If you’re searching for the best places to see chimpanzees in Africa, you are probably imagining something out of a BBC documentary: mist curling through the jungle, a chimp swinging through the canopy, and you, sweaty but serene, watching it all unfold with wide-eyed wonder.

I’ve personally tracked chimpanzees through the steamy forests of Uganda and the wild heart of Tiwai Island in Sierra Leone. I’ve floated past them on the Gambia River and learned about the conservation efforts at Tacugama. I’ve also stood in awe as one lone chimp crossed my path and winked at me (or so I like to tell myself!).

This article isn’t just a roundup of the best chimpanzee destinations in Africa. It’s your complete guide to doing it right. Ethically. Consciously. And with a decent chance of walking away covered in mud and full of perspective.

Whether you’re planning a once-in-a-lifetime trip or adding some primate magic to your next safari, I’ve got you covered—with stories, tips, hidden gems, and operators I trust to do it properly. You’ll find everything from deep jungle treks to river safaris to sanctuaries doing incredible work. And I’ll tell you what no one else will: the good, the bad, and the gloriously awkward.

So grab your boots, leave your expectations behind, and let’s explore the best places to see chimpanzees in Africa—one hoot, holler, and heartfelt stare at a time.

Disclaimer: This post may include affiliate links. If you click on the link and make a purchase, I will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Affiliate links help cover the cost of running my website so that I can continue inspiring my readers to explore the world.

Ethical Chimp Viewing: The Do’s, The Don’ts, and the Day I Dragged My Feet in Protest

Before we dive into where to see chimpanzees, let’s talk about how to see them. Because not all wildlife experiences are created equal, and the sad truth is, some so-called “eco tours” are more about performance than protection.

I learned this the hard way.

It was my long-awaited chimp trek in Uganda’s Kibale Forest. The day began with a briefing that ticked all the right boxes: No chasing. No loud noises. Always wear your mask. Respect the animals. Excellent, I thought—these are my people.

And then we left the building.

What followed felt less like a respectful forest walk and more like a race to the front row of a Beyoncé concert. Tourists stormed ahead, cameras flashing, masks nowhere to be seen. Even the guide, who had just delivered that beautiful speech, was in full pursuit mode.

I stopped in my tracks. I was hot, disheartened, and starting to feel like the only one who remembered we were visitors in someone else’s home. So, like a petulant child, I dragged my feet. I refused to join the chase. And you know what happened?

A young female chimp crossed my path. Just me and her. She paused, made eye contact, and I swear she thanked me with her eyes. Maybe even a wink. That quiet, fleeting moment was more powerful than any wildlife photo ever could be.

Eventually, the others calmed down, the chimps settled, and we did have a lovely time. But I’ll never forget how uncomfortable it felt to start off that way—or how important it is to do better.

So, if you’re heading off in search of chimps, here’s how to make sure your experience is kind, respectful, and truly wild:

DO:

• Keep a respectful distance – At least 8 metres. Chimps share 98.7% of our DNA and are vulnerable to human disease.
• Wear your mask – Even post-pandemic. One human virus could devastate an entire troop.
• Stay quiet and calm – This isn’t a zoo. Loud noises stress the chimps and ruin the moment for everyone else. In fact, you should avoid loud noises in zoos too!
• Observe rather than chase – Let the guides do the tracking. You do the appreciating.
• Support the right people – Book with companies that genuinely support conservation and community, not just Instagram content.

DON’T:

• Rush or surround the animals – You’re not David Attenborough. (And he’d never do that anyway.)
• Use flash photography – It’s blinding and intrusive.
• Touch or feed the chimps – Even if your guide says “it’s fine.” It’s not.
• Forget you’re the guest – You’re walking through someone’s living room. Act accordingly.
• Expect perfection – Wildlife doesn’t show up on cue. The magic is in the maybe.

Ethical travel doesn’t just protect the chimps—it changes you. Because the best moments often aren’t the ones you chase. They’re the ones that found you when you slowed down and simply paid attention.

Where to See Chimpanzees in Africa

So, you’ve got your boots ready, your camera charged, and your heart set on locking eyes with one of our closest relatives. But now comes the big question: where should you actually go to see chimpanzees in Africa?

The good news? There are some truly incredible options. The bad news? They’re not all created equal. Some destinations offer deeply wild experiences in remote corners of the jungle. Others are more polished, perfect for families or first-timers. And then there are sanctuaries doing the quiet, vital work of rehabilitation and education.

In this section, I’ll walk you through the best places to see chimpanzees in Africa—from the well-known (and occasionally chaotic) Kibale Forest, to the soulful stillness of Tiwai Island, to riverboat sightings in The Gambia and Goodall’s legendary Gombe Stream. Some I’ve experienced firsthand. Others are on my very ambitious list. All are worth considering—depending on your travel style, fitness level, budget, and ethical priorities.

Let’s start with the famous one…

Kibale Forest, Uganda – The “Gold Standard” With Caveats

Kibale Forest is often hailed as the best place to see chimpanzees in Africa, and statistically, it holds up. It’s home to over 1,500 chimps, habituated troops are well studied, and the chance of a successful sighting is above 90%. Sounds like a no-brainer, right?

