With lush tropical rainforest and fascinating diversity of animals, Kibale National Park (KNP) is one of the most beautiful and stunning forests in Uganda. Kibale forest is certainly worth protecting as it is home to the largest number (in Uganda) of our closest living relative, the endagered chimpanzee, as well as the threatened red colobus monkey and the rare L’Hoest’s monkey.

The most famous inhabitants of Kibale National Park are the chimpanzees with over 1,450 individuals protected within the park. At Kanyanchu, a community of chimpanzees has been habituated since 1991, allowing visitors the unique opportunity to view these great apes in their natural environment (with more than 90% chance of viewing).

A range of activities are available to participate in at the national park, from the Chimpanzee Habituation project to the Primate walk, which starts from Kanyanchu River Camp at 8:00am or 3:00pm and lasts for 2-4 hours. For the adventurous visitor who wants to enjoy more in the forest, you may take a 64km guided walk, which starts from either Kanyanchu or Sebitoli and end at either site, passing through different habitats and local communities over a period of 2-6 days, camping at the community camp grounds. Community campsites at Kinoni, Nyaibanda and Nyakalongo offer local dishes, traditional dances and walks to community shambas. Visitors can hire a porter(s) to carry their bags. Activities for children under 12 who are unable to join in the chimpanzee viewing due to age restrictions are also on offer, and include educational walks, photography and pond-dipping among others.

Besides being an exciting holiday destination, Kibale National Park is an important site for conservation and research. The Uganda Wildlife Authority, with assistance from the Jane Goodall Institute, started the Kibale Primate Habituation Project, which focuses on habituating the chimpanzees to human presence. This has increased the chances of viewing chimpanzees to over 90%, allowing visitors the fantastic opportunity to view these great apes in their natural environment. Funds generated through tourism help to further protect the park and its biodiversity, carry out research and support local community projects.

Fees are charged both for park entrance and for guided walks. Different rates apply for different activities and visitors categories (adult and youth, foreign non-residents, East African residents and Ugandan citizens). Visitors can apply in Uganda shillings, US dollars and Euro based on current rates quoted at the point of entry.