Kibale Forest National Park

The Primate Capital of the World - Where Chimpanzees Rule the Forest

13

Primate Species

370

Bird Species

766

Square Kilometers

11

Chimp Families

The Primate Paradise

Kibale Forest National Park covers 766 square kilometers of pristine tropical forest, standing at 1,590m above sea level. Known as the "Primate Capital of the World," Kibale is home to 13 species of primates, including the endangered chimpanzees - our closest living relatives sharing 99% of human DNA.

Location

Western Uganda, 26km southeast of Fort Portal

Climate

Cool and wet with temperatures 14-27°C

Best Time

Year-round, with June-September being ideal

Wildlife & Biodiversity

The Chimpanzees

Kibale Forest is home to the largest population of chimpanzees in East Africa, with approximately 1,500 individuals living in 11 habituated families. These intelligent primates share 99% of their DNA with humans, making encounters with them profoundly moving and educational experiences.

Primates

  • Chimpanzees (1,500+ individuals)
  • L'Hoest's Monkeys
  • Blue Monkeys
  • Vervet Monkeys
  • Red-tailed Monkeys
  • Black & White Colobus
  • Olive Baboons
  • Grey-cheeked Mangabeys

Birds

  • 370 Bird Species
  • Albertine Rift Endemics
  • Nathan's Francolin
  • Blue-headed Bee-eater
  • Cassin's Spinetail
  • Masked Apalis

Flora

  • 250+ Tree Species
  • Tropical Rainforest
  • Giant Mahoganies
  • Ancient Fig Trees
  • Epiphytes & Lianas
  • Butterfly Species

Adventure Activities

Chimpanzee Tracking

The main attraction of Kibale Forest. Trek through the forest to encounter chimpanzees in their natural habitat. Limited to 8 visitors per group with 1-hour viewing time.

Daily Activity 8 People Max 1 Hour Viewing

Chimpanzee Habituation Experience

Spend a full day with researchers tracking less-habituated chimpanzee groups. Witness their daily activities from dawn to dusk.

Full Day Research Experience Limited Availability

Bird Watching

Kibale is a birder's paradise with 370 species, including many Albertine Rift endemics. Expert guides help spot rare forest specialists.

370 Species Expert Guides Year-round

Bigodi Community Walk

Visit the Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary and local community. Learn about traditional culture, crafts, and conservation efforts.

Cultural Community Educational

Nocturnal Walks

Explore the forest at night to discover nocturnal animals like bush babies, nightjars, and other creatures of the dark.

Night Activity Nocturnal Wildlife Guided

Nature Walks

Guided walks through the forest to learn about the ecosystem, medicinal plants, and the incredible biodiversity of Kibale.

Educational Guided Photography

Where to Stay

Kyaninga Lodge

Luxury lodge with stunning crater lake views and world-class amenities near Kibale Forest.

Papaya Lake Lodge

Intimate luxury lodge with beautiful lake views and excellent service.

Primate Lodge Kibale

Eco-luxury lodge located within the park, perfect for early morning chimp tracking.

Chimpanzee Forest Guesthouse

Comfortable mid-range option with excellent location near the park entrance.

Kibale Forest Camp

Cozy tented camp offering authentic safari experience with modern comforts.

Isunga Lodge

Family-friendly lodge with spacious rooms and beautiful garden setting.

Kibale Forest Cottages

Budget-friendly cottages with basic amenities and great location.

Rwenzori View Guesthouse

Simple but clean accommodation perfect for budget-conscious travelers.

Community Camping

Basic camping facilities with proceeds supporting local community initiatives.

Getting There

By Air

Fly to Kasese airstrip with scheduled flights from Entebbe. From Kasese, arrange transfer to Kibale Forest (about 1 hour drive).

1 hour from Entebbe Daily flights

By Road

From Kampala via Fort Portal (300km, 5-6 hours) or via Mbarara and Kamwenge (350km, 6-7 hours). Well-maintained roads throughout.

5-7 hours from Kampala 4x4 recommended

Public Transport

Regular buses from Kampala to Fort Portal. From Fort Portal, arrange private transfer to Kibale Forest (26km).

Budget option Local experience