Budongo Eco Park, situated near Murchison Falls National Park, is a prime chimpanzee habitat. Just a five-hour drive from Kampala, this pristine wilderness offers an incredible opportunity for chimpanzee habituation and trekking, making it an excellent addition to your safari adventure.
Chimpanzee Habituation and Trekking Permits at Budongo Eco Park:
- Chimpanzee Habituation Permit: This unique permit allows you to immerse yourself in the world of chimpanzees for a full day. You’ll have the privilege of observing these fascinating creatures up close, witnessing their feeding habits, social interactions, and communication. Priced at USD 230 for Non-Foreign Residents, USD 160 for Foreign Residents, and USD 90 for Uganda Citizens, this permit is a doorway to an extended experience with our closest relatives in the animal kingdom.
- Chimpanzee Trekking Permit: If you prefer a shorter but equally magical encounter, the chimpanzee trekking permit grants you one hour with a habituated chimpanzee group. Priced at USD 130 for Non-Foreign Residents, USD 120 for Foreign Residents, and USD 85 for Uganda Citizens, this permit offers a glimpse into the daily lives of chimpanzees. There are two trekking sessions available: one in the morning starting at 8:00 am and another in the afternoon beginning at mid-day.
The Trekking Experience:
- Your adventure begins with an early morning briefing at the forest headquarters, where you’ll receive important information about forest etiquette and safety guidelines.
- You’ll be grouped with fellow adventurers, each accompanied by knowledgeable park guides and rangers who will lead you through the forest.
- The trek itself lasts between 2 to 4 hours, depending on the chimpanzee group’s location.
- Once you locate the chimpanzees, you’ll have one precious hour to observe them in their natural habitat as they eat, rest, and play. This intimate encounter may also offer glimpses of other primates, reptiles, and forest elephants.
Chimpanzee Communities at Budongo Forest Reserve:
Budongo Forest Reserve is home to around 700 chimpanzees distributed across various communities, each with its unique characteristics and territories. Some of the notable communities include:
- Sonso Chimpanzee Community: Located near River Sonso, this community boasts more than 85 members and is one of the oldest groups to be habituated in Budongo.
- Waibira Chimpanzee Community: With over 100 members, this community originated from a splinter group of Sonso and has thrived over the years.
- Kaniyo-Pabidi Chimpanzee Community: Initially habituated by the Jane Goodall Institute and now managed by Budongo Eco-Lodge, this community resides near the road from Masindi to Murchison Falls National Park.
- Waisoke Chimpanzee Community: This group, habituated over time, resides near the Waisoke River and comprises individuals from various origins, including Sonso.
Chimpanzee trekking demands a reasonable level of fitness, but guides and porters are available to assist those with limited mobility. It’s a memorable experience that allows you to connect with our closest relatives in the wild.
Accommodation at Budongo Eco Park:
The Budongo Eco Park offers comfortable lodging options within or near the reserve, providing you with an immersive experience in the heart of the forest. Budongo Eco Lodge, is the only lodge inside the park, however other lodges are within Murchison National Park and Masindi town.
Getting to Budongo Eco Park:
Budongo Eco Park is conveniently located, with a 5-hour drive from Kampala and approximately an hour’s drive from Murchison Falls National Park.
How to Book Your Chimpanzee Permit or Tour to Budongo Eco Park:
For booking chimpanzee permits or arranging a tour to Budongo Eco Park, reach out to One More Adventure Safaris. We specialize in crafting unforgettable wildlife experiences and will ensure that your visit to this primate haven is seamless and extraordinary.
