Uganda Primate Safaris, Uganda the pearl of Africa is one of the top primate safari destinations to visit in Africa. Located in East Africa, Uganda is a country with breathtaking natural beauty, diverse cultures and incredible wildlife including Primates.
The country is home to a remarkable array of primates, boasting a sanctuary for 20 captivating species. From the iconic mountain gorillas, to the playful chimpanzees and elusive golden monkeys, Uganda offers unparalleled opportunities for primate encounters.
Best time for Uganda Primate Safaris
Uganda primate safaris are available year-round. However, the best time is during the Dry seasons (June to August and December to February). During this season, there are better trekking conditions and comfortable temperatures ranging between (20-25 degrees). This is because of the dry terrain that makes navigating through the forests a lot more easier.
The dry seasons also have less foliage which provides unobstructed views of the primates.
During the dry seasons, primates are more active, which stimulates them to move and forage.
Uganda Primate species
Mountain Gorillas
Mountain Gorillas are the main attraction of Uganda’s primate kingdom. With approximately half of the world’s remaining mountain gorilla population residing in Uganda’s Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park, the chances of encountering these majestic creatures is absolutely high. These protected areas provide them with a suitable environment and ensure the preservation of their natural habitat. Gorilla trekking in Uganda is an opportunity to witness these gentle giants in their natural habitat and gain a deeper understanding of their behavior and social dynamics.
The country also has habituated gorillas, this is where gorilla groups are trained to gradually become used to the presence of humans. This allows visitors to observe these magnificent creatures from a safe distance, offering a unique and immersive experience.
Uganda is a top destination for primate enthusiasts, mainly Mountain Gorilla encounters.
i; Uganda offers affordable trekking options for visitors, making it more accessible to a broader range of travelers.
ii; Uganda provides more gorilla trekking permits than other countries which means more people can partake in the life-changing experience of encountering Mountain Gorillas in their natural habitat per session.
iii; Visiting Uganda for a Mountain Gorilla trekking experience provides a unique opportunity to witness these incredible creatures up close and contribute to their conservation.
Chimpanzees
In addition to mountain gorillas, the country is also known for its chimpanzee population. Chimpanzees, scientifically known as Pan troglodytes, are our closest living relatives, sharing approximately 98.8% of our DNA. Uganda is home to an estimated 5,000 chimpanzees with Kibale National park hosting the highest population of over 1,500 chimpanzees. A chimpanzee trek typically requires less physical effort than a mountain gorilla trek. During the trek, you will have the remarkable opportunity to observe a troop of chimpanzees for one hour.
Golden Monkeys
These are a rare and endangered primate species with a unique charm. These captivating creatures are in three countries for example Rwanda, Congo, and Uganda, specifically in the foothills of the Virunga Volcanoes. In Uganda, golden monkeys are in Mgahinga Gorilla National park. Golden Monkeys exhibit a distinctive appearance. They have a golden body, cheeks, and tails, complemented by black limbs, crowns on their heads, and rear ends. As a subspecies of the blue monkey, they primarily inhabit the bamboo forests of the Mgahinga National Park.
Similar to their primate relatives, chimpanzees and mountain gorillas, Golden Monkeys have undergone habituation. This process involves gradually acclimating them to the presence of humans, allowing visitors to observe their daily lives without causing disturbance or distress. Visitors can witness these monkeys engaging in their natural behaviors, such as feeding, grooming, and socializing while being respectful observers.
Olive Baboons
These species are in 25 African countries, from Mali in the west to Ethiopia and Uganda in the east. Olive Baboons inhabit various habitats, including savannahs, steppes, and forests. They are named after their coat color, which appears as a green-gray shade from a distance. These baboons have a complex social structure, relying on various forms of vocal and non-vocal communication.
Blue Monkeys
The Blue Monkeys live and are widely distributed in East and Central Africa including Uganda. These monkeys have a dark blue-gray coat, with a white throat and patch on their chest. In Uganda’s parks, they belong to the Guenon family, mainly found in Murchison Falls National Park and Lake Mburo National Park. Unlike some other primates, there are no specific Blue Monkey treks available. However, you may come across them while trekking for other wildlife or primates in Uganda.
Black and White Colobus Monkeys
In Uganda, these primates are the most widely spread primates. The black and white colobus monkeys are commonly seen in extensive forests. For example the well-developed riparian woodlands. Easily identifiable by their black bodies, white faces, whitetails, and white sides, the Black and White Colobus monkeys live in small groups. Some places to see them for example is the Entebbe Botanical Gardens. They are in several national parks of Uganda and in areas outside the protected parks.
Other Primates found in Uganda include; Grey-Cheeked Mangabey Monkeys ,De Brazza’s Monkeys, Uganda Mangabey Monkeys, L’Hoest’s Monkeys, Patas Monkeys, Red Colobus Monkeys, and Red-Tailed Monkeys among others.
Best Places to see primates during your Uganda Primate Safaris
Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Famous for hosting nearly half of the world’s endangered mountain gorilla population, Bwindi offers unforgettable gorilla tracking experiences for tourists.
Kibale Forest National Park
A premier destination for chimpanzee trekking in Africa, is home to over 1,500 chimps. The park is the “primate capital of the World“. This is because it boasts the highest density and diversity of primates on the continent, with 13 distinct species inhabiting its lush forests.
Queen Elizabeth National Park
One of Uganda’s national parks famous for its rich wildlife diversity, including tree-climbing lions. Queen Elizabeth National Park hosts chimpanzees in Kyambura gorge and kalinzu. The is also home to various monkey species such as Vervet monkeys and baboons.
Mgahinga Gorilla National Park
Serving as another vital habitat for the endangered mountain gorillas, Mgahinga is as well renowned for its rare golden monkeys, offering visitors a unique primate-watching experience.
Semliki National Park
Nestled within Semiliki’s verdant landscapes, are several monkey species. For example the red-tailed monkeys, black-and-white colobus monkeys, and blue monkeys, providing ample opportunities for primate sightings.
Murchison Falls National Park
While celebrated for its breathtaking waterfall and savannah wildlife, Murchison Falls is also home to several primate species. For example olive baboons and ground-dwelling Patas monkeys, adding to the park’s diverse primate population.
Budongo Forest
Adjacent to Murchison Falls, Budongo Forest harbors approximately 800 chimpanzees along with various monkey species. Therefore offering visitors an immersive primate-watching experience.
Kalinzu Forest
Located near Queen Elizabeth National Park, Kalinzu Forest is home to around 300 chimpanzees. This therefore provides opportunities for intimate encounters with these fascinating primates.