Well… mostly.

If you’ve already read the Ethical Chimp Viewing section (and if you haven’t, you should), you’ll know my first encounter here was—let’s call it—chaotic. The kind of trip where the briefing promises mindfulness, and the reality delivers a maskless stampede through the jungle.

That said, not all experiences in Kibale are like that. I’ve spoken to dozens of travellers who found it peaceful, well-managed, and incredibly moving. I just happened to draw the short straw with a guide and group who forgot the meaning of “respectful distance.”

Still, even with all that, I had a beautiful encounter—and that speaks volumes about just how special this forest is.

Why People Flock to Kibale

• It’s chimp central—the highest density of chimpanzees in East Africa.
• The terrain, while occasionally muddy, is accessible and relatively easy to navigate.
• Most treks last 2–4 hours, but sightings are so frequent you’ll rarely leave disappointed.
• If you’re after a one-stop primate experience (there are 13 species here!), this is the place.

Trek Options & Permits

• Standard Trek: ~$200 USD, includes one hour with the chimps after you find them.
• Habituation Experience: ~$250–300 USD, gives you up to four hours with less habituated troops. More time, more nuance, more unpredictable—but fascinating.

Permits are limited and often sell out in high season, so book early—especially if you’re pairing it with gorilla trekking in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest.

Where to Stay

Whether you want jungle luxury or rustic charm, there’s something for every budget:

• Chimpundu Lodge – For travellers who like their primate encounters followed by a spa treatment
• Papaya Lake Lodge – This is where we stayed and it was perfect. Stylish and surrounded by nature. A home away from home. I highly recommend booking the community walk!
• Isunga Lodge – Mid-range with a personal touch and stunning views

All of these can be booked via Booking.com for flexibility and peace of mind.

Who It’s Best For

• First-time travellers to East Africa
• Families with teens (minimum trekking age is typically 15)
• Those who want high sighting success with relatively easy logistics

Insider Tip

Ask your safari operator in advance about their guides’ style. I recommend Dennis from Marvel Safaris. He doesn’t have a website yet but you can reach him on WhatsApp on +256701308460. He cares about the details, supports local communities, and understands that great wildlife experiences aren’t just about ticking boxes. I met Dennis during my gorilla trek right after he had graduated from guide school. We have remained friends ever since, and it has been a real pleasure to watch him become one of the best guides in the business.

Tiwai Island, Sierra Leone – Jungle Solitude and the Best Kind of Silence

If your idea of a good time includes jungle hikes, canoe crossings, and the occasional soggy mishap, then welcome to Tiwai.

Tiwai Island isn’t for everyone, and that’s exactly what makes it special. No five-star lodges, no matching safari outfits, no WiFi, no data. Just you, a netted tent, the hum of cicadas, and the occasional rustle of something furry watching you back.

I first visited after running the Sierra Leone Marathon, and I was ready for a little rest and a lot of nature. What I got was a village welcome fit for royalty (and painfully awkward for someone who just wanted a quiet shower), three chimp hikes with the incredible local guide Toto, and a canoe ride that very nearly turned into a swim.

What the Experience is Like

To reach Tiwai, it’s around a 4-hour drive from Freetown on decent roads, you then turn onto a bumpy red dirt road, and the feeling that you are driving to the end of the world. You’ll pass colourful women carrying loads on their heads, and waving kids and goats (the kids wave, not the goats). The road ends in a tiny village, where you’ll cross a river by dugout canoe and land on a jungle-covered island that feels like a world apart.

The accommodation? A rustic eco-camp where the main building has solar power and the rest is you, your tent, and the sounds of the forest. No glass between you and the wild. Just netting, and a very real reminder that you’re not in the Cotswolds anymore.

I went on three hikes in search of chimps, and we spotted them every time (but always high in the canopy). We also spotted red colobus monkeys, black-and-white colobus monkeys, Diana monkeys… it felt like nature’s greatest hits were playing on shuffle. One afternoon we tried to find pygmy hippos in a dugout canoe, only to get stuck in the rapids as water rushed in. We didn’t see a single hippo, but I left with soggy shoes and one of the best laughs of the trip.

Why Tiwai is Worth the Journey

• It’s a true off-the-beaten-path experience—perfect for adventurers, nature lovers, and anyone burnt out on mass tourism.
• Chimps here are truly wild, and sightings feel earned, not staged
• Your visit directly supports local conservation and community efforts
• It’s one of the few places where you’ll feel like you’re invited into their world, not the other way around

Logistics & Practical Tips

• How to get there: 6 hours from Freetown, including a river crossing
• Best time to visit: November to March (dry season)
• Accommodation: Tiwai Island Wildlife Sanctuary eco-camp (book directly)
• What to pack: Light, breathable clothes, strong insect repellent (skip DEET though), waterproof shoes (trust me), and a decent flashlight.

I would recommend contacting Dori from Salone Hidden Gems to arrange it for you.

