A New Chapter for Uganda’s Primate Safaris
For decades, travelers and conservationists have wondered: Do chimpanzees really live in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park? The answer is now official yes, they do.In mid-2025, the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA), in partnership with the Jane Goodall Institute, Greater Virunga Transboundary Collaboration (GVTC), and other conservation bodies, completed a historic chimpanzee census in Bwindi, and the results are in: Bwindi is home to wild chimpanzees.
This exciting discovery adds a fresh dimension to one of Africa’s most famous national parks, known worldwide as a mountain gorilla sanctuary.
📍 Why Is This Discovery So Important?
Bwindi has long been famous for its mountain gorillas hosting about half of the world’s remaining population but the forest’s dense cover and difficult terrain made it hard to confirm chimpanzee presence for years. Now, with scientific evidence gathered during a month-long census, chimpanzees are no longer a rumor but a recognized part of Bwindi’s biodiversity.
This finding:
Confirms the presence of a second great ape species in Bwindi
Strengthens conservation value for the park
Opens up potential for new tourism activities focused on chimp tracking in the future
How Was the Census Done?
The chimpanzee count was part of a larger great ape census that included gorilla population surveys. Over 60 trained researchers and rangers, led by UWA and conservation partners, walked through all four main tourism sectors Buhoma, Ruhija, Rushaga, and Nkuringo.
Using GPS devices and a method called Marked Nest Count (MNC), they recorded chimpanzee nests, droppings, vocalizations, and signs of presence. These findings were then cross checked with ecological data to confirm the animals’ long-term residence in the park.
Though the exact number of chimpanzees is yet to be released, the confirmation alone is a game changer.
What This Means for Safari Travelers
This discovery elevates Bwindi’s status from a gorilla only destination to a multi primate hotspot.
Here’s why that matters for you:
More value in one visit: Guests can now explore areas that host both mountain gorillas and wild chimpanzees.
Wildlife photography and storytelling: Bwindi is now one of the few places on Earth where travelers may (in future) encounter two great ape species in a single forest.
Increased focus on conservation tourism: Your visit will help fund further monitoring and habitat protection for chimpanzees and gorillas alike.
Can You See the Chimps Now?
Not yet but soon.
Currently, chimpanzee trekking experiences are concentrated in Kibale National Park, Budongo Forest, and Kyambura Gorge. However, following this discovery, Bwindi could eventually open selected areas for chimp trekking, once Uganda Wildlife Authority completes further research and habitat assessments.
At Traford Safaris, we’re closely following updates and will keep our guests informed as new opportunities emerge.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next?
Final results from the chimpanzee and gorilla census are expected later in 2025.
Conservation agencies will use the data to:
Develop habitat protection plans
Possibly introduce low-impact tourism trails
Train more guides for multi-primate experiences
Bwindi will likely receive greater funding for research and biodiversity protection
Traford Safaris’ Take
This is one of the most exciting wildlife discoveries in Uganda in years. At Traford Safaris, we see this as a chance to offer even more enriching, conservation focused itineraries for travelers who want to experience Africa’s biodiversity at its finest.
We’re already working on new safari packages that combine:
Chimpanzee trekking in Kibale or Budongo
Visits to conservation projects tied to the new findings
Stay tuned!
Planning your primate safari in Uganda?
Traford Safaris will help you design a personalized journey to explore Uganda’s iconic mountain gorillas, chimpanzees, and everything in between.
👉 Contact us to start planning your Bwindi adventure today.
