Can You See Gorillas and Chimpanzees in One Trip? 2027-2028 Guide

Overview

Absolutely! One of the greatest wildlife experiences in Africa is seeing both endangered mountain gorillas and wild chimpanzees on the same safari. Uganda is the only destination where travelers can comfortably combine gorilla trekking and chimpanzee tracking within one unforgettable trip, making it a top choice for primate lovers in 2027.

At Wild Planet Safaris, we specialize in tailor-made gorilla and chimpanzee safaris across Uganda and Rwanda, offering unforgettable adventures, experienced guides, comfortable accommodations, and personalized service.

Why Combine Gorilla and Chimpanzee Trekking?

A combined safari allows visitors to experience Africa’s two most famous primates in a single holiday while exploring Uganda’s incredible landscapes, wildlife, and cultures.

Benefits include:

• Save travel time and costs.
• Experience two unique primate encounters.
• Visit multiple national parks.
• Enjoy wildlife game drives and scenic landscapes.
• Learn about conservation efforts.
• Perfect for photographers and nature lovers.

Where to See Gorillas

Mountain gorillas are found in only three countries worldwide.

The best places include:

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Home to nearly half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas, Bwindi offers over 20 habituated gorilla families across four trekking sectors.

Highlights:

• Daily gorilla trekking
• Gorilla Habituation Experience
• Rich birdlife
• Stunning rainforest scenery

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

A quieter alternative offering a more intimate trekking experience with breathtaking volcanic landscapes.

Highlights:

• Nyakagezi Gorilla Family
• Golden monkey tracking
• Volcano hiking
• Beautiful panoramic views

Where to See Chimpanzees

Uganda has several excellent chimpanzee destinations.

Kibale Forest National Park

Known as the Primate Capital of the World, Kibale hosts over 1,500 chimpanzees.

Activities include:

• Chimpanzee tracking
• Chimpanzee habituation
• Bird watching
• Nature walks

Budongo Forest

Located near Murchison Falls National Park, Budongo offers excellent chimpanzee tracking with fewer crowds.

Kyambura Gorge

Known as the “Valley of Apes,” this dramatic gorge in Queen Elizabeth National Park provides a unique chimpanzee trekking experience.

Best Safari Itinerary

A typical combined safari lasts between 5 and 10 days.

5 Days

• Arrival in Uganda
• Chimpanzee tracking in Kibale
• Transfer to Bwindi
• Gorilla trekking
• Return to Entebbe

7 Days

Includes:

• Kibale Forest
• Queen Elizabeth National Park
• Bwindi Impenetrable Forest
• Wildlife game drives
• Boat cruise on Kazinga Channel
• Gorilla trekking

10 Days

Perfect for travelers wanting a complete Uganda safari including:

• Gorilla trekking
• Chimpanzee tracking
• Golden monkey tracking
• Murchison Falls
• Queen Elizabeth National Park
• Cultural experiences

Best Time to Visit

Gorilla and chimpanzee trekking are available year-round.

The best months are:

• January to February
• June to September
• December

These months offer:

• Easier hiking
• Better photography
• Less muddy trails
• Comfortable weather

Gorilla Permits

Visitors require permits before trekking.

Uganda Gorilla Permit:

• US$800 per person (Foreign Non-Residents)

Gorilla Habituation Permit:

• US$1,500 per person

Advance booking is highly recommended, especially during peak seasons.

Chimpanzee Permits

Permit prices vary depending on location.

Typical rates include:

• Kibale chimpanzee tracking
• Chimpanzee habituation
• Budongo Forest tracking
• Kyambura Gorge tracking

Booking early ensures availability.

What to Pack

Essential items include:

• Waterproof hiking boots
• Rain jacket
• Long trousers
• Long-sleeved shirts
• Gardening gloves
• Camera
• Binoculars
• Insect repellent
• Reusable water bottle
• Day backpack
• Sunscreen
• Hat

Fitness Requirements

Both gorilla and chimpanzee trekking involve walking through forests.

Visitors should be prepared for:

• Uneven terrain
• Moderate hiking
• High humidity
• Forest trails

A reasonable level of fitness is sufficient for most travelers.

Wildlife You May See

Besides gorillas and chimpanzees, Uganda offers opportunities to see:

• African elephants
• Lions
• Leopards
• Buffaloes
• Hippos
• Crocodiles
• Giant forest hogs
• Colobus monkeys
• L’Hoest’s monkeys
• Over 1,000 bird species

Conservation Matters

Your safari directly contributes to wildlife conservation.

Permit fees support:

• Gorilla protection
• Chimpanzee conservation
• Community development
• Ranger patrols
• Habitat preservation

Responsible tourism helps secure the future of these endangered primates.

Why Choose Wild Planet Safaris

Wild Planet Safaris is committed to delivering authentic and memorable African adventures.

Why travel with us?

Local Expertise

Our experienced safari consultants and professional guides know Uganda’s parks inside and out, ensuring a seamless journey.

Customized Safaris

We design private, family, honeymoon, luxury, budget, and group tours tailored to your interests and schedule.

Guaranteed Permit Assistance

We help secure gorilla and chimpanzee permits well in advance, making trip planning stress-free.

Comfortable Accommodation

Choose from budget, mid-range, or luxury lodges located close to trekking destinations.

Reliable Transport

Travel in comfortable 4×4 safari vehicles with experienced driver-guides for safe and enjoyable journeys.

Multi-Country Tours

Combine Uganda with Rwanda, Kenya, or Tanzania for an even richer East African safari experience.

Excellent Customer Service

From your first inquiry to the end of your safari, our team is dedicated to providing personalized support and unforgettable experiences.

Conclusion

Yes, you can absolutely see gorillas and chimpanzees in one trip, and Uganda remains the best destination to make this dream adventure a reality in 2027. Combining gorilla trekking in Bwindi or Mgahinga with chimpanzee tracking in Kibale, Budongo, or Kyambura creates one of Africa’s most rewarding wildlife experiences. Beyond primates, you’ll discover spectacular landscapes, diverse wildlife, vibrant cultures, and warm hospitality.

At Wild Planet Safaris, we take care of every detail, from permits and accommodation to transportation and expert guiding, so you can focus on creating lifelong memories. Whether you’re planning a short primate safari or a comprehensive East African adventure, our team is ready to help you experience Africa at its very best.