Chimpanzee Trekking in Kyambura Gorge

Chimpanzee Trekking in Kyambura Gorge, Uganda: A Hidden Jungle Adventure

Embark on an unforgettable chimpanzee trekking experience in Kyambura Gorge, Uganda, with Outback Adventure Safaris. Nestled within Queen Elizabeth National Park, Kyambura Gorge is a lush underground rainforest teeming with life and mystery. This unique destination, often called the “Valley of Apes,” offers one of Uganda’s most exhilarating wildlife encounters: tracking wild chimpanzees in their natural habitat.

Where Is Kyambura Gorge?

Kyambura Gorge lies in the eastern section of Queen Elizabeth National Park. This dramatic, forested chasm is approximately 100 meters deep and stretches about 1 kilometer in length. Surrounded by sun-drenched savannah and distant human settlements, the gorge remains a cool, shaded sanctuary for wildlife thanks to its towering canopy of tropical trees. The Kyambura River meanders through the gorge, providing a year-round water source for the dense forest ecosystem.

Formation and Fascination: How Kyambura Gorge Came to Be

Geological Origins

Kyambura Gorge was formed due to tectonic activity associated with the East African Rift Valley. Secondary faulting created this narrow gorge within the larger valley system. Some scientists also believe the gorge was further carved by erosion from the once-powerful Kyambura River.

The Legend of “Kyambura”

The name “Kyambura” means “I couldn’t find it” in the local dialect, derived from a tragic tale of people and possessions lost to massive floods. When survivors searched in vain, they uttered “Kyambura,” forever tying the gorge to mystery and loss.

Why Trek Chimpanzees in Kyambura Gorge?

Chimpanzee trekking in Kyambura Gorge is a must-do for primate lovers and adventurers. Unlike other parts of Queen Elizabeth National Park, Kyambura is the only area with habituated chimpanzees available for trekking.

The Valley of Apes

This small community of chimpanzees has adapted to isolation after deforestation destroyed the natural corridors linking them to other forests. Trapped in the gorge, they remain resilient and intelligent, making this trek both thrilling and deeply meaningful.

Book your chimpanzee tracking adventure today with Outback Adventure Safaris — and experience nature like never before.

What to Expect on a Chimpanzee Trek in Kyambura Gorge

Trekking Sessions

Chimpanzee trekking is offered twice daily: morning and afternoon. Each session begins with a briefing at the Fig Tree Camp Visitors Center.

• Permit Required: Permits are issued by the Uganda Wildlife Authority through a reputable tour operator and cost $80 for international visitors. Only 8 permits are available per session.
• Minimum Age: Trekking is open to visitors aged 12 years and above.

The Chimpanzee Trekking Experience

Your trek starts with a descent into the gorge, approximately 200 meters deep. Accompanied by expert guides, you’ll follow chimpanzee calls, footprints, or droppings to locate them.

Once found, observe the chimps as they play, groom, feed, and even build nests high in the trees. Often, they descend to ground level, offering unforgettable close encounters and excellent photography opportunities.

Ready for a primate adventure of a lifetime? Enquire now and let us handle your permits and logistics.

Wildlife and Biodiversity in Kyambura Gorge

Primate Species

Aside from chimpanzees, Kyambura Gorge is home to:

• Vervet monkeys
• Red-tailed monkeys
• Olive baboons
• Colobus monkeys

Other Wildlife

Look out for forest creatures like hippos, elephants, and even leopards or hyenas visiting the gorge from the surrounding savannah.

Birdwatching Paradise

Kyambura is a haven for birdwatchers. Some species to spot include:

• African Finfoot
• Martial Eagles
• Shoebill Storks
• African Skimmers
• Bar-tailed Godwits
• Black-headed Bee-eaters

Discover Uganda’s secret birding gem — Join a birding tour through Kyambura Gorge.

Conservation Efforts: Reconnecting the Chimps

The chimpanzees in Kyambura once migrated freely to nearby forests like Kalinzu and Maramagambo. Due to habitat loss, this is no longer possible. To combat this, Volcanoes Safaris and Uganda Wildlife Authority have replanted over 6,000 native trees to recreate a forest corridor.

This initiative aims to restore connectivity and genetic diversity among isolated chimp communities. Your visit helps fund these vital conservation programs.

Support chimpanzee conservation — Book a responsible safari with Outback Adventure Safaris.

Tips for a Successful Trek

• Wear hiking boots with a strong grip
• Carry water and light snacks
• Bring binoculars and a camera
• Pack insect repellent
• Be patient and respectful of wildlife

Fitness is key — trekking requires navigating steep slopes and dense vegetation. But the reward is an up-close encounter with one of our closest living relatives.

Getting to Kyambura Gorge

• By Road: From Kampala, the drive takes about 6 hours via Mbarara or Fort Portal.
• By Air: Fly from Entebbe to Mweya Airstrip (~1 hour), then drive 30 km to Kyambura.

Outback Adventure Safaris offers both private and group transfers. We’ll get you there safely and comfortably.

Skip the hassle — Contact us to plan your trip to Kyambura Gorge today!

Combine Kyambura with Other Experiences

• 3-Day Chimpanzee Trek in Kibale – Uganda’s top chimp tracking location
• Game drives in Queen Elizabeth National Park
• Boat cruise on the Kazinga Channel

Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or in a group, we tailor itineraries to your needs.

Final Thoughts: Is Chimpanzee Trekking in Kyambura Gorge Worth It?

Absolutely. Kyambura Gorge offers a unique, off-the-beaten-path chimpanzee trekking experience filled with natural beauty, rare wildlife, and cultural lore. It’s less crowded than Kibale, more mysterious than most parks, and deeply rewarding.

Don’t just read about it — live it! Book your Kyambura Gorge chimpanzee trek with Outback Adventure Safaris and create memories that will last a lifetime.