Chimpanzee trekking in Budongo forest
Budongo Forest is a tropical rainforest located in Uganda, East Africa. It is one of the largest and most biodiverse natural forests in the country and is part of the larger Murchison Falls Conservation Area. The forest is situated in the northwest of Uganda, near the border with the Democratic Republic of Congo. Budongo Forest is known for its rich biodiversity, housing a wide variety of flora and fauna and is where Chimpanzee trekking in budongo forest in carried out and its known as the only place to do chimp trek tour in Murchison falls national park
It’s particularly renowned for its diverse primate population, including chimpanzees, baboons, and various species of monkeys.
Chimpanzee Habituation and Trekking
Budongo Forest is a popular destination for chimpanzee tracking and habituation experiences.
Visitors have the opportunity to observe and learn about these fascinating primates in their natural habitat as well as a haven for birdwatchers.
With over 360 bird species documented, including the African dwarf kingfisher, the yellow-billed barbet, and the chocolate-backed kingfisher.
Budongo Forest has been a significant site for research on primates and other aspects of tropical ecology.
Conservation efforts are ongoing to protect and preserve the unique biodiversity of the forest.
Tourism activities in Budongo Forest include guided nature walks, bird watching, and primate tracking, providing visitors with the opportunity to appreciate and enjoy the natural beauty and wildlife of the forest while promoting eco-friendly practices.
Budongo forest location
Budongo Forest is located within the larger Murchison Falls Conservation Area, which also encompasses Murchison Falls National Park and Karuma Wildlife Reserve.
Visiting Budongo Forest allows individuals to experience the beauty of an African rainforest, observe primates in their natural habitat, and contribute to the conservation efforts aimed at protecting this important ecological area.
Typical Tour During Chimpanzee trekking in Budongo Forest Reserve
The activity starts early morning after breakfast at the lodge, you will head to the park headquarters to meet the expert rangers who will conduct a pre trekking briefing on the rules and regulations for a successful chimpanzee trekking.
You will be put in groups of 6 members each led by an expert guide.
Being wild animals, they tend to move from place to place in search for food, therefore, the trekking may last for 3omin to 5 hours depending on the location and how far the chimpanzees have moved.
During the trek in the forest, you will be rewarded with great views of other primates like the red-tailed monkeys, black and white colobus monkeys, Olive baboons and a wide array of different bird species as well as the tree species among others.
Once you found them, you will have one hour with them in their natural habitat as you observe them go by their daily activities.
Take photos and record videos for your memories.
Besides chimp trekking, Budongo forest offers visitors an opportunity to participate in Chimpanzee habituation which is an adventurous activity where by the wild chimpanzees are trained to get used to the sight of humans before they are declared ready for trekking.
The habituation takes about 2-3 years to be considered complete.
During the habituation, you will be allowed 4 hours with the chimpanzees has you study them, learn their x-tics, their behavior, movement among other daily activities.
Chimpanzee Habituation in Budongo forest, is only carried out during low season in the month of March to May.
Cost of Chimpanzee trekking permit in Budongo forest
To be able to see the chimpanzees in their natural habitat, you will need to purchase a permit which is the legal document issued by Uganda wildlife Authority a body managing all the protected areas in Uganda.
The permits are issued to persons above the age of 15 years allowing the visitors to see them in their Natural habitat.
Budongo permits during the peak season costs 130 USD per person for foreign non residence, 120 USD for foreign residents and 85 USD for East African Citizens.
To obtain the permits, the permits can be purchased directly through Uganda wildlife Authority or through a reputable local tour operator company like us at Adventure in the Wild safaris.
You will provide us with your information on the dates, month and year you would like to take part in chimpanzee trekking in Budongo forest and we will take on the process for permit booking for you.
You will be asked to deposit for the permit in order to reserve them. The easiest and time saving is to consult a trusted local tour company to arrange the safari in Uganda for you.
Best time to visit Budongo forest for Chimpanzee trekking
Budongo Forest, located in Uganda, is a popular destination for chimpanzee trekking and wildlife viewing.
The best time to visit Budongo Forest for chimpanzee trekking largely depends on the weather, which can impact your overall experience. Below are some considerations:
Dry Season (June to September, December to February):
The dry season is generally considered the best time for chimpanzee trekking.
