When spending time in Africa, you will be able to come across three different primate groups. They include humans, apes and monkeys. All of us have an excellent eyesight, complex brains, and skilful thumbs. That’s where all the similarities start.
According to recent studies, it has been identified that more than 51 different species of non-human primates are living inside Africa. New primate groups are being discovered along with time. On the other hand, most of them have faced the danger of extinction. The habitat description has contributed a lot towards the above mentioned fact. All the forest living monkeys in Africa are being called as endangered species. The tropical forests in the country are being destroyed at an alarming pace and it has become important to pay special attention towards the negative consequences that may arise in the long run.
Most of the tourists who take part in the African Safaris say that they are not likely to come across the widespread species, such as bush babies, vervet monkeys and baboons during the tours. However, you don’t need to worry about anything because you will be able to get closer to the mountain gorillas, who are extremely similar to the human beings. All you have to do is to take part in a guided primate Uganda safari to get this experience.
When you take part in a typical primate safari within Uganda, you will be provided with the opportunity to come across the below mentioned activities. It is up to you to discuss with your tour company and adjust the itinerary according to the specific requirements. They are flexible with the itinerary and you will be able to get a personalized experience at the end of the day.
- Chimpanzee trekking within the Kibale forest
The Kibale forest has received a lot of attention among people who take part in Ugandan safaris. That’s because they are provided with the chance to get an ultimate chimpanzee experience during the time they spend. Inside the park, it will be possible for you to come across around 12 other primate species as well. They include black and white colobus monkeys, red tailed monkeys, blue monkeys, grey-cheeked mangabeys and olive baboons.
You would love the experience offered, where you will be able to get closer to the primates in their natural habitat. Therefore, chimpanzee trekking within Kibale national park has become an excellent activity available for the tourists to take part in.
- Chimpanzee trekking within the Budongo forest
Budongo forest can be found in the northern region of Uganda. In fact, it is located closer to the capital of Uganda, Kampala. This is a massive forest, which spans across an area of around 800 square kilometres. It is also being considered as the biggest mahogany forest found within Eastern Africa. Inside Budongo, you will be able to discover more than 600 different species of chimpanzees. Out of these chimpanzees, around 600 are habituated.
As a tourist, you will be able to take part in chimpanzee trekking within the Budongo forest. It can be included as a part of your Uganda safari. Trekking in the forest takes place usually in the mornings as well as in the afternoons. If you decide to go on chimpanzee trekking in the morning, you will have to get started with your journey around 7am in the morning. Before you go out, you will be provided with a small briefing by the tour guide. Chimpanzee trekking can be considered as an activity that the tourists will be able to take part in throughout the entire year. But if you want to get the most out of your experience, you are strongly encouraged to visit there in between the months of May to August.
- Gorilla trekking within the Bwindi forest
Uganda is the best country in the world for the tourists to go ahead and get closer to the mountain gorillas. In fact, around 50% of the mountain gorillas that you can find in the world are based in Uganda. Out of the destinations available for you to witness mountain gorillas in Uganda, Bwindi forest is the most prominent place. When you take part in a gorilla trekking tour, you will be able to come across at least a family of gorillas.
In order to take part in gorilla trekking, you will have to obtain a permit. A permit would cost you around $600 during the peak season. But when you go for gorilla trekking in the low season, you will be provided with the opportunity to get your hands on some exciting discounts.
It is possible for you to take part in gorilla trekking throughout the entire year. However, it is better if you can take part in the tour in between December to February or June to September. Then you will be able to get the most out of time that you spend.
- Gorilla trekking within Mgahinga National Park
Mgahinga National Park can be considered as another prominent destination available for the tourists to get started with gorilla trekking. Even though it is a small park, you will be able to discover a habituated gorilla family. Therefore, you will be allowed to go in as small groups and witness this gorilla family during the time you spend.
- Chimpanzee trekking in Kyambura Gorge
Kyambura Gorge can be found in the eastern region of Uganda. In fact, it is located in close proximity to the Queen Elizabeth National Park. If you want to witness primates in the Queen Elizabeth National Park, you must visit Kyambura Gorge. Apart from chimpanzee trekking, you will be able to find many other activities organized in here. They include guided nature walks and birdwatching tours as well.
It is up to you to select the best destinations out of these as per your preferences and then enjoy the time in Uganda.