Ethical Bonus Points

Tiwai is supported by Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary, which does brilliant work both with rescued chimps and wild populations across Sierra Leone. Visiting both sites on one trip gives you a fuller understanding of the challenges and hope surrounding chimpanzee conservation.

Ready to swap resort buffets for river crossings? Tiwai might not be the most famous chimp destination, but it just might be the most rewarding.

Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary, Sierra Leone – Where Chimps Go to School (and Humans Get Schooled Too)

Not all of the best places to see chimpanzees in Africa are deep in the jungle. Some are found just a short drive from a capital city, tucked into the hills, quietly changing the future of conservation, one rescued chimp at a time.

Welcome to Tacugama: part sanctuary, part education centre. Located just outside Freetown, this is where orphaned chimps come to heal, grow, and, eventually, return to something like the wild. It’s also where humans come to have their eyes opened to what real conservation looks like.

I’ve been three times. And every visit leaves me both heartbroken and hopeful.

What Makes Tacugama So Special

The sanctuary is home to around 100 chimpanzees, most rescued from the illegal pet trade or bushmeat industry. But this isn’t a sad, cage-filled zoo. It’s more like a very wild, very noisy boarding school with four distinct stages:

• Kindergarten – Where traumatised baby chimps (often just months old) are nursed back to health
• Primary – A playful, supervised space with ropes, tyres, and jungle gyms to learn chimp “life skills”
• Secondary – A more natural environment, with less human contact and more independence
• University – The final and most “wild” stage, where chimps live in large forest enclosures and only come in at night (if at all)

The ultimate goal? A life that’s as close to wild as safety allows. Sadly, right now, there is too much deforestation happening in Sierra Leone for it to be safe to release them into the wild.

A Shoutout to Alfred (Because Some People Just Need to Be Mentioned)

If you’re lucky enough to be shown around by Alfred, don’t let his quiet confidence fool you. He’s one of the most inspiring young conservationists I’ve met—smart, grounded, and absolutely driven to make a difference. Spend half an hour with him, and you’ll walk away not only understanding chimps better, but understanding your role in their story too.

What to Expect as a Visitor

• Guided tours run daily and are led by passionate, knowledgeable staff
• You’ll learn about each chimp’s backstory (yes, prepare to cry) and how the sanctuary works
• The enclosures are designed to minimise human interaction, so you won’t get super close—but that’s the point
• There’s a great on-site ecolodge if you want to stay overnight and wake up to the sounds of the forest

How to Make the Most of Your Visit

• Book a stay at the Tacugama ecolodge for an immersive experience, or alternatively choose Stafford Lodge. That’s where I always stay, and honestly, it feels like home.
• Pair your visit with a trip to Tiwai Island or chill days in Freetown.
• Bring a bit of extra cash for the small gift shop—it goes straight back into conservation.
• Consider “adopting” a chimp (virtually, not literally)—it’s a meaningful way to support the work long after your trip.

More Than a Sanctuary

Tacugama’s impact goes far beyond its fences. They run education programs in rural communities, support law enforcement against wildlife trafficking, and are even working on a nationwide rewilding strategy for Sierra Leone’s chimps.

In other words, your entry fee is doing a lot more than funding bananas.

If you care about animals, conservation, or frankly just being a decent human on this planet, Tacugama deserves a spot on your itinerary. It’s not the wildest chimp experience, but it might just be the most important one.

Where To Stay In Freetown

I only have one recommendation because I wouldn’t stay anywhere else! Stafford Lodge! I’ve been back 4 times and it feels like visiting family.

Mahale Mountains, Tanzania – Chimps, Crystal Waters, and Complete Wilderness

If you’re after the best places to see chimpanzees in Africa and “off the beaten path” doesn’t scare you but excites you, then Mahale Mountains National Park should be at the very top of your list. Think: wild terrain, white-sand beaches, and chimpanzees hooting from the treetops as you sip coffee by one of the clearest lakes in the world.

No, really. This isn’t a dream—it’s Mahale.

Located on the eastern shore of Lake Tanganyika, Mahale is about as far as you can get from Tanzania’s usual safari circuit, both geographically and metaphorically. You won’t find safari trucks or large tour groups here. What you will find are misty mountains, dense rainforest, and one of the most immersive chimpanzee tracking experiences anywhere in Africa.

What to Expect in Mahale

First, the journey. This isn’t a quick drive from Arusha. You’ll need to fly into western Tanzania and then take a boat across the lake to your lodge or camp. It’s a trek—but one that pays off in spades.

Once there, you’ll spend your days hiking forest trails in search of a habituated troop of chimps that roam the slopes of the Mahale Mountains. The hikes vary in length and intensity, depending on where the chimps are that day (they didn’t get the memo about your Fitbit goals), but the payoff is spectacular.

When you do find them—and chances are high that you will—you’ll spend an hour watching them in their natural habitat: grooming, climbing, napping, parenting, or occasionally having the kind of family argument that feels uncomfortably familiar.