During this time, the trails are more accessible, and the chances of encountering chimpanzees are higher. The weather is relatively dry and pleasant, making hiking and exploring the forest more enjoyable.
Wet Season (March to May, October to November):
While the wet season can make trekking more challenging due to muddy and slippery trails, it can be a great time for chimpanzee trekking as well.
The forest is lush and green during this time, providing beautiful scenery and a different experience. However, expect more rain and potential difficulties with trail conditions.
Avoiding Peak Rainfall Months:
If you want to avoid heavy rainfall and difficult trekking conditions, it’s advisable to avoid the peak rainfall months, which are typically April and November.
It’s important to note that weather patterns can vary from year to year.
So it’s a good idea to check with local tour operators or wildlife authorities for the most up-to-date and accurate information on weather conditions and chimpanzee trekking availability.
Do not hesitate to contact Adventure in the wild safaris for more information on weather and the best time for chimpanzee trekking in Budongo forest and any other national park and conservation areas in Uganda.
Additionally, securing permits in advance for chimpanzee trekking is essential, as they have limited availability each day.
It’s recommended to book permits well in advance, especially during the peak tourist season, to ensure you have the opportunity to trek chimpanzees in
Budongo Forest.
Where to stay during the visit in Budongo forest in Murchison falls national park for Chimpanzee trekking experience.
The park offers a wide variety of accommodation options ranging from Budget, mid-range to luxury facilities from which you can choose to stay during your chimpanzee trekking experience in the park.
The lodges offer comfortable accommodation at a pocket friendly rate.
Including; Budongo Eco Lodge, Fort Murchison Lodge, Chobe Safari lodge, Masindi hotel, New court view hotel, Boomu Eco Lodge, Hotel Victory Bijja, Kabalega Resort Hotel, Sambiya River Lodge, Paraa safari Lodge, Red Chilli Rest Camp, UWA Campsites, Yebo Safari Camp, Geo Lodges Shoe bill Camp among others.
How to get to Budongo forest-Murchison falls National Park
Budongo Forest is a pristine tropical rainforest located near Murchison Falls National Park in Uganda. To get to Budongo Forest and Murchison Falls National Park, follow these general steps:
Choose Your Mode of Transportation:
Depending on your location and preferences, you can choose to travel by air, road, or a combination of both.
Fly to Uganda:
If you’re coming from outside Uganda, you’ll need to book a flight to Uganda.
The main international airport is Entebbe International Airport (EBB) near the capital, Kampala.
Travel to Masindi:
Masindi is the nearest major town to Budongo Forest and Murchison Falls National Park.
From Entebbe or Kampala, you can take a domestic flight to the local airport in Masindi, or you can opt for a road trip.
By Air:
Fly from Entebbe to Pakuba Airfield, which is close to Murchison Falls National Park.
From Pakuba Airfield, you can arrange for transport to Budongo Forest and Murchison Falls National Park.
By Road:
Drive from Kampala to Masindi by car or hire a private driver.
The journey by road takes several hours, approximately 5-6 hours and you’ll pass through various towns and landscapes. The route is well-marked and relatively well-maintained.
Travel from Masindi to Budongo Forest:
From Masindi, you’ll need to arrange ground transportation to Budongo Forest. You can hire a local taxi, use a tour operator, or rent a car to get to the forest.
Taxi or Car Hire:
Arrange for a taxi or rent a car in Masindi to take you to Budongo Forest. Make sure to confirm the availability of transportation and the road conditions.
The most effective and easiest way to get to Budongo forest is to consider booking a guided tour with a reputable tour operator like Adventure in the wild safaris.
we can organize transportation, provide a guide, and ensure a smooth trip to Budongo Forest and Murchison Falls National Park.
Arrive at Budongo Forest:
Your transportation will take you to the designated entry point of Budongo Forest.
Once there, you can explore the forest and enjoy the various activities offered, such as guided forest walks, bird watching, and primate tracking.
Ensure you plan your trip in advance, check for any travel advisories, and make necessary bookings to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey to Budongo Forest and Murchison Falls National Park.
