Kibale National Park in western Uganda is known as the “Primate Capital of the World” for its high concentration of chimpanzees and 12 other primate species. This 766 sq km park protects a unique rainforest with diverse landscapes and is a prime ecotourism destination for chimpanzee trekking, nature walks, and birdwatching. It forms a wildlife corridor with neighboring Queen Elizabeth National Park, making it a crucial habitat for various mammal species, including elephants and African buffalo.  

Key Features.

Primate Diversity: Kibale is home to a vast population of chimpanzees, along with 12 other primate species, including the red colobus monkey, Ugandan red colobus, L’Hoest’s monkey, and olive baboon. 

Diverse Ecosystems: The park features a rich mosaic of tropical rainforest, montane forests, grasslands, and swamps, supporting varied biodiversity. 

Wildlife Corridor: It forms a continuous 180km wildlife corridor with Queen Elizabeth National Park, allowing animals to migrate between the areas. 

Ecotourism: The park is Uganda’s premier destination for chimpanzee trekking, attracting visitors for its reliable sightings of these primates. 

Activities.

Chimpanzee Trekking: The most popular activity, offering a chance to see habituated chimpanzee communities. 

Nature Walks: Guided walks allow visitors to explore the forest and spot other primates, birds, and smaller mammals. 

Birdwatching: With over 350 bird species, Kibale is a top birding destination, especially for species endemic to the Albertine Rift region. 

Cultural Encounters: Visitors can interact with local communities to learn about their relationship with the forest ecosystem. 

Crater Lakes: Nearby attractions like the Ndali-Kasenda crater lakes offer beautiful scenery and additional exploration opportunities.