Cheesemans' Ecology Safaris
Face to Face with Uganda’s Primates: A Journey into the Wild
“Possibly one of the best trips I’ve ever taken! Uganda was beautiful, our time with the chimpanzees and gorillas was a once in a lifetime experience, and the accommodations were awesome!” -Nancy Frank
Uganda is a land where ancient forests hide the secrets of our closest primate relatives—from chimpanzees swinging through the canopy to mountain gorillas that call the Impenetrable Forest home. On Cheesemans’ Ecology Safaris primate safari, guests journey deep into the lush landscapes of Kibale National Park and Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, trekking through misty jungles to see wild primates in their natural habitats, unfiltered and raw in their beauty.
Trip Highlights:
- Chimpanzee tracking in Kibale National Park, home to 1,500 chimps and 12 other primate species.
- Three gorilla treks in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest, encountering endangered mountain gorillas.
- Immersive cultural experiences, including a visit to a local village and a women’s empowerment initiative.
- Spectacular birdwatching, with chances to see Albertine Rift endemics and colorful forest species.
- Luxury lodges nestled in the heart of the jungle, offering serene settings and unforgettable views.
- Expert-guided trekking adventures, navigating through some of Africa’s most pristine rainforests.
Arrival in Uganda: Entebbe’s Warm Welcome
Upon arrival in Entebbe, guests are welcomed with the vibrant greenery and warm hospitality that define Uganda. A peaceful stay at a comfortable lodge near Lake Victoria provides a chance to unwind and prepare for the adventures ahead. Over a delicious meal, excitement builds as travelers discuss the experiences awaiting them in the heart of Africa.
Kibale National Park: Into the Realm of the Chimpanzees
A Journey into the Jungle
A scenic transport guests to Kibale National Park, one of East Africa’s most biodiverse regions. This rainforest is home to 13 species of primates, including red colobus monkeys, olive baboons, and the charismatic L’Hoest’s monkey. But the true highlight is the chance to track wild chimpanzees in their natural habitat.
Tracking the Chimps: An Unforgettable Encounter
With an early morning start, trekkers venture into the dense jungle, guided by expert trackers who listen for telltale calls echoing through the trees. Suddenly, the group hears a deep pant-hoot, a signal from a nearby chimpanzee troop. As they move closer, the canopy comes alive—juvenile chimps swing effortlessly from branch to branch, while others groom each other or forage along the forest floor.
Spending time with these intelligent, social primates offers an intimate glimpse into their world. Watching them interact, communicate, and care for one another is both humbling and exhilarating—a powerful reminder of our shared evolutionary past.
© Scott Davis
© Scott Davis
© Scott Davis
© Scott Davis
© Scott Davis
Bwindi Impenetrable Forest: A Pilgrimage to the Mountain Gorillas
A Mystical Landscape – Nestled in the heart of Uganda, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest is a realm of towering trees, tangled vines, and mist-covered hills. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of Africa’s oldest and most ecologically rich forests, sheltering nearly half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas. It’s also the destination for gorilla trekking in Uganda.
Gorilla Trekking: The Ultimate Wildlife Encounter – Each morning, guests set out with expert guides to track one of Bwindi’s habituated gorilla families. The trek can be challenging—steep trails, thick vegetation, and muddy terrain make for an adventurous journey—but the reward is beyond words.
As the group approaches a clearing, the guide signals to stop. A massive silverback sits just ahead, his watchful gaze surveying his family. Nearby, a mother gently cradles her infant, while young gorillas playfully tumble through the undergrowth.
For one magical hour, guests observe these incredible primates up close, watching them forage, interact, and move with a quiet grace that defies their enormous size. It’s an experience that leaves an indelible mark, a reminder of how fragile yet powerful these creatures are—and why their conservation is so important.
Beyond the Gorillas: Exploring Bwindi’s Wonders
Between treks, guests have the opportunity to explore the cultural and ecological wonders of Bwindi. Some choose to visit Ride 4 a Woman, a community-driven initiative supporting local women through sustainable craftmaking. Others take a guided waterfall hike, keeping an eye out for colorful birds and, if lucky, the elusive pangolin.
Evenings at Bwindi Lodge are a time for reflection—stories shared around a crackling fire, the sounds of the jungle humming in the background, and the lingering awe of the day’s encounters.
The Journey Home: A Changed Perspective
As guests depart Uganda, they carry more than just photographs—they leave with a deep connection to the wild places and creatures they encountered. Seeing chimpanzees and mountain gorillas in their natural habitat is not just a wildlife experience—it’s a profound, humbling reminder of our place in the natural world.
Your Next Adventure Awaits!
Unforgettable Uganda safaris are just one of the many ways Cheesemans’ Ecology Safaris brings travelers face to face with the world’s most extraordinary primates. Whether tracking orangutans in Borneo, spotting lemurs in Madagascar, or embarking on another East African adventure, your next great wildlife encounter is waiting.