Why Mahale is So Special

• It’s remote, wild, and absolutely stunning.
• Picture: dense jungle meets tropical lake. It’s like the Congo had a baby with the Maldives.
• Chimpanzees here are truly wild.
• The trekking isn’t staged or rushed—you move quietly, respectfully, and only when the chimps are comfortable.
• It’s not just about the chimps.
• Lake Tanganyika is perfect for swimming, kayaking, and simply existing in a way that makes time feel irrelevant.
• It forces you to slow down.
• No roads. No phone signal. Just nature and the people you’re with (choose wisely).

Logistics & Need-to-Knows

• Getting there: You can either fly to Kigoma and then get a boat transfer to the park (it takes all day) or you can charter a small plane to reach the closer airstrip, but this costs approximately $3,000 per person!
• Best time to visit: July to October (dry season = better trekking)
• Permits: Included in your lodge rate, but check with your operator
• Fitness level: Moderate to high—you may be hiking for several hours
• What to pack: Lightweight long trousers, proper hiking shoes, dry bags (the lake likes to splash)

Where to Stay

There are only a handful of places in Mahale, which keeps it exclusive (read: not cheap—but worth every penny):

• Greystoke Mahale – If Robinson Crusoe had impeccable taste
• Mbali Mbali Mahale Lodge – Remote luxury with heart

Who It’s Best For

• Honeymooners or couples looking for a romantic but wild adventure
• Experienced travellers who want something beyond the Big Five
• Wildlife lovers who want to connect, not just photograph
• Anyone desperate to unplug and immerse themselves in nature

Travel With:

• Migration Tanzania Safaris – My trusted partner in Tanzania, who knows how to get you there and how to do it ethically. They’ll build your whole trip around Mahale or combine it with the Epic 10-Day Tanzania Safari if you want to do both.

Mahale is not for the faint-hearted. It’s for the curious, the bold, and the traveller who’s willing to go further for something extraordinary. And trust me: when you hear that first wild chimp call echo through the forest, you’ll know it was worth every single bump in the road.

Gombe Stream, Tanzania – Walk in Jane Goodall’s Footsteps

If Mahale is the wilderness romance, Gombe Stream is the soulful classic. This is where chimpanzee research as we know it began—where a 26-year-old Jane Goodall first entered the forest with a notebook, a pair of binoculars, and an unshakable sense of curiosity. And the rest, as they say, is primate history.

Today, Gombe remains one of the best places to see chimpanzees in Africa for travellers who want something meaningful, intimate, and steeped in legacy. The troop here is the most studied in the world, and walking the same forest paths where Jane once sat with David Greybeard is… something else.

It’s not flashy. It’s not easy to get to. But it is special.

Why Choose Gombe Over Mahale?

While Mahale wins on remoteness and epic scenery, Gombe offers an experience that’s quieter, more historic, and logistically just a little more forgiving.

• It’s smaller (only 52 square kilometres) but still wild and beautiful
• The chimps are very habituated, meaning you’ll likely get excellent sightings
• And it’s ideal for those who grew up fascinated by Jane Goodall and want to feel that connection for themselves

What to Expect on a Trek

You’ll still need to work for your chimp sightings—there’s climbing involved and the forest can be steep—but the distances are shorter than in Mahale. Once you find the troop, you’ll spend an hour watching their daily drama unfold: grooming, squabbling, tree acrobatics, the occasional “I’m clearly the boss here” display.

And yes, sometimes they just nap. Which, to be fair, is deeply relatable.

Getting There

Gombe is more accessible than Mahale but still remote enough to weed out the casual tourists (we like that, don’t we?):

• Fly to Kigoma (usually via Dar es Salaam or Arusha)
• Take a boat along Lake Tanganyika to the park (about 1–2 hours, depending on the vessel)
• Accommodations are basic but comfortable—more on that below

Where to Stay

• Mbali Mbali Gombe Lodge – The main accommodation option, set right on the lakefront. Simple but serene.
• Budget guesthouses in Kigoma if you want to day-trip in (but staying inside the park is so much better). Booking.com is the best place to explore cheap stays.

Your best bet is booking through a specialist like Migration Tanzania Safaris, who can handle all logistics and permits.

Best Time to Visit

• July to October – Dry season = better visibility, easier hikes
• Wet season (Nov–May) is lush and beautiful, but paths can be muddy and sightings less reliable

Who It’s Best For

• Goodall superfans
• Wildlife nerds (no judgment—I am one)
• Travellers who value emotional depth and quiet connection
• Those combining it with Mahale or western Tanzania’s other hidden gems

Top Tip:

If you go with Migration Tanzania Safaris, they can build a full itinerary around Gombe, combining it with cultural visits, lake adventures, or even gorilla trekking in neighbouring countries if you’re going all in.

Gombe doesn’t shout. It doesn’t dazzle. But it whispers stories you’ll carry with you long after the trek ends. If you want your chimp experience with a side of soul, this is the one.

Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary, Kenya – Chimps, Conservation, and Safari All in One

If you want to see chimpanzees in Eastern Africa but don’t fancy a four-hour hike in humid jungle or an eight-hour boat ride across a remote lake, then Sweetwaters might just be your sweet spot.

