Frequently asked questions about chimpanzee trekking experiences
Chimpanzee trekking experiences are second only to mountain gorilla trekking in terms of popularity, thrill, and excitement for everyone involved. Both of these excursions take place in forested regions, allowing you to encounter primates up close. Because they are comparable and mountain gorilla trekking is more popular, many people are curious about the trekking experience. In this article, we will answer some of the most often asked questions about chimpanzee trekking experiences, particularly in the East African region.
It is important to note that this list of questions only includes the most often requested questions, not necessarily the most popular ones, and is not an entire list of all questions.

The questions are:
Can I do chimpanzee and mountain gorilla trekking in the same forest on the trip?
Of course, you can; you simply need to adjust your safari plan to accommodate both activities. It is important to understand, however, that chimps do not stay in the same environments, thus you will be moving from one to another. Simply consider that into your plan.
Which East African countries have chimpanzees?
In East Africa, Uganda, Rwanda, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo are the most popular countries for chimps, with Uganda having the most of these creatures, earning the nickname primate capital. Tanzania also has chimpanzees, in addition to the three mentioned.
Chimpanzee parks you should not fail to visit are Kibale National Park in Uganda, Nyungwe National Park in Rwanda, and Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Can a mountain gorilla permit work for chimpanzee trekking?
Absolutely not; these are two different activities with separate permits for each. So, you have to get the respective permits for the activity you are doing at a particular time.
When is the best time for chimpanzee trekking?
Anytime of the year is good for trekking, and you can spot the chimpanzees; however, almost 90% of the trekkers will trek in the sunny or dry season because the trekking trails are more bearable then.
What’s the age limit for chimpanzee trekking?
The age limit for chimpanzee trekking is 15 years and above. This means that anyone 15 years and older can trek the chimpanzees.
Are chimpanzee trekking rules the same as the mountain gorilla rules?
They are quite similar, and they include, but are not limited to: not using flash photography; keeping a 10 m distance between you and the chimpanzees; not harming the chimpanzees in any way; don’t feed the chimpanzees; don’t drink, eat, smoke, cough, or squeeze in the presence of the chimpanzees.
These are many more rules; your tour operator and trekking guide will be in a position to communicate more.
How much does chimpanzee trekking cost?
In the east African region, chimpanzee trekking experiences will cost between 300 USD and 150 USD. Prices vary depending on the chimpanzee park.
Can you do other fun activities on a chimpanzee trekking experience?
Yes, you can, and some of these other fun activities include bird watching, nature walks, forest walks, butterfly watching, nature cycling, and many more.
How long is a chimpanzee trekking experience?
Usually the trek itself will take between 6 and 8 hours total of the ascent and descent, and you will spend an hour with the chimpanzees. The specific times will be determined by the place you’re having your chimpanzee trek at.
Do I need specific physical training for chimpanzee trekking?
Not really, the good thing. Chimpanzees live in fairly flat, grounded habitats compared to the gorillas, so you don’t really have to have special physical training, but you have to be able to endure a 6- to 8-hour walk.