Kalinzu Forest Reserve – Chimpanzee Trekking in Kalinzu

This is one of least talked about sites in Uganda yet it keeps some of the most sought attractions on the continent, the chimpanzees. Kalinzu Central Forest Reserve is located in western Uganda close to the popular Queen Elizabeth national park. Situated near Maramagambo forest, Kalinzu is an attractive natural forest on a strategically picturesque place.

Kalinzu forest is home to various species of primates including chimpanzees which are the main attraction there. It is among the top chimp trekking destinations in Uganda ad is suitable for travelers seeking to do the activity on budget basis as the cost of a chimp permit is lower than that of Kibale national park. While walking through Kalinzu in search of chimps, also look out for L’Hoest monkeys, red-tailed monkeys, black and white colobus monkeys, Vervet monkeys and baboons. The forest also harbors over 350 bird species and more than 200 species of butterflies.

Chimp trekking in Kalinzu Central Forest Reserve

Trekking chimpanzees is an exhilarating experience that everyone adventurer ought to do. In Kalinzu forest, there are approximately 320 chimpanzees and about 50 of them are habituated. They are open for tourism at any time of the year. If you are planning for a trip to Queen Elizabeth national park and are interested in Chimp trekking, then Kalinzu would make the best inclusion to the tour package.

Most tourists to Kalinzu prefer trekking these awesome primates in the morning session which starts at 8:00am. However, depending on the visitor’s programme, trekking can also be done at 2:00pm. Chimps are more active in the morning as they roam around the forest to feed and they may be a bit lazy and relaxing in the afternoon when the day gets hotter.

Chimp trekking in Kalinzu starts with a briefing about the activity, guidelines, what is expected and then a guide leads the tourists into the forest to areas where the animals are likely to be found. It requires some energy and physical fitness to trek chimps, though not like gorilla trekking and chimp trekking in Kyambura Gorge. These apes move a lot, the experience of trekking may sometimes involve long walks before finally spotting them. One of the most thrilling things that create lifetime memories is coming across chimpanzees in their natural habitat. They can be playful and at times do comic pauses. Create a chance to watch the closest relatives to man by planning a trip to Kalinzu forest reserve.

Cost of a chimp permit in Kalinzu Central forest reserve

Among the various destinations in East Africa, Kalinzu is among those that offer cheap chimp trekking services. A chimpanzee trekking permit in Kalinzu costs US$ 50 for each person. It is far much cheaper than in Kibale where it costs US$ 200 for each foreign non-resident and US$ 150 for foreign residents. Potential tourists are advised to make early bookings for their permits although you can obtain one on arrival at the destination.

Other things to do in Kalinzu Central Forest Reserve

Wildlife viewing: Since the forest is located near Queen Elizabeth national park which is filled with various animals including buffaloes, elephants, leopards, lions and more, some of these cross to Kalinzu and they can be sighted there on a lucky day. Wild pigs and antelopes are also residents in the area.

Nature walks: apart from chimp trekking, a guided nature walks is worth doing on a trip to Kalinzu. It is a great opportunity to explore the forest on foot; finding waterfalls, watching the scenic surrounding, encountering the beautiful monkeys and countless birds. At Kishunja Hill Viewpoint, you are able to see Queen Elizabeth national parka and the Rwenzori Mountains. The guide tell tourists much about the forest including the ancient myths. There are flourishing plantations near the forest and they can as well be visited to see how the locals carry on their farming activities. Nature walks in Kainzu forest last for 4-6 hours. Remember to pack strong hiking boots, enough drinking water and energy giving snacks.

Bird watching: the checklist of bird species in Kalinzu exceeds 350. This is a good number to make a day memorable for a bird lover. On a birding safari in this forest, look out for Cuckoos, Turaco Great Blue, sunbirds and the Black and White Casqued hornbill.

Camping: Camping is one of the ways to best get a treat of the wild. At Kalinzu, there are delightful sites for camping. Spending a night in the middle of the forest brings you closest to nature. There is a chance to hear the sounds of or see nocturnal animals in Kalinzu forest such as bush babies, galago and pottos.

Getting to Kalinzu central forest reserve

The largest proportion of tourists that visit Kalinzu are from or to Queen Elizabeth national park. Their main goal for travel is wildlife viewing, boat cruise and relaxation which they surely enjoy to the fullest. From the park to the forest, it is a 40 minutes’ drive. If travelling from Kampala, the journey takes about 6 hours via Mbarara-Kasese Highway. 

Incase you would love to book a chimpanzee experience in Kalinzu forest this season, simply get in touch with our reservation team by sending an email on info@gorillaugandasafaribookings.com or call us directly on +256-775630809 or +256-701343598  to speak directly to our reservations team.