Gorilla Trekking and Chimpanzee Tracking in East Africa: Where to Do Both

For travelers seeking the ultimate primate safari, the ability to combine both gorilla trekking and chimpanzee tracking in a single trip is a major draw. It is a journey that offers not only the thrill of seeing these magnificent great apes but also a profound connection to the lush, wild forests they call home. While a few countries offer both experiences, one stands out as the most logical and accessible option for a combined safari.

The Best Destination for Both: Uganda

Uganda is widely considered the premier destination for a combined gorilla and chimpanzee safari. The country offers a high concentration of both primates in parks that are relatively close to each other, allowing for a seamless and efficient itinerary.

Gorilla Trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Bwindi is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to roughly half of the world’s remaining mountain gorilla population. The park is renowned for its immersive and challenging gorilla treks, which often take you deep into a misty, ancient rainforest. The hike is demanding, with steep, muddy slopes, but the support of an experienced guide and porters (highly recommended) makes it manageable. The reward is immense: a precious hour of silence, where you can sit and observe a gorilla family as they feed, groom, and play. The experience is intimate and powerful, offering a truly life-changing encounter.

Chimpanzee Tracking in Kibale Forest National Park

Just a few hours’ drive from Bwindi is Kibale Forest National Park, often referred to as the “Primate Capital of the World.” Kibale is the best and most reliable place in East Africa for chimpanzee tracking, boasting the highest concentration of these primates. The tracking success rate here is extremely high, and the experience is well-organized. For a more immersive encounter, you can opt for the Chimpanzee Habituation Experience, a full-day program that allows you to join researchers and spend several hours with a chimpanzee community, witnessing them as they come to life in the morning or prepare for bed in the evening.

How to Combine in Uganda:

The most common and efficient itinerary involves flying into Entebbe (Uganda’s international airport), driving to Kibale Forest for chimpanzee tracking, and then continuing south to Bwindi for gorilla trekking. The entire journey can be a mix of road travel and short domestic flights, allowing for a fantastic loop that can also include other national parks like Queen Elizabeth National Park for a classic game drive safari.

The Alternative: Rwanda

Rwanda also offers both experiences, but with a different set of logistics and costs.

Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes National Park

Volcanoes National Park is synonymous with gorilla trekking and is where Dian Fossey conducted her famous research. The trekking here is often considered less strenuous than in Uganda due to the more open, mountainous terrain. However, the high altitude can still be a challenge. The high cost of a permit makes this a more exclusive, luxury experience.

Chimpanzee Tracking in Nyungwe Forest National Park

Nyungwe is an ancient montane rainforest and a fantastic destination for chimpanzee tracking. The park is known for its biodiversity, including a total of 13 primate species. The trekking here can be challenging due to the dense vegetation and steep slopes, but it is a rewarding experience for those who appreciate the untouched beauty of a pristine rainforest.

The Comparison: Uganda vs. Rwanda

For travelers whose primary goal is to do both gorilla trekking and chimpanzee tracking on one safari, Uganda offers the most logical, affordable, and comprehensive itinerary. It is the perfect destination to see these two magnificent primate species in their wild homes, along with a classic savannah safari.