Kibale National Park

Kibale National Park in western Uganda is celebrated for its rich primate diversity, notably housing one of the largest populations of chimpanzees. The park’s lush tropical forests provide a haven for 13 primate species, offering exceptional trekking opportunities.

Overview

Covering approximately 795 square kilometers, Kibale National Park encompasses a variety of ecosystems, including tropical rainforest, swamp, and grassland. The park is most renowned for its primate inhabitants, boasting Uganda’s largest population of chimpanzees, as well as other species like red colobus, black-and-white colobus, L’Hoest’s monkeys, and grey-cheeked mangabeys. The Kanyanchu Primate Walk is a highlight, offering visitors the chance to track chimpanzees and observe their behaviors up close. Beyond primates, Kibale is home to over 120 mammal species, including olive baboons, forest elephants, bush pigs, and various antelope species. Bird enthusiasts will find approximately 370 bird species, with 23 Albertine Rift endemics. Guided nature walks, nocturnal forest walks, and community tours enrich the visitor experience, providing insights into the park’s ecological importance and local culture.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Kibale National Park is during the dry seasons: December to February and June to September. During these months, forest trails are more navigable, enhancing the chimpanzee tracking experience. However, Kibale’s equatorial climate means that rain is possible year-round, so visitors should be prepared for sudden showers regardless of the season.

Jan

Excellent

Feb

Excellent

Mar

Good

Apr

Good

May

Mixed

Jun

Excellent

Jul

Excellent

Aug

Excellent

Sep

Excellent

Oct

Good

Nov

Good

Dec

Excellent

Known For

Chimpanzee Tracking – Kibale is one of the best places in Africa to observe wild chimpanzees, with a high success rate and immersive forest treks that bring you close to these intelligent primates.

Primate Capital of East Africa – Home to 13 species of primates including red colobus, L’Hoest’s monkeys and grey-cheeked mangabeys sightings often come thick and fast.

Lush Rainforest Atmosphere – With tall trees, rich birdlife, and a soundtrack of rustling leaves and distant calls, Kibale offers an unforgettable, jungle-led safari experience.

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See all Properties in Kibale National Park

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Kibale Lodge

Kibale Lodge, opened in July 2024 by Volcanoes Safaris, offers luxurious accommodations near Uganda’s Kibale National Park. The lodge features eight hand-built bandas with private terraces, providing panoramic views of the Rwenzori Mountains and the Queen Elizabeth plains.

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Wildlife

Great Apes

Great apes include orangutans, gorillas, chimpanzees, and bonobos. They are known for their intelligence, social structures, and complex behaviors. Great apes share a significant amount of DNA with humans, making them vital for understanding our own evolution. Unfortunately, many great ape species are endangered due to habitat destruction and hunting, highlighting the need for conservation efforts to protect these remarkable animals.

Gallery

Discover the stunning vistas and rich wildlife showcased in our gallery. Each photograph narrates a tale of exploration and the raw beauty of the safari.

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Ideal Pairing

“Make this a true great apes tour by heading on to Bwindi Impenetrable Forest and seeing mountain gorillas. Chimpanzees are the perfect way to practice the intricacies of jungle photography before you get to the headline act.”

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