Chimpanzee trekking is one of the most electric wildlife experiences in East Africa. While gorilla trekking is often described as a “quiet, spiritual encounter,” chimpanzee trekking is its loud, chaotic, and high-energy cousin.

Lately the landscape for Chimpanzee trekking is well-established across Uganda, Rwanda, and Tanzania. Here is everything you need to know to plan your adventure.

Top Destinations

1. Uganda: The Primate Capital

Uganda offers the most variety and the highest success rates (often over 95%).

• Kibale National Park: The gold standard. It has the highest density of primates in Africa and offers both standard treks and Habituation Experiences (CHEX), where you spend 4 hours (or a full day) with the chimps.
• Budongo Forest: Located near Murchison Falls, it’s famous for its giant mahogany trees and is generally flatter and easier to hike.
• Kyambura Gorge: Known as the “Valley of Apes,” this is a dramatic sunken forest in the middle of a savanna—the scenery alone is worth the trek.
• Kalinzu Central Forest Reserve: Kalinzu Forest Reserve is one of Uganda’s central forest reserves, a perfect place to enjoy guided chimpanzee tracking safaris. Located in Western Uganda, Bushenyi District, Kalinzu Forest lies close to Queen Elizabeth National Park and Maramagambo Forest. Like most natural forests, Kalinzu Forest Reserve is in the list of central forest reserves that is managed by Uganda National Forestry (NFA).

Rwanda: The Emerald Forest

Nyungwe National Park: A massive, ancient mountain rainforest. Trekking here is scenic but can be physically demanding due to the steep terrain. It features a world-famous canopy walk you can do after your trek.

Tanzania: The Historic Choice

Gombe Stream & Mahale Mountains: These are remote, luxury-leaning destinations on the shores of Lake Tanganyika. Gombe is where Jane Goodall began her research. Access is usually by boat or light aircraft, making it the most exclusive (and expensive) option.