Located within the Ol Pejeta Conservancy in central Kenya, Sweetwaters is the only place in the country where you can see chimpanzees—and it offers a unique blend of safari glam, conservation grit, and easy logistics. It’s not a wild chimp trekking experience, but it’s meaningful in its own way. And for travellers short on time (or patience), it’s a solid and ethical option.

What Is Sweetwaters, Exactly?

Sweetwaters Chimpanzee Sanctuary was established in 1993 through a partnership with the Jane Goodall Institute. It provides lifelong care to orphaned and abused chimpanzees rescued from horrific situations across Central and West Africa, most of whom would not survive in the wild.

These are chimps who have been trafficked, mistreated, or forced to perform. Here, they get a second chance at life in large, natural enclosures surrounded by the open plains of Ol Pejeta.

Is it the same as seeing wild chimps in the jungle? No. But it is an opportunity to support rescue and rehabilitation while seeing these incredible animals up close in a space that prioritises their well-being.

Why It Works for Certain Travellers

• It’s ideal for families or first-time safari-goers
• Accessibility is easy – a short drive from Nanyuki or even Nairobi
• You can combine it with a Big Five safari – Ol Pejeta is teeming with wildlife (including the last two northern white rhinos on Earth)
• It sparks big conversations – about rescue, trauma, healing, and the human impact on wildlife

What to Expect

• Entry to the chimp sanctuary is included in most Ol Pejeta conservancy passes
• You’ll explore via raised boardwalks with views of the chimps relaxing, playing, grooming and, occasionally, causing complete chaos (as they should)
• Informative panels and passionate staff give you real insight into each individual chimp’s story

Where to Stay

Ol Pejeta has accommodation for every budget:

• Sweetwaters Serena Camp – A gorgeous tented camp with chimp views and safari drives on your doorstep
• Ol Pejeta Bush Camp by Asilia – More exclusive, with a strong conservation ethos
• Pelican House – A self-catering option that’s great for groups

Best Time to Visit

Kenya’s dry seasons—June to October and January to February—are ideal for both chimp viewing and safari drives. But since Sweetwaters isn’t dependent on seasonal movement, you can visit year-round.

Travel With:

• Dream Voyage Safari – My trusted partner in Kenya. Whether you want a quick chimp stop or a full 10-Day Safari Itinerary in Kenya, they’ll sort it with care, knowledge, and a deep respect for both animals and people.

Sweetwaters isn’t about chasing chimps through the jungle. It’s about dignity, healing, and doing the right thing for animals who’ve survived the worst of humanity—and are still willing to play, trust, and live. And honestly? That might be the most powerful thing of all.

The Gambia River – Chimps by Boat and the Best Wildlife Photo I’ve Ever Taken

Of all the best places to see chimpanzees in Africa, this one might just be the most surprising. Because in The Gambia, you don’t trek through jungle or tiptoe across vines—you hop on a boat, cruise through the mangroves, and watch chimpanzees from the water.

And let me tell you: I took my favourite wildlife photo of all time here.

Located on Baboon Islands in the River Gambia National Park, this experience is visually stunning. The chimps roam freely on five forested islands in the middle of the river—lush, peaceful, and seemingly untouched. They swing from the trees, hoot to each other, and (if you’re lucky) strike a perfect pose just as your camera’s shutter clicks.

But before you start packing your binoculars and your Jane Goodall daydreams, let me offer a little context…

Are the Chimps Wild? Well, Kind Of.

The chimps in River Gambia National Park were reintroduced here by the Chimpanzee Rehabilitation Project. Most were rescued from captivity, and now the islands serve as their large, natural enclosures. But they are still monitored, and yes—still fed.

So while they’re not performing or posing, and your encounter is from a respectful distance, it’s not a fully wild experience either.

And that’s okay—as long as you know what you’re signing up for.

This is an incredible initiative that has been running since the 1970s, and it’s had an enormous impact on conservation in the region. It’s also one of the only ways many travellers, especially families or those with limited mobility, can witness chimpanzees behaving naturally, without a physically demanding trek.

What the Experience is Like

• You’ll board a boat and glide along the river at a calm, steady pace
• A local guide will point out chimps, birds, and other wildlife as you go
• You won’t land on the islands—the chimps are protected from direct human contact—but you’ll have excellent views
• The tour usually lasts 1.5 to 2 hours, with morning and afternoon departures depending on water levels and light

What to Know Before You Go

• The chimps are fed daily to encourage rewilding behaviour and survival, but this isn’t an artificial performance.
• It’s a great option if you want a low-impact, accessible chimp encounter
• You can pair it with other cultural or river-based activities in The Gambia and Senegal

Best Time to Visit

• November to March – Dry season means calmer waters and clearer skies
• Avoid the rainy season if you can. The river can flood and visibility decreases

Where to Stay

There aren’t that many options, but I stayed at Kairoh Garden in Kuntaur and I loved the vibe. The rooms are comfortable but a little basic, however the staff are lovely, the restaurant serves really delicious chicken yassa (chicken, rice and a delicious caramelised onion sauce!). It is also right by the river so you can enjoy beautiful pink sunsets.

