Kibale National Park, Uganda

Kibale

The best place in Uganda for some thrilling chimpanzee trekking.

Not only do we think Kibale is one of the most beautiful parks in Uganda, dotted with beautiful crater lakes against a backdrop of the Rwenzori Mountains, but it is also the best place in Uganda for some thrilling chimpanzee trekking. The birding here is also superb with over 330 species recorded in the park, along with the dazzling colours from the clouds of butterflies that follow you around.

Chimps grooming, Kibale, Uganda
Kibale, Uganda

A little more about Kibale

It’s not just the chimpanzees that make Kibale so appealing – it is home to a remarkable 13 primate species, including the much localised red colobus and L’Hoest’s monkey. Many of the self-guided trails offer a network of shady paths, filled with butterflies of all shapes and sizes. The elusive forest elephant also moves seasonally through the park, but more regularly seen species include the giant forest hog and a number of smaller antelope species.

Monkey, Ndali Lodge, Kibale
Kibale, Uganda
Baboons, Kibale, Uganda
Kibale, Uganda

Why visit Kibale

  • Stand in awe as a troop of 60 plus chimps scramble through the treetops
  • Visit the Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary for several localised bird species
  • Explore a number of the spectacular crater lakes in the area
  • Take a butterfly walk through the park – Uganda has over 1,000 species.

Experiences

A selection of activities and experiences you could consider including in your holiday to Uganda.

The Ndali Crater Lakes and the Rwenzori Mountains at Sunset, The Rwenzori Mountains, Uganda
Kibale

Kibale Crater Lakes

Explore a number of the spectacular crater lakes in the area.

Suggested lodge

Great White Pelicans, Kazinga Channel, Uganda
Kibale

Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary

Visit the Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary in search of endemic wetland bird species.

Suggested lodge

Beautiful butterfly Blue Pansy, Junonia oenone green leaf, Uganda, Africa
Kibale

Butterfly Walks

Take a butterfly walk through the park – Uganda has over 1000 species.

Suggested lodge

Chimps grooming, Kibale, Uganda
Kibale

Search for Chimpanzees

Stand in awe as a troop of 60 plus chimpanzees scramble through the treetops.

Suggested Holiday Idea

Where to stay

Some of the wonderful places to stay that we frequently recommended.

Ndali Lodge £££££

  • Uganda
  • Safari and Wildlife Lodge

Sitting on a narrow ridge 1,500 metres above sea level, set against the backdrop of the Mountains of the Moon in the heart of Uganda’s Crater Lake region, Ndali is as charming as it is welcoming. Stone cottages with 4 poster beds and claw-foot baths complete the colonial feel of this working farmstead, with pet Labradors taking up residence in the wicker chairs at the front of the rooms.

View Property

Primate Lodge £££££

  • Uganda
  • Safari and Wildlife Lodge

Primate Lodge is situated in the heart of Kibale Forest National Park, a lush tropical rainforest that is home to 13 different species of primates, including the chimpanzee. Consisting of eight unique safari tents in African style, the comfortable rooms are raised on a wooden platform, each with comfortable twin beds and en-suite bathrooms, with spacious private verandas overlooking the forest. The cosy restaurant serves local and international dishes. There is a well-stocked bar and a comfortable lounge, complete with a welcoming fireplace to warm yourself during the chilly evenings and look back on the adventures of the day.

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Need Inspiration?
Browse our Uganda holiday ideas.

Our Uganda experts have created and curated these holiday ideas to get you started. Take the time to search through them and find something to spark ideas for a unique adventure.

Meet our experts

A passion for travel runs right through every one of our experts - meaning they're always ready with first-hand insight about their specialist countries.

Illona Cross

Born in a small South African town, I have always followed my passion for nature and discovery. After studying Nature Conservation in Pretoria, I was one of the first women to complete a very tough cadetship in the Natal Parks Board. It was here where I cut my teeth in African wildlife management.

Talk with our experts
  • 01285 880 980

Chris Johnston

Chris is the Conde Nast Traveller chosen Specialist for Africa.

25 years ago, my first trip to Africa took on a life of its own. I planned for three months, I stayed for two years. Whilst there, I was mistaken for a priest, attacked by sharks and arrested. Yet the countless, clattering journeys opened my eyes to the beauty of the landscapes and the grace of the people. My recent trips are undoubtedly more comfortable, but the welcome is as warm as ever and the best experiences are still those I never see coming.

Talk with our experts
  • 01285 880 980

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