Chimpanzee Trekking in Budongo

May 21, 2026

Chimpanzee Trekking in Budongo Forest

Chimpanzee trekking in the Budongo Forest offers one of Uganda’s most accessible primate experiences, with permits costing approximately $80–$180 per person, excluding standard park entry fees for visitors accessing the forest via Murchison Falls National Park.

Budongo is the largest mahogany forest in East Africa and supports an estimated 800 chimpanzees, many of which are habituated to human presence across different study and tourism groups. Located just about 30 minutes from the southern gate of Murchison Falls, it is an ideal extension to a classic savannah safari.

Budongo Forest and Its Chimpanzees

Budongo Forest Reserve spans approximately 440 km² and forms part of the wider Murchison Falls Conservation Area. The forest is characterized by dense mahogany and ironwood trees, creating a rich habitat for primates and birdlife.

In addition to chimpanzees, Budongo is home to:

• Red-tailed monkeys
• Black-and-white colobus monkeys
• Grey-cheeked mangabeys
• Olive baboons

The famous Sonso community, located in the Royal Mile sector, has been studied continuously since 1990, making it one of Africa’s longest-running chimpanzee research sites.

Trekking Experience

Chimpanzee trekking begins at around 07:00 AM from the ranger post. Groups are limited to a maximum of 6 visitors per permit, accompanied by a professional ranger and tracker team.

The experience includes:

• Tracking chimps using forest trails and radio communication with scouts
• A trekking duration of 30 minutes to 3 hours depending on movement
• One hour with a habituated chimpanzee group once located
• Minimum safe distance of 8 meters
• Unrestricted photography during the encounter

Sightings are highly successful, with habituated groups offering over 85% success rates on most days.

Trekking Zones in Budongo

Budongo has two main chimpanzee tracking areas:

• Kaniyo Pabidi Sector – Managed by Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA), offering standard trekking permits
• Royal Mile Sector – Operated around the Budongo Eco Lodge area, known for its dense canopy and research-based chimp communities

Each sector offers a different forest experience and distinct habituated chimpanzee groups.

Combining Budongo with Murchison Falls Safari

Chimpanzee trekking in Budongo is best combined with a safari in Murchison Falls National Park.

A recommended itinerary includes:

• 2 nights for game drives and a Nile boat cruise in Murchison Falls
• 1 night near Budongo Forest for chimp trekking
• Seamless transfer between the savannah and rainforest ecosystems

This combination offers one of Uganda’s most rewarding wildlife circuits in a short time.

Fitness Level and Travel Tips

• Moderate fitness is required
• Trails are generally flat but may be slippery during rains
• Proper hiking shoes are recommended
• Carry insect repellent, water, and light rain gear

Booking Information

Chimpanzee permits should be booked 2–3 weeks in advance during peak season (July–September). Outside peak months, last-minute bookings may be possible depending on availability.

Final Note

Budongo Forest offers a unique opportunity to experience chimpanzees in a natural, research-rich environment while easily combining the trek with a classic safari in Murchison Falls. It is an excellent choice for travelers seeking both convenience and authentic primate encounters.

Contact us today to plan your chimpanzee trekking safari in Uganda.