Travel With:

• Pape – Based in Senegal, Pape offers ethical, cross-border trips into The Gambia. He’s kind, reliable, and passionate about showing the beauty of the region beyond the tourist trail. (Pape’s WhatsApp is +221778813752)

Was it the wildest chimpanzee experience I’ve ever had? No.

But was it beautiful, peaceful, and surprisingly powerful? Absolutely.

Sometimes, you don’t need to chase wildlife through thick forest to be moved. Sometimes, you just need a boat, a quiet river, and one perfect shot of a chimp mid-swing.

Warning

Most people don’t visit inland Gambia, which is a pity because it is beautiful, but it is also good for travellers like you and me who love raw, authentic experiences. However, inland Gambia should come with a warning: the police are corrupt and they will look for any excuse to stop you and try to bribe you (well, not you, your driver). So be warned, it is an adventure!

Nyungwe Forest, Rwanda – Misty Mountains, Canopy Walks, and Chimps With a Side of Serenity

If you want to blend your chimpanzee adventure with sweeping mountain views, smooth roads, and just a hint of luxury, then Nyungwe Forest in Rwanda might just be your perfect match. It’s one of Africa’s oldest rainforests, home to a rich variety of flora and fauna, and yes, one of the best places to see chimpanzees in Africa.

It’s also incredibly Rwandan in the best way: beautifully maintained, well-organised, and deeply respectful of its biodiversity. It’s the kind of place where the trails are clearly marked, the rangers are sharp, and the entire experience feels… thoughtful.

What to Expect

Chimp trekking in Nyungwe isn’t quite as intense as Mahale or Kibale, but it’s still a proper hike, especially since the chimps here like to move. A lot.

You’ll head out early (we’re talking 5 am wake-ups), driving first to the trailhead and then trekking through thick forest while listening for vocalisations and rustling branches. When you find them, the experience is raw, noisy, and thrilling—chimps in Nyungwe tend to be quite vocal, and sometimes the trees feel like a playground during recess.

Why You Might Love It Here

• You can pair it with gorilla trekking in Volcanoes National Park, making Rwanda the ultimate primate destination.
• There’s more to do than just chimp trekking – think canopy walks, birdwatching, waterfalls, and cultural encounters
• It’s accessible without being over-touristed – a great “soft adventure” option.

Quick Facts & Travel Tips

• Permits: Around $90 USD (cheaper than Uganda, which is surprising considering gorilla trekking in Rwanda is double that of Uganda!), must be booked in advance
• Difficulty: Moderate—some steep sections but generally manageable
• Best time to go: June–September and December–February (dry seasons)
• Where to stay:
  • One&Only Nyungwe House – Five-star splurge with forest views and infinity pools
  • Gisakura Guest House – Affordable and friendly, right near the park gate

Travel With:

• Volcano Overviews Safari – I stayed in their hostel looking over at Volcanoes National Park last October, and they have since helped me arrange a number of trips for my readers, always with the utmost professionalism. To book the chimpanzees you best best is to contact Michael on WhatsApp (+250787936654)

Top Tip:

Don’t skip the canopy walk—it’s not chimp-related, but it is spectacular. Suspended 50 metres above the forest floor, it’s basically a high ropes course for people who prefer birds and butterflies over ziplines.

Nyungwe is for the traveller who wants a balance: the thrill of a chimp sighting without sacrificing hot showers or good coffee. It’s not as wild as some destinations, but it’s ethical, immersive, and beautifully executed.

Budongo Forest, Uganda – The Quiet Achiever of the Chimp World

If Kibale is the loud, popular sibling in Uganda’s chimpanzee family, Budongo Forest is the quiet one reading a book in the corner—still brilliant, just with less fanfare.

Tucked within the Murchison Falls Conservation Area, Budongo offers a more serene and spacious chimp trekking experience. It doesn’t have Kibale’s crowds or commercial polish, but that’s exactly what makes it one of the best places to see chimpanzees in Africa—especially if you’re craving a slower, more personal encounter.

Why Budongo is Worth Your Time

• Fewer tourists = more time and space with the chimps
• Excellent guides and strong conservation ethos – led by the Jane Goodall Institute
• Part of the larger Murchison Falls ecosystem, which means you can pair your chimp trek with classic safari game drives and even a Nile river cruise

It’s the kind of place where you can go from watching chimps swing through the treetops to seeing hippos wallow in the Nile—all in the same day.

What to Expect

• Chimps here are habituated but more cautious—perfect for travellers who want to witness truly natural behaviour without the Insta-hype.
• Treks are usually around 2–4 hours.
• Because of its lower elevation and open forest canopy, sightings can actually be easier than expected
• Rangers tend to be knowledgeable, passionate, and refreshingly unhurried

Permit & Practical Details

• Chimp trekking permit: ~$130 USD (slightly cheaper than Kibale)
• Best time to go: June–August and December–February (dry seasons)
• Fitness level: Moderate, but less steep terrain than Kibale
• Where to stay:
  • Budongo Eco Lodge – The only lodge inside the forest; rustic, relaxed, and immersed in nature
  • Paraa Safari Lodge or Sambiya River Lodge – For travellers combining with a wider Murchison Falls itinerary

Travel With:

• Dennis from Marvel Uganda Safaris (+256701308460)– They know Budongo like the back of their hand and can seamlessly combine it with gorilla trekking in Bwindi or a full Murchison Falls safari.

