Chimpanzee Permits are the documents issued by the Uganda Wildlife Authority to allow track chimpanzees in their natural habitats, Kibale forest national park is one of the best tourism destinations, a hot spot for many travelers. It is rare for visitors coming into the country for tourism purposes to leave the country minus reaching Uganda’s capital of primates. There are 13 primate species living within the national park, and the main resident is the chimpanzee, these were first tracked in the 1993 at the Kanyanchu visitor center, the surrounding parts of the park present a gorgeous view of the detailed many crater lakes and the Bigodi swamp sanctuary.
Tracking chimpanzees in Kibale Forest National Park is done in sessions in the morning time, and afternoon time at 8:00 am and 2; 00 pm respectively, the Uganda wildlife ranger briefs guests as per the day’s hike and more about the primates, the activity takes 2-3 hours with a lead guide in search of man’s closest relatives. They are characterized by their social behavior, intelligence with the ability to use tools, they are herbivorous animals feeding on the forest plants, tree leaves, and occasionally insects, they love to nest in the tree canopies, are active jumping from one tree to another more so the young chimpanzee.
Chimpanzee Permits in Kibale Forest National Park, are mostly purchased by the local tour operator who is a Uganda-registered company holder, the process begins with an inquiry of what exactly you would like to have, then the operator will check availability from the authority, and also one of the accommodation facilities in Kibale forest national park. It is important to plan in advance for the chimpanzee tracking to avoid last minute cancelations and disappointments. Chimpanzee permits are costed at $200 for foreign non-residents, $150 for foreign residents, and 150,000 shillings for East African citizens.
When booking chimpanzee permits you need an issue your detailed information on passports, date of travel, and month so that they avail the most accurate date for your experience. The best time to visit the Kibale Forest National Park is during the dry season in the months of December-February and June- early September it is during this time that the forest is dry, but can get colder during the evenings. It is important to carry long sleeved trousers and shirts, insect repellants, hiking shoes, water proof covers for phones and cameras, hand gloves, and any other items of personal nature.
Besides the forest is not only home to the chimpanzee but also over 300 species of birds including the yellow-spotted nicator, collared Apalis, purple-breasted sunbirds, Rwenzori turaco, and black bee-eater, there are animals present in the national park although they are rarely seen these include forest elephants, bush pigs, giant forest hogs, to mention a few. There is nothing to worry about where you are going to stay because there is available accommodation in the park ranging from the best budget to luxury. Examples of facilities include Kibale Forest Camp, Ndali Lodge, Kyaninga Lodge, Primate Lodge, Turaco Treetops among others.