Road Trip to Uganda

Thinking about a road trip through Uganda? Driving across this beautiful country is an adventure like no other, offering the freedom to explore at your own pace while taking in ever-changing landscapes—from rolling hills and lush countryside to vibrant towns and wildlife-rich national parks. With the right preparation, reliable navigation, and a sense of adventure, self-driving in Uganda is not only possible but incredibly rewarding. Even first-time visitors can confidently take the wheel, discovering hidden gems, connecting with local communities, and experiencing the country’s natural beauty up close in a way that organized tours simply can’t match.

What’s a day of chimpanzee trekking like?

Chimpanzee trekking has a very different rhythm from gorilla trekking because chimpanzees are active, vocal and constantly on the move. They climb trees, call to one another, chase and feed, and can suddenly disappear into the forest before you realise what has happened. A typical trek begins with a briefing at the park headquarters, after which you head into the forest with a guide and a small group. Trackers stay in radio contact so they can locate the chimp families. Once the chimps are found, you usually spend about an hour observing them. They rarely sit still, so you will often be looking up into the trees as they swing from branch to branch. The experience can feel like a game of hide-and-seek, but that sense of discovery is part of what makes the trek enjoyable.

Where to go chimpanzee trekking in Uganda

Chimpanzee trekking in Uganda is centred around Kibale Forest National Park, which offers an excellent likelihood of spotting a family of chimpanzees and runs guided trips in both the morning and afternoon. Permit prices are listed in the national park section of the website, and all primate trekking permits are issued by the Uganda Wildlife Authority through authorised tour operators only, meaning visitors cannot obtain permits directly from the authority’s offices in Kampala. Our team at Roadtrip Africa can assist with arranging trekking permits once a self-drive tour or car rental booking in Uganda has been confirmed, with a small handling fee per permit.

For budget-conscious travellers, alternative chimp viewing locations include Budongo Forest Reserve, Kalinzu Forest, and Kyambura Gorge, all of which provide more affordable opportunities to observe chimpanzees in their natural habitat.

• Budongo Forest Reserve, close to Murchison Falls National Park. Morning treks offer good spotting opportunities, and trips are organised via Uganda Lodges – Budongo Eco Lodge.

• Kalinzu Forest, accessible from the road between Mbarara and Queen Elizabeth National Park. Trekking is possible with a permit and offers a reasonable chance of seeing chimps.

• Bugoma Forest, roughly 4.5 hours from Kampala and near Hoima. Hikes run twice daily from the Mwera Ecotourism site, and visitors should bring rain gear and sturdy footwear.

• Kyambura Gorge, located in Queen Elizabeth National Park. The trek involves a descent into a unique ecosystem; sightings are not guaranteed, but wildlife viewing is often rewarding.

Tips for a Better Gorilla and Chimpanzee Trekking Experience

• Wear sturdy, comfortable hiking shoes with good grip to handle steep and slippery terrain.

• Pick up a walking stick at the start of the trek for added balance and support.

• Bring thin gloves to protect your hands when holding onto branches and pushing through vegetation.

• Choose long-sleeved shirts and long trousers to guard against scratches and insect bites in dense forest.

• Pack a facemask, as it is mandatory to wear one when you are close to the gorillas.

• Carry essentials in your daypack: a raincoat, sunscreen, at least 2 liters of water, and snacks or a packed lunch.

• Capture meaningful close-up photos, such as detailed shots of hands, feet, or facial expressions.

• Take time to observe the gorillas and chimpanzees without your camera—pause, be present, and fully absorb the experience.

• Bring your passport and a copy for each trek, as these are required for registration on the day of tracking.