This is the signature experience of Kibale National Park and a must-do for visitors. Guided treks take place twice a day — in the morning (8:00 AM) and afternoon (2:00 PM) — and offer a 95% success rate in spotting chimpanzees in their natural habitat.
Small groups of up to 6 tourists, led by professional ranger guides, follow the calls, footprints, and nests to locate the chimps. Once found, visitors spend up to an hour observing these intelligent primates as they feed, groom, and play. The tracking duration varies between 2 to 6 hours, depending on the location of the chimpanzee groups.
Chimpanzee Habituation Experience (CHEX)
For those seeking a deeper and more intimate encounter, the Chimpanzee Habituation Experience offers the chance to spend up to 6 hours with a chimpanzee community that is being habituated to human presence.
This activity starts early — around 6:30 AM — and participants accompany researchers, guides, and conservationists into the forest. You’ll observe the chimpanzees waking up, feeding, socializing, and building nests for the next night. Due to its popularity and limited availability, it is advisable to book CHEX at least 3 months in advance.
Bird Watching
Kibale is a birding paradise with over 375 species, making it a hotspot for birdwatchers year-round. Some of the most sought-after species include:
African and green-breasted pittas
Olive long-tailed cuckoo
Yellow-rumped tinkerbird
Black bee-eater
Dusky crimsonwing
Birding is done on foot and usually begins early in the morning, accompanied by knowledgeable bird guides who help identify even the most elusive species. The Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary, located near the park, further adds to the richness of the birding experience.
Guided Nature Walks
Nature walks through Kibale’s rainforest offer a chance to observe the park’s non-primate residents, including butterflies, reptiles, forest hogs, and the shy forest elephants. The walks are conducted by experienced guides who provide insights into the ecological importance of the forest, as well as the rich biodiversity.
Night nature walks are also available, giving visitors the opportunity to spot nocturnal animals such as bush babies, tree hyraxes, and nightjars, which are rarely seen during the day.
Cultural and Community Visits
Kibale is surrounded by rich and diverse cultural communities, and one of the highlights is a visit to the Bigodi Village and Wetland Sanctuary. Managed by the local community, this eco-tourism project offers:
Cultural dances and storytelling
Village walks and traditional homestead visits
Swamp walks for more birding and primate sightings
These interactions allow visitors to experience authentic Ugandan culture while contributing to local conservation and development initiatives.
EXPLORE UGANDA
Explore Uganda
Uganda, the “Pearl of Africa,” is a treasure trove of natural beauty, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural heritage. Located in the heart of East Africa, Uganda is a premier tourist destination, offering an unforgettable experience for visitors.
Uganda’s natural beauty is breathtaking. The majestic Rwenzori Mountains, also known as the “Mountains of the Moon,” offer stunning views and exciting hiking trails. Lake Victoria, the world’s second-largest freshwater lake, and the Great Nile River provide breathtaking scenery and exciting water sports.
The country’s diverse wildlife is another major draw.
Uganda is home to over 1,000 species of birds, including the iconic shoebill stork and the grey crowned crane. National parks like Queen Elizabeth, Murchison Falls, and Bwindi Impenetrable offer a chance to see iconic African wildlife, including lions, leopards, elephants, and buffalo. Uganda is also home to a large population of mountain gorillas, with guided treks available in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park.
Uganda’s rich cultural heritage is also on display. With over 50 ethnic groups, each with their own unique customs, traditions, and languages, visitors can experience the country’s vibrant cultural scene by visiting local villages, attending cultural festivals, and learning about the country’s history and traditions.
In conclusion, Uganda is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring the beauty and wonder of Africa. With its incredible natural beauty, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural heritage, Uganda offers an unforgettable experience for visitors.
The pearl of Africa is a safe country and always open to all safari goers, we bring closer to magic starting from the village level to the maximum of your expectations. While Uganda, always has a 360 rotation both destinations are worth visiting, the country has 10 major national parks and several wildlife reserves, it’s rich in primates and Savannah specials, forested and mountainous, which creates a magical view while in this country. People are friendly and always engage your safari guide for more ideas, tipping is a culture in the country so we encourage anyone to always appreciate the locals.
You will be given your own safari guide, who will have to play a big role to enlighten your trip you will build a relationship with your guide, see hundreds of animals and beautiful sceneries, move further, north, and proceed to the south all flexible movements.
All travel destinations have smooth and rough roads depending on where you are heading to. Other areas have trains connecting to leisure areas like Mombasa -Nairobi, those who don’t wish to move on the road for a long time can use local charters and this applies in all east African countries
Uganda Destinations
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Safari Activities in Kilifi County
Kilifi offers more than just beach lounging. It is an active safari destination with a wide variety of land and sea adventures, suitable for all ages and preferences. Among the most popular activities are:
Water Sports: The warm waters of the Indian Ocean provide the perfect conditions for water-based safari activities. Guests can enjoy kite surfing, scuba diving, snorkeling, and deep-sea fishing. Kilifi Creek is especially popular for sunset sailing excursions, where visitors can relax on a dhow as the sun sets over the horizon.
Cultural Safaris: Travelers are invited to immerse themselves in the daily life of Kilifi residents. Engage in cultural dances, taste authentic Swahili dishes, and explore local markets. Street food, such as deep-fried cassava, is a must-try and gives a taste of Kilifi’s rich culinary culture.
Historical Exploration: The Mnarani Ruins offer guided tours where you can learn about the ancient Swahili settlements and the role they played in coastal trade.
Eco-Tourism and Nature Walks: Several eco-friendly facilities offer guided nature walks around Kilifi’s forests and mangrove ecosystems. These provide opportunities for bird watching and photography.
Night Cruises: Evening boat rides along Kilifi Creek are a highlight. These 2–3 hour excursions offer a peaceful way to enjoy the starlit sky and calm waters. Guests are encouraged to bring cameras and binoculars for spotting distant marine life or simply capturing stunning landscapes.
Visits to Watamu Marine National Park: Just a 30–60 minute drive from Kilifi, this marine park offers spectacular snorkeling and diving experiences. Swim alongside dolphins, observe colorful reef fish, and enjoy a pristine protected marine ecosystem. Some operators also offer whale or tiger shark spotting tours (season-dependent).
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we Are Wild Compass Africa
Experience Africa- Tailored Luxury Safaris for Unforgettable Adventures
Welcome to the heart of Africa, where adventure and happiness converge. We specialise in premium safaris across East and central and Southern Africa, including Uganda, Rwanda, Kenya, Tanzania, South Sudan, Botswana, Madagascar, Ethiopia, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Choose from an array of mid-range to luxury trips that feature unique gorilla and chimpanzee trekking, immersive cultural experiences, birdwatching excursions, and breathtaking hikes, all led by expert local guides.
Our philosophy centers on responsible travel, fostering deep connections with the rich cultures and traditions of the region. Engage meaningfully with local communities to create lasting memories.
Crafted with care, our itineraries ensure seamless adventures, highlighting the enchanting forests where mountain gorillas and chimpanzees thrive, as well as the vibrant savannahs brimming with wildlife. With our dedication to excellence, your luxury journey will surpass expectations.
Encounter Africa’s big five and the most sought after wildlife species on the continent. Reach us now for a tailor made itinerary to spot lions, gorillas, elephants, zebras, rhinos and Africa’s key species.
Immerse yourself in Africa’s indigenous cultures from the Masaai , the Hadza to the Batwa. contact us for a cultural experience that fits exactly your demands