What to do in Kibale

Hands-down the best chimp trekking in East Africa, most lodges and activities in Kibale are geared around the cheeky apes and forest walks. The trekking experience here is second to none: firstly, the glossy, green and relatively undisturbed forest is a trekker’s paradise and you’ll be searching for primates in the company of larger-than-life leadwood and fig trees, and plenty of birdlife. Secondly, with almost 1,500 chimpanzees leaping around the foliage, the chances of seeing them are excellent. Most treks depart early in the morning when the chimps are at their most active, but afternoon excursions are also possible. Expect to be out for at least 2-3 hours. When you’re not with the chimps, expect to share walks with vervet, red-tailed and L’Hoest's monkeys, as well as olive baboons and Ugandan mangabeys. Hikes and walks to the crater lakes also offer lovely sightings of smaller fauna and plenty of flora, usually ending with a swim in the clear waters.