This is an adventure where, by private 4X4 and with a local guide, we cross this emerald-green country with its many climate zones to the Kibale Forest in western Uganda. The pristine mountain rainforest is so lush and green, the temperatures cool, and the air so fresh. Here you are treated to diverse birdlife with numerous sightings of not least the great blue turaco, as well as primates such as red-tailed monkeys, red colobus monkeys, and grey-cheeked mangabeys. You stay in the heart of the rainforest at a beautiful eco-lodge amidst the wild & scenic surroundings, gazing out over the treetops and waking up to the rainforest’s symphony of sounds. Kibale is perfect as a first stop en route further south toward Queen Elizabeth Park and the gorillas in Bwindi Forest.
This program is a source of inspiration — each trip is unique and tailored to you.
Many dream of seeing chimpanzees in the wild. Kibale National Park in Uganda is widely regarded as the “primate capital of the world” and boasts the highest density and diversity of primates in Africa. Did you know that we share 95–98% of our DNA with them, that wild chimpanzees only live in Africa, that they are omnivorous, and that they are one of the few animals known to use tools? It is fascinating to encounter these intelligent beings on foot …
Start early from Kampala on a road trip in a 4X4 with a professional local guide; the journey to Kibale passes through lush farming landscapes of coffee, tea, fruits, and vegetables.
Kibale Forest is also home to 370 different bird species – the most stunning is considered to be the Great Blue Turaco, while Uganda’s national bird is the Crested Crane.
Ecolyx handpicks its eco-lodges carefully, each with a distinctive style and atmosphere just the way we like them. Falling asleep and waking up surrounded by wilderness and beauty is always deeply appreciated! As is enjoying delicious food & drinks, not least the local beer, Nile Special.
This is a unique rainforest experience, and on clear days you enjoy fantastic views of the snow-capped Rwenzori Mountains.
This is an active and vibrant experience, as the chimpanzees are vocal, active, and spontaneous. One moment they sit quietly contemplating, the next they take off through the undergrowth and you must follow quickly behind. The terrain is not particularly steep, but it can be tangled, so you need to watch where you step. You trek in a small group of no more than 8 people, accompanied by a guide and rangers. Before setting off, you will receive a thorough briefing on do’s and don’ts. The entire experience lasts about 3-4 hours.
You can also opt for a 2-3 hour walk in the Bigodi Swamp, located on the edge of Kibale Forest and serving as an essential wildlife corridor. Together with a local guide, you can spot the Great Blue Turaco, Papyrus Gonolek, kingfishers, and many more – home to over 200 different bird species. You might also spot red-tailed monkeys, red colobus monkeys, grey-cheeked mangabeys, and guenons.
The Bigodi Swamp is one of several community-run initiatives operated by the local population and the Kibale Association for Rural and Environmental Development (KAFRED). Tour proceeds support local schools, women’s groups, and waste management in the surrounding community.
Meet Sophie and trace the coffee bean’s journey from crop to cup, including picking, drying, and roasting over an open fire. These lush mountain highlands primarily grow the earthy Robusta bean. Uganda is one of Africa’s largest coffee producers.
You leave these lush regions behind and head toward the southern sector of Queen Elizabeth National Park – Ishasha, home to many large mammals such as buffalo, elephant, and not least the famous tree-climbing lions.
Enjoy a few days of classic safari in the Ishasha Wilderness paired with a boat safari along the Kazinga Channel, Lake Edward, before continuing further south toward Bwindi Forest in southwestern Uganda.
Eco-rating: 3.0
Airport: Kigali International Airport (KGL)
Not included in the tour price: International flights, drinks and meals not specified, optional activities, tips, visa, travel insurance, etc.
Good to know about Uganda: Uganda is located on the equator, along the shores of Lake Victoria, and is one of the most fertile countries in Africa. The country is popularly known as the “Pearl of Africa.” Uganda has a varied but generally equatorial climate. Uganda derives its name from the Buganda kingdom,
which encompasses a large part of the southern part of the country, including the capital Kampala. The population is known for being friendly and hospitable.
Travel etiquette: Always ask before taking photos. Bring small denomination bills in local currency to purchase local crafts in the villages. Shake hands with those you meet – a local courtesy code.
Mobile network and email: The mobile network works well.
Time zone: GMT + 2
Vaccinations: Read more about required vaccinations here.
Packing: It is important to have comfortable hiking boots, long pants for protection in dense brush and against stinging nettles, sweets/snacks, as well as sufficient water since it gets hot and humid in the rainforest during the day. Bring a daypack to carry your gear. Rain gear is wise, at least 2 liters of water, and high-SPF sunscreen!
Local currency: Ugandan shilling
Weather: Kampala
Water: Clean drinking water is available at the camp.
Safety: Your safety is our priority. Listen carefully to the guide’s instructions and advice.
More information at: Travel advice
Entry requirements: A valid passport is required for all destinations outside the Nordic region. The passport must be valid for 6 months after departure. If a visa is required for Scandinavian citizens, this will be stated in the information sent to the traveler after booking. Travelers are solely responsible for their visa application. You apply for a visa online, which costs 50 USD per person. Learn more here: Visa
This product meets our requirements for Ecorating, a product that is good for humans and the environment.
By visiting Kibale National Park and paying park entry fees and chimpanzee tracking permits, you support one of the largest populations of wild chimpanzees in Uganda, estimated at over 1,500 individuals distributed across at least 12 distinct communities. Four of these communities have been habituated for tourism and research, with the Kanyantale chimpanzee community being the primary one for visitor tracking. This group has been open to tourists daily since 1993.
When staying at Turaco Treetops, you support the Chris Roberts Forest Foundation. Together with the lodge, it has established a buffer zone that protects the habitat of chimpanzees, elephants, and birds while demonstrating a productive agroforestry model for local farmers. The foundation is named in memory of one of Turaco Treetops’ co-founders, Chris Roberts, who had an immense and infectious passion for wildlife and conservation. In addition to in-kind support, Turaco Treetops donates 2 USD per overnight stay and 50% of its proceeds from nature walks to the foundation.
The lodge operates in accordance with Fair Trade Tourism criteria, focusing on the environmental, socio-cultural, and economic impacts of its operations. Drinking water is served in glass bottles – no plastic! Electricity is solar-powered, waste management is handled responsibly, the lodge engages actively with the local community, and it employs a team of local staff.
