Kibale Forest National Park Uganda – Location, Activities, Entrance Fees & Chimpanzee Trekking

Explore the heart of Uganda’s primate paradise – Kibale Forest National Park. Famous for its dense tropical rainforest and the largest population of chimpanzees in East Africa, Kibale is a top destination for wildlife lovers, researchers, and adventurers.

Where is Kibale Forest National Park Located?

Kibale Forest National Park is located in western Uganda, approximately 26 km southeast of Fort Portal and about 348 km (5-6 hours’ drive) from Kampala. The park lies within the districts of Kabarole and Kamwenge and is part of a vital wildlife corridor linking to Queen Elizabeth National Park, making it ideal for combined safaris.

Coordinates: 0.4855° N, 30.3894° E

Kibale National Park Entrance Fee (2025)

Fees are subject to change. Always confirm with Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA).

Activities in Kibale Forest National Park

1. Chimpanzee Trekking

Track habituated chimpanzees through lush forest trails. Trekking lasts 2–4 hours, with one hour allowed for close observation once located. Kibale boasts a 90–95% success rate for sightings.

• Morning or afternoon sessions
• Permit fee: ~$200 USD per person
• Age limit: 12 years+
  
  

2. Chimpanzee Habituation Experience (CHEX)

Spend a full day with researchers and witness chimp behavior from nest-building to social dynamics. This immersive activity is available year-round and is limited to small groups.

• Permit fee: ~$250 USD
• Duration: 6–8 hours
• Best for wildlife photographers and primate enthusiasts
  
  

3. Nature & Forest Walks

Explore Kibale’s stunning biodiversity on foot — from ancient mahogany trees to over 350 bird species and 13 primate species including red colobus, grey-cheeked mangabey, and L’Hoest’s monkey.

4. Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary Visit

A community-led conservation success. This swamp walk rewards visitors with incredible birdwatching (e.g. great blue turaco), primates, and butterflies.

5. Nocturnal Walks

Night walks offer a chance to spot bush babies, pottos, and other nocturnal wildlife.

Kibale Forest National Park Facts

• Size: ~795 km²
• Altitude: 1,100m to 1,600m
• Established: 1993
• Species diversity:
  • 13 primate species (most in East Africa)
  • 375+ bird species
  • 60+ mammals
• Home to ~1,500 chimpanzees
• Linked via wildlife corridor to Queen Elizabeth National Park
  
  

Kibale Forest and Queen Elizabeth National Park Safari Connection

Kibale and Queen Elizabeth National Parks are often visited together on 5 to 8-day Uganda safari itineraries, thanks to a wildlife corridor that enables elephant and primate migration. Start with chimp trekking in Kibale and move south for game drives and boat cruises in Queen Elizabeth National Park.

Distance from Kampala to Kibale Forest National Park

Kampala to Kibale covers roughly 348 km by road — approximately a 5 to 6-hour drive via Mityana–Fort Portal road. The route is scenic and paved, with several stopover points including tea plantations and crater lakes.

FAQs about Kibale Forest National Park

1. Where is Kibale Forest National Park located?

Kibale is in western Uganda, near Fort Portal, bordering Queen Elizabeth National Park to the south.

2. How much is the entrance fee to Kibale National Park?

For foreign non-residents, it’s USD 40 per adult per day. East African citizens pay UGX 20,000.

3. What activities can I do in Kibale National Park?

Popular activities include chimpanzee trekking, chimpanzee habituation, birdwatching, nature walks, Bigodi swamp walk, and nocturnal forest walks.

4. What is chimpanzee habituation in Kibale Forest?

This is a full-day immersive experience where you follow chimps being habituated to humans, guided by researchers.

5. Is Kibale worth visiting with Queen Elizabeth National Park?

Absolutely. Their ecological connection offers a full wildlife experience — from primates in Kibale to big game in Queen Elizabeth.

Plan Your Safari to Kibale Forest Today

Looking to see chimpanzees up close? We offer personalized itineraries combining Kibale Forest, Queen Elizabeth NP, and more. Contact us now for a free quote and custom plan.