Meet the Chimpanzees of Africa

If you think gorilla trekking is the ultimate primate experience, think again! Chimpanzee tracking is just as exhilarating – if not more – thanks to their lively, social nature. 

Unlike gorillas, which often sit calmly in family groups, chimpanzees are highly active, constantly swinging through trees, vocalizing, and interacting in dynamic ways. They are incredibly intelligent and exhibit a range of fascinating behaviours, from tool use to intricate social dynamics. 

Unlike gorillas, which remain in close-knit families, chimps move in fission-fusion groups, making every sighting a unique experience. They also communicate with loud calls and dramatic displays, ensuring an action-packed adventure through the forests.

Chimpanzee tracking is an incredible experience that takes you deep into lush forests, where you will hike through diverse terrain in search of these energetic primates. Expect an early morning start, as chimps are most active in the cooler hours of the day. Along the way, you’ll be accompanied by expert guides and trackers who will help locate the chimps using their vocal calls and fresh signs of movement.

Once you find them, prepare for an unforgettable hour of observation. Chimps are incredibly animated, often seen grooming each other, playfully chasing through the trees, or even using tools to extract food. Their calls echo through the forest, creating a truly immersive experience. 

If you’re looking for an unforgettable wildlife adventure, here are a few of our favourite places to go chimpanzee spotting in Africa…

Uganda is widely beloved as the primate capital of the world, and Kibale National Park is its crown jewel for chimpanzee tracking. Home to over 1,500 chimpanzees, the park offers some of the best opportunities to observe these fascinating creatures in their natural habitat. In the heart of this natural oasis is Kibale Lodge – the perfect base for your adventure, offering an immersive rainforest experience with comfortable accommodations nestled in the lush greenery.

While Rwanda is known mainly for its mountain gorillas, it also offers excellent chimpanzee trekking experiences. One & Only Gorilla’s Nest, a luxury lodge near Volcanoes National Park, provides a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. From here, you can take a guided trip to Nyungwe Forest National Park, where you’ll find large troops of wild chimpanzees swinging through the ancient montane forest.

Although Kenya is famous for its safari game drives, it also offers fantastic opportunities for primate encounters. Mahali Mzuri, Sir Richard Branson’s luxury safari camp in the Maasai Mara, provides access to chimpanzee tracking in the epic Gombe Stream National Park – just a short flight or boat ride away. Gombe is one of the most historic places for chimpanzee research, made famous by Dr. Jane Goodall’s groundbreaking work.

Ready for your unforgettable chimp spotting adventure? Let’s make it happen!