5 Days Kibale Chimpanzee & Bigodi Swamp Safari Tour 2026/2027/2028
A 5 Days Kibale Chimpanzee & Bigodi Swamp Safari Tour combines chimpanzee trekking in Kibale Forest with guided primate walks, birdwatching, and cultural encounters in Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary. Ideal for travellers craving Uganda’s best primate experience and nature immersion in just five days.
This 5 Days Kibale Chimpanzee & Bigodi Swamp Safari Tour 2026/2027/2028 is the ultimate Uganda primate adventure designed for travellers passionate about wildlife, nature conservation, and eco-tourism. Kibale Forest National Park, often called the Primate Capital of the World, is home to over 13 primate species including chimpanzees, red colobus monkeys, L’Hoest’s monkeys, and olive baboons. This safari blends immersive chimpanzee trekking experiences with a guided nature walk through the Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, one of Uganda’s most biodiverse swamps known for birdwatching and community conservation efforts.
This tour offers travellers intimate encounters with chimpanzees, scenic crater lakes, nature trails, and rich cultural moments with local communities — a combination rarely found in other Uganda safari packages. For those planning extended holidays, this package can be combined with Bwindi gorilla trekking tours, Queen Elizabeth wildlife safaris, or Murchison Falls adventures. Learn more about Kibale Forest via the Uganda Wildlife Authority website.
With knowledgeable local guides, eco-friendly practices, and transparent booking policies, this Uganda safari guarantees sustainability, authentic interactions, and personalised attention — making it ideal for photographers, primate enthusiasts, bird watchers, and nature lovers alike.
DAY-BY-DAY ITINERARY
DAY 1: Arrival in Entebbe – Transfer to Kibale Forest National Park
Arrive at Entebbe International Airport, meet your safari guide, and begin the scenic journey to Kibale National Park. Enjoy views of Uganda’s lush countryside, tea plantations, and crater lakes en route. Check in at your lodge near Kibale Forest and enjoy a relaxed evening surrounded by bird calls and forest breezes. Dinner and overnight at Kibale.
DAY 2: Chimpanzee Trekking in Kibale Forest – Nature Walk
After breakfast, proceed to the park headquarters for a chimpanzee tracking briefing. With an experienced ranger, trek through the dense rainforest in search of habituated chimpanzee families. Once located, observe their behaviour — grooming, feeding, and playing in the canopy. Afternoon optional nature walk reveals butterflies, monkeys, and rare bird species. Dinner and overnight at the lodge.
DAY 3: Bigodi Swamp Walk – Birding & Primate Encounters
Explore the Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, renowned for its conservation success and vibrant birdlife. Walk along boardwalk trails guided by community experts. Spot red-tailed monkeys, black-and-white colobus, mangabeys, and over 200 bird species, including the Great Blue Turaco. Enjoy cultural interactions with local residents before returning to your lodge for dinner and relaxation.
DAY 4: Crater Lakes Tour & Cultural Visit (
Spend the day exploring crater lakes formed from ancient volcanic activity, offering breathtaking landscapes and photography spots. Visit local communities, learn about traditional lifestyles, and discover the importance of wetlands and forests in African culture. Return to your lodge for dinner and overnight.
DAY 5: Return to Kampala / Entebbe – Departure
After breakfast, journey back to Kampala or Entebbe, enjoy roadside markets, souvenir shops, and Equator photo stops. Transfer to the airport for your departure flight. End of the safari.
PRICE COMPARISON TABLE
| Category | Accommodation | Key Inclusions | Price Per Person |
|---|---|---|---|
| Budget | Standard lodge | Chimp trekking permit + Bigodi tour + meals | From USD 1380 |
| Mid-Range | Safari lodge | Professional guide + park fees + cultural visit | From USD 1890 |
| Luxury | Premium lodge | Exclusive activities + crater lake tour | From USD 3290 |
WHAT MAKES THIS SAFARI UNIQUE
✔ Kibale Forest — world’s highest primate concentration
✔ Bigodi community conservation success story
✔ Birdwatching paradise with eco-tourism focus
✔ Supports local livelihoods and forest protection
FAQ
1. Where is Kibale Forest National Park located?
Kibale Forest National Park is located in western Uganda, near Fort Portal. It is globally recognised as the Primate Capital of the World for hosting the highest density of chimpanzees and 13 other primate species.
2. How difficult is chimpanzee trekking in Kibale?
Chimp trekking ranges from easy to moderate depending on chimp movement. Trails are well-maintained, and visitors need comfortable shoes, drinking water, and moderate fitness levels.
3. What wildlife can I see during this safari?
Besides chimpanzees, expect red colobus monkeys, olive baboons, Vervet monkeys, mangabeys, butterflies, and over 200 bird species, including the Great Blue Turaco.
4. What is special about Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary?
Bigodi is a community-led conservation area renowned for primate encounters, birdwatching, and eco-tourism initiatives that support local livelihoods.
5. Is this safari suitable for families?
Yes. Families can enjoy nature walks, cultural interactions, and wildlife viewing, although children under 15 years cannot participate in chimp trekking.
6. Can this safari be extended?
Yes. It can be upgraded with gorilla trekking in Bwindi, wildlife safaris in Queen Elizabeth National Park, or Murchison Falls experiences.
TRAVELLER REVIEWS
★★★★★ — Emma Rodriguez, USA
“The chimp trek was unforgettable! We saw chimps grooming each other right above us. Bigodi Swamp was a surprise highlight.”
★★★★★ — Samuel Kamau, Kenya
“A perfect blend of nature and culture. Our guide was knowledgeable and the bird sightings were incredible.”
★★★★★ — Anne Müller, Germany
“Loved how eco-friendly this tour was. Bigodi community project was inspiring. Highly recommended!”
★★★★★ — Teresa Gomes, Brazil
“I thought gorillas were the top primates until I met chimps! Such intelligent creatures. Amazing experience.”
★★★★★ — Lucas Grant, UK
“Crater lakes and chimp encounters made this trip a photographer’s dream. Excellent organisation!”
★★★★★ — Fatima Noor, UAE
“Our lodge in Kibale was stunning! Waking up to forest sounds was magical. Worth every cent.”
READY TO BOOK YOUR PRIMATE ADVENTURE?
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