Budongo is perfect for travellers who value depth over drama. It’s less crowded, less rushed, and wonderfully real. And sometimes, the most meaningful wildlife moments are the ones that come without the fanfare.

Loango National Park, Gabon – Chimps, Surf, and the Safari You’ve Probably Never Heard Of

If your ideal chimpanzee adventure includes beachfront views, no tourists, walking elephants, and the possibility of seeing whales and hippos in the same day, then allow me to introduce you to Loango National Park—aka, the place Mother Nature went a little overboard (and we’re not mad about it).

Tucked between the Atlantic Ocean and Gabon’s dense rainforests, Loango is next-level wild. It’s remote, it’s expensive, and it’s logistically tricky, but it’s also one of the most untouched and biodiverse chimpanzee habitats in Africa. And let’s be honest: if you’ve made it this far in the post, this might be exactly your kind of crazy.

Why Loango is Legendary (Even If Few Have Heard of It)

• Chimpanzees in the coastal rainforest – you might spot them swinging between palm trees with the ocean as a backdrop
• Elephants and buffalo roam the beach – not a typo, they literally hang out on the sand
• Whales, hippos, and crocodiles are all nearby – because why not throw a marine safari into the mix?
• It’s a real adventure – few travellers go, but those who do rave about its raw, cinematic beauty.

What to Expect

The chimpanzees in Loango aren’t habituated in the same way as those in Kibale or Mahale. Sightings can be more fleeting, but somehow more profound because of it. They are wild. They are free. And they are absolutely not posing for your Instagram.

But the park offers guided hikes with trained trackers, and with a bit of luck and a lot of patience, you may find yourself sharing a sunrise with a family of chimps near the shoreline. Tell me that’s not magic.

Logistics & Travel Realities

Let’s just say: this is not a last-minute booking kind of place.

• Getting there: Fly into Libreville, connect to Port-Gentil or Omboué, then transfer by boat or 4×4 to the park
• Permits & tours: Must be arranged well in advance, usually via local eco-tourism operators
• Accommodation:
  • Some options are available through Booking.com, but many are best booked directly or via an experienced operator.

Best Time to Visit

• June to September – The Dry season is best for wildlife viewing and road conditions.
• Rainy season (Oct–May) turns the forest into a muddy slip-and-slide—not ideal for chimp tracking.

Who It’s Best For

• Serious adventurers and wildlife photographers
• Second- or third-time Africa travellers looking for something truly unique
• Those with patience, flexibility, and a willingness to trade luxury for legendary

Loango is not easy. But if you’re the kind of person who hears “you’ll need a boat, a plane, and a sturdy sense of humour” and thinks “sign me up”—then this is the one.

How to Choose the Right Chimpanzee Experience

So you’ve read through all the options, and now your head’s spinning with images of chimps on beaches, in boarding schools, swinging through jungles and starring in your travel dreams. But how do you actually choose the right experience for you?

Let’s break it down.

Whether you’re a luxury-loving honeymooner, a family of budding conservationists, or someone who enjoys a good hike only if there’s a cocktail at the end, there’s a chimp adventure out there with your name on it.

Ask Yourself These Questions First:

1. How wild do you want it?

• If you want full-on jungle immersion, choose Mahale, Tiwai, or Kibale (with a good guide)
• If you’re happy to see chimps in a semi-wild setting with great impact, opt for Tacugama, Sweetwaters, or The Gambia.

2. What’s your fitness level?

• Hate steep trails and humidity? Try The Gambia, Sweetwaters, or Tacugama
• Up for the challenge? Go for Mahale, Gombe, or Budongo

3. What’s your budget?

• Loango, Mahale, and Gombe = $$$$
• Budongo, Tacugama, The Gambia, and Kibale = budget-friendly options that don’t skimp on substance

4. Are you combining it with other experiences?

• Pair Kibale or Budongo with gorilla trekking in Bwindi
• Combine Sweetwaters with a Kenya safari
• Add Mahale or Gombe to the end of an epic Tanzania adventure
• Use Tacugama or Tiwai as part of your Sierra Leone journey

5. How important is ethics to you?

(If you’re still reading this post, I’m guessing very)

• Choose operators who support community-led tourism, follow strict no-contact rules, and don’t feed or bait chimps for sightings
• Ask questions. A good company will love that you care

Planning Your Trip: What You Need to Know Before You Go

You’ve picked your destination (or narrowed it down to six… baby steps), and now it’s time to prep for your chimpanzee adventure. But don’t worry—I’ve made all the rookie mistakes so you don’t have to. Here’s everything you need to know to plan a trip that’s ethical, safe, and doesn’t involve buying bug spray from a roadside stall labelled “DEET-ish.” (But please skip the DEET, read here to find out why!).

1. Book Your Permits Early

Chimp trekking permits are limited and often sell out months in advance—especially in high season (June–Sept and Dec–Feb). Some parks include the permit in your lodge package, while others require a separate booking. When in doubt? Ask your tour operator. They live for this stuff.

