Gorilla & Chimpanzee Trekking Adventure in Uganda

Gorilla & Chimpanzee Trekking Adventure in Uganda

eaglesouladventure
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eaglesouladventure
Tour Expert
September 1, 2025 (Updated)

Gorilla & Chimpanzee Trekking Adventure in Uganda

Gorilla & Chimpanzee Trekking

There are few travel experiences in the world as intimate, humbling, and transformative as standing just meters away from a wild mountain gorilla or hearing the echoing calls of chimpanzees reverberate through a rainforest. Deep in the misty highlands and tropical jungles of Uganda, a land known as the Pearl of Africa, these unforgettable encounters await.

At Eagle Soul Adventure, we curate once-in-a-lifetime primate journeys that offer both wild adventure and soulful connection—with nature, with community, and with yourself.

Mountain Gorilla Trekking – Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

Mountain Gorilla Trekking – Bwindi Impenetrable Forest

Location: Bwindi Impenetrable National Park, Southwestern Uganda

Best Time to Go: June–September & December–February 

The Experience:

Trekking through the dense rainforest of Bwindi feels like stepping into another world—a primeval, emerald-cloaked Eden. Here, over half the world’s endangered mountain gorilla population resides, protected and thriving.

Guided by expert rangers and trackers, you'll hike through steep terrain and tangled undergrowth, following fresh nests, dung trails, and vocalizations until you find them: a gorilla family, lounging, feeding, or playing in the undergrowth. The moment your eyes lock with a silverback or a wide-eyed infant, all distance between species disappears.

You’re allowed one full hour in their presence—but the memory will last a lifetime.

Why Bwindi is Special:

  • UNESCO World Heritage Site
  • Over 120 individual gorillas in multiple habituated families
  • Unique opportunity for Gorilla Habituation Experience (4 hours with a semi-wild group)
  • Rich biodiversity: over 350 bird species, 200 butterfly species

Where to Stay:

Chimpanzee Tracking – Kibale Forest National Park

Chimpanzee Tracking – Kibale Forest National Park

Location: Western Uganda, near Fort Portal

Best Time to Go: June–October & December–March

The Experience:

Known as the Primate Capital of the World, Kibale Forest is home to 13 primate species and the largest population of chimpanzees in East Africa. Tracking these charismatic creatures takes you into a lush rainforest where every step could reveal a troop swinging above, foraging, or engaging in deeply expressive behavior.

You’ll spend about 1 hour with a habituated chimpanzee group—or opt for the Chimpanzee Habituation Experience for a full-day immersive adventure.

Highlights:

  • Wild, close-range encounters with chimpanzees
  • Possible sightings of red colobus monkeys, black-and-white colobus, and L’Hoest’s monkeys
  • Excellent birdwatching (over 370 species)
  • Scenic crater lakes and community coffee experiences nearby

Where to Stay:

Why Uganda for Primate Trekking?

Why Uganda for Primate Trekking?

Less crowded and more affordable than Rwanda

Home to both gorillas and chimpanzees, offering the full Great Ape experience
Diverse ecosystems—forests, lakes, mountains, and savannah all within reach
Warm and welcoming communities rooted in conservation partnerships
Additional adventures: Queen Elizabeth NP safaris, Kazinga Channel boat cruises, cultural tours

Trekking Tips from Eagle Soul Adventure

  • Fitness Counts: Gorilla trekking can last 2–6 hours. Prepare with some pre-trip hiking.
  • Permit Booking: Permits are limited—book 3–6 months in advance.
  • What to Wear: Long pants, long sleeves, gloves, gaiters, and good hiking boots.
  • Bring: Rain gear, insect repellent, refillable water bottle, snacks, and a camera with zoom.

Ethical Encounters with Purpose

At Eagle Soul Adventure, we ensure your primate trekking journey uplifts conservation and respects communities. We collaborate with local guides, porters, and conservation bodies so that your presence contributes to sustainable ecotourism protecting the forests and empowering those who call them home.

Start Your Great Ape Odyssey

From the mystical mountain trails of Bwindi to the echoing canopies of Kibale, your encounter with Uganda’s great apes will awaken something ancient and awe-inspiring within you. It’s not just about seeing gorillas or chimps ,it’s about being seen by them.

Ready to plan your Gorilla & Chimpanzee Trekking Adventure in Uganda?

Let Eagle Soul Adventure design a custom journey filled with connection, courage, and wild beauty.

Eagle Soul Adventure – Journey Wild, Come Home Transformed.

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