Combining gorilla trekking and chimpanzee tracking on a single safari provides a truly unforgettable experience, blending adventure, wildlife observation, and cultural immersion.

Why Combine Gorilla and Chimpanzee Experiences?

Mountain gorillas and chimpanzees are our closest living relatives, yet each offers a distinct wildlife encounter. Gorillas, with their calm, social groups, provide intimate and majestic viewing experiences, while chimpanzees, more energetic and mischievous, display fascinating behaviors in the wild. Combining both treks allows travelers to experience Uganda’s rich primate biodiversity in one adventure, maximizing value and creating lifetime memories.

Ideal Itinerary for Gorilla and Chimpanzee Safari

A typical combined safari lasts 5 to 7 days, covering Uganda’s premier primate destinations:

1. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
   • Gorilla Trekking: Bwindi is home to over half of the world’s mountain gorilla population. Trekkers spend hours navigating dense forest trails to observe habituated gorilla families. Each trek is guided by experienced rangers who ensure safety and share insights into gorilla behavior and ecology.
   • Cultural Experiences: Travelers can also visit local Batwa communities to learn about their traditions and forest-based lifestyle.
2. Mgahinga Gorilla National Park (Optional)
   • This smaller park offers a quieter gorilla trekking experience and golden monkey tracking, ideal for travelers seeking less crowded environments.
3. Kibale Forest National Park
   • Chimpanzee Tracking: Known as the “primate capital of the world,” Kibale Forest houses over 1,500 chimpanzees. Treks involve walking through tropical rainforest, guided by expert rangers, to locate chimpanzee troops. Observers witness their playful interactions, tool use, and social hierarchy.
   • Additional Wildlife: Kibale also hosts over 13 primate species, including red colobus monkeys and mangabeys, making it a primate enthusiast’s dream.

Planning Your Combined Safari

• Permits: Both gorilla and chimpanzee tracking require permits. Gorilla permits cost approximately $700 for foreign visitors, while chimpanzee permits are around $150. Booking early, especially during peak seasons (June–September and December–February), is essential.
• Best Time to Go: Dry seasons are ideal for trekking. June to September and December to February offer better trail conditions and wildlife visibility.
• Physical Preparation: Gorilla trekking can be physically demanding due to steep terrain, while chimpanzee tracking is moderately challenging. Wear sturdy hiking boots, comfortable clothing, and bring rain gear, gloves, and a walking stick.

Benefits of Booking with a Professional Tour Operator

Professional operators like Pawmac Safaris handle all logistics, including airport transfers, park permits, accommodation, and guided treks. Their expert guides enhance the experience by interpreting wildlife behavior, ensuring safety, and offering tips for photography. Choosing a trusted operator makes the safari seamless and more enjoyable.

Enhancing Your Safari

A combined gorilla and chimpanzee safari can be enriched with additional activities:

• Wildlife Game Drives: Explore Queen Elizabeth or Murchison Falls National Park for lions, elephants, buffaloes, and giraffes.
• Boat Safaris: Kazinga Channel and Lake Mutanda provide excellent birdwatching and scenic views.
• Cultural Tours: Engage with local communities to learn about traditional lifestyles and crafts.