The Cost of Chimpanzee Permits in Uganda and Rwanda
Chimpanzee trekking is one of the most sought-after wildlife experiences in East Africa, ranking just after gorilla trekking in Rwanda. Both Uganda and Rwanda offer unique opportunities for travelers to observe these fascinating primates in their natural habitats. Chimpanzee trekking in the region takes place in designated areas, including Nyungwe National Park in Rwanda, as well as Queen Elizabeth National Park, Murchison Falls National Park, Kalinzu Forest, and Kibale Forest in Uganda. This activity allows visitors to get close to chimpanzees and enjoy memorable encounters with these intelligent and social animals.
The Cost of Chimpanzee Permits in Uganda
Before embarking on a chimpanzee trekking adventure, travelers are required to purchase permits from the official authorities. In Uganda, permits are issued by the Uganda Wildlife Authority, while in Rwanda, they are managed by the Rwanda Development Board. Permits can also be booked through trusted tour operators such as Gecko Safaris Africa, ensuring a seamless and well-organized experience.
What is a Chimpanzee Permit?
A chimpanzee permit gives tourists legal access to visit a habituated chimpanzee group. It includes park entry, a one-hour encounter, a trained park guide, and an armed ranger for safety. Uganda and Rwanda offer permits for standard trekking or the more immersive habituation experience, where travelers spend longer with the chimps and researchers. The habituation option costs more but offers a richer experience. Only visitors aged 15 and above can get chimpanzee permits.
Cost of Chimpanzee Permits by Site in Uganda
Uganda offers several prime chimpanzee trekking locations, giving travelers a variety of options. It is also the only country in East Africa offering the chimpanzee habituation experience. The costs vary depending on the trekking site:
Kibale Forest National Park: Located in southwestern Uganda, Kibale Forest is the largest chimpanzee habitat in the country, covering approximately 795 square kilometers. It is home to around 1,500 chimpanzees, along with 12 other monkey species and diverse wildlife. From July 2024, the standard chimpanzee trekking permit for international tourists costs $250, while the habituation experience permit is $300. Foreign residents pay $200 for a standard permit and $250 for habituation. East African residents pay 180,000 Uganda Shillings for the standard permit and 250,000 Uganda Shillings for the habituation experience.
Budongo Forest: An extension of Murchison Falls National Park, Budongo Forest covers around 825 square kilometers and hosts about 600 chimpanzees in four communities. Visitors can trek in any of the four communities, with permits priced at $130 for foreign non-residents, $120 for foreign residents, and $85 for East African citizens.
Kyambura Gorge and Kalinzu Forest: Kyambura Gorge, located within Queen Elizabeth National Park, and Kalinzu Forest, situated nearby, are excellent chimpanzee trekking destinations in western Uganda. Starting July 2024, permits for Kyambura Gorge are $100 for international tourists, $80 for foreign residents, and 50,000 Uganda Shillings for East African residents. Permits for Kalinzu Forest are $50 for international visitors and 30,000 Uganda Shillings for East African residents. In Kalinzu, permits are issued by the Uganda Forestry Authority, while Kyambura Gorge permits come from the Uganda Wildlife Authority.
Cost of Chimpanzee Permits in Rwanda
In Rwanda, chimpanzee trekking is possible exclusively in Nyungwe Forest National Park, a sprawling rainforest of approximately 200 square kilometers. The forest is home to over 500 chimpanzees spread across four communities. Chimpanzee permits cost $150 for international visitors, $75 for foreign residents, and $25 for East African citizens. In addition to the permit, international visitors pay $100 as park entrance, foreign residents $60, and East African citizens $10.
How to Book a Chimpanzee Permit
Booking chimpanzee permits in Uganda and Rwanda can be done through the respective government authorities, but securing permits directly has become increasingly challenging. Most travelers now book through reputable tour operators such as Gecko Safaris Africa, which ensures guaranteed permits and a well-organized trekking experience. It is advisable to make bookings at least six months in advance, especially during peak seasons, when permits can be difficult to obtain.
The Best Time to See Chimpanzees in Uganda and Rwanda
Chimpanzees can be observed year-round, but the dry season is generally the most favorable. Trails are easier to navigate, and vegetation is less dense, improving visibility of the primates. Modern tracking technology, along with dedicated teams of guides and park rangers, ensures a high probability of chimpanzee sightings, making any visit both safe and rewarding.
For travelers seeking an unforgettable wildlife adventure, Gecko Safaris Africa can organize your chimpanzee trekking experience in Uganda or Rwanda, ensuring a smooth, safe, and enriching journey. Plan your next primate adventure with us and explore the incredible wildlife these countries have to offer.
