Ngamba Island Sanctuary
Ngamba Island: A Safe Haven for Orphaned Chimpanzees
Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary is a forested island on Lake Victoria that gives orphaned and rescued chimpanzees a second chance. Most arrived as infants, confiscated from illegal pet and bushmeat trades, and they now live in a large, protected forest.
The sanctuary is a short boat ride from Entebbe. Therefore, it is a perfect half-day trip at the start or end of a Uganda safari, and an excellent introduction to chimpanzee conservation.
What to Expect on Ngamba Island
The highlight is feeding time, when the chimps come out of the forest to a viewing platform. Caregivers explain each chimp’s story and character, and you can watch them interact, squabble and play. Because the chimps cannot be released into the wild, the sanctuary also educates visitors about the threats wild chimpanzees face.
Caregiver experience and overnight stays
For a deeper visit, you can join caregivers for a day of behind-the-scenes work, or stay overnight in the island’s eco-tents with the sound of the lake around you.
Getting to Ngamba Island
Speedboats from Entebbe take around 45 minutes, while slower boats take longer. Trips are timed to match the chimps’ feeding schedule.
Ngamba Island or Kibale?
Ngamba is a sanctuary, not a wild population. To see wild chimpanzees, add Kibale Forest or Budongo Forest to your trip, or see our chimpanzee tracking safaris.
Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary: Fees and Official Information
Entry fees, permit prices and park rules for Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary are set by the Uganda Wildlife Authority. Because rates change from time to time, we always confirm the latest fees when you book and show them clearly in your quote.
Want help planning? Talk to our team about your dates, budget and travel style.