2. What to Pack for Chimp Tracking

• Long trousers and long sleeves – preferably quick-dry, because the jungle will try to melt you
• Hiking boots or sturdy trail shoes – with actual grip. Mud is not your friend.
• Light rain jacket or poncho – even in the dry season, the forest makes its own rules
• Insect repellent – DEET-free options like Incognito are better for your skin and the planet. Plus get 15% off when you use the code BEATOURS15
• Reusable water bottle – hydration without the plastic guilt. LifeStraw is my go-to!
• Binoculars – optional, but great if you want to pretend you’re on Planet Earth
• Mask – ethical operators will require one (and so should you)

3. Health & Safety Tips

• Malaria prophylaxis is essential in most chimp regions—consult your travel clinic well in advance
• Vaccinations like yellow fever may be required depending on the country. The NHS Fit To Travel website is great for telling you what vaccinations you might need.
• Travel insurance – Don’t be that person. Get comprehensive coverage that includes adventure travel, trip delays, and medical evacuation

4. Stay Connected (Even in the Wild)

• Many remote regions have patchy reception, but an eSIM like Airalo can keep you connected in multiple African countries without needing to swap SIM cards. Use the code TRUE to get 20% off.
• Download offline maps, translator apps, and your lodge confirmation before you lose signal halfway across a river.

5. Luggage Matters

• Hard-shell suitcases are not fun on bumpy jungle tracks, but if you are staying in fancy lodges and don’t feel the need to use a backpack, then I recommend Level8 suitcases!
• Go for something sturdy, weatherproof, and easy to carry over uneven terrain

6. Choose the Right Operator

I can’t stress this enough: a good operator can make or break your experience. Choose companies that work with local guides, support conservation, and don’t shove tourists at chimps like it’s a theme park. My personal go-tos? (INSERT)

• Migration Tanzania Safaris – for Mahale, Gombe, and full Tanzania itineraries
• Marvel Safaris Uganda (+256701308460) – for Kibale, Budongo, and primate-packed Uganda trips
• Dream Voyage Kenya – for Sweetwaters and seamless safari add-ons
• Volcanoes Over View Safaris (+250787936654) – for Nyungwe Forest, Volcanoes National Park (Gorillas) and Akagere National Park (Big 5)
• Pape (+221778812752) – for cross-border magic between Senegal and The Gambia

FAQS About Seeing Chimpanzees in Africa

Because if you’re anything like me, you have questions—and possibly a mildly overactive imagination. Here’s everything you might be wondering (and a few things you didn’t know you should be).

When is the best time to see chimpanzees in Africa?

Generally, the dry seasons offer the best trekking conditions and visibility:

• East Africa (Uganda, Rwanda, Tanzania): June–September and December–February
• West Africa (Sierra Leone, The Gambia): November–March

That said, the chimps don’t exactly consult a calendar, so sightings can happen year-round, just with muddier shoes.

Are chimpanzees dangerous?

They’re wild animals, not teddy bears. But as long as you follow the rules (keep your distance, wear a mask, don’t try to high-five one), the risk is minimal. In all places, you’ll be accompanied by expert guides trained in safety and behaviour.

How close will I get to the chimps?

The official rule is at least 7–10 metres, though chimps don’t always follow the rules. Sometimes they pass by casually. Other times, they swing overhead or completely ignore you (rude, but fair).

Do I need a permit?

Yes. Always. Whether you’re in a sanctuary or a national park, chimpanzee visits are tightly regulated for good reason. Book well in advance—especially for Kibale, Mahale, and Nyungwe.

Can children go chimp trekking?

It depends. Most parks have a minimum age of 15 or 16, mainly due to the physical demands and potential disease transmission. If you’re travelling with younger kids, consider Sweetwaters in Kenya or the boat experience in The Gambia instead.

Is chimp trekking hard?

It can be. Some hikes are short and gentle, while others feel like a jungle gym with no exit sign. Mahale and Gombe are the most strenuous, while Tacugama, Sweetwaters, and The Gambia are easy and accessible.

Is it ethical to see chimpanzees in sanctuaries?

Yes—if it’s the right sanctuary. Look for places that prioritise rehabilitation, education, and habitat conservation. Tacugama, Sweetwaters, and The Gambia’s CRP are shining examples of how sanctuaries can change both animal and human lives for the better.

Anything else you’re wondering? Pop it in the comments—I’m always happy to help.

Ready to Plan Your Chimpanzee Adventure?

So now you know the best places to see chimpanzees in Africa, how to travel ethically, what to pack and where to go.

The only thing left to do? Go.

Whether you’re dreaming of remote rainforests in Tanzania, boat rides through the mangroves in The Gambia, or a soul-stirring visit to a sanctuary like Tacugama, I hope this guide has shown you that chimp trekking is about more than just a sighting. It’s about connection. Conservation. And coming home a little more human than you were before.

Still deciding? No pressure. Save this post, reread it with a coffee (or wine), and reach out when you’re ready to turn the dream into a plan.