Chimpanzees are a famous animal species in Kibale National Park, living in this tropical rain-forest. Chimpanzees in Kibale National Park are well known worldwide, and the park is recorded as one of the best tourist destinations, receiving many trekkers throughout the year.
Many visitors come during the dry season when the skies are clear and the land is dry, making it easier to explore the world of chimpanzees. During this time of year, these species depend on insects, leaves, and sometimes meat, though rarely. Note that prices are slightly higher during the dry season due to high demand.
In the wet season, it is the opposite—fewer visitors come, but chimpanzees are more active as food, especially fruits, becomes abundant, which is their favorite meal.
There are over 1,500 chimpanzees in Kibale, more than in any other park in Uganda. In East Africa, it is considered to have the largest number of primates, with more than 13 species in total, including olive baboons, vervet monkeys, and red colobus monkeys.
The more you learn about the chimps, the more they will surprise you. They are almost like humans, walking upright with strength said to be twice that of a strong human.
A fully grown male chimp weighs around 35 to 70 kilograms and is about three meters tall, while adult females weigh between 26 and 50 kilograms with a height of about two to four meters.
Their appearance may sometimes scare children, which is why chimpanzee trekking is only for tourists aged 15 and above who can manage the sight of their hairless faces.
The skin on their faces, hands, and feet ranges from pink to very dark, though young ones have lighter skin that darkens as they grow.
The gestation period for common chimpanzees is eight months, and newborns weigh about 1.8 kilograms. They are very weak and always cling to their mother’s belly as she moves. They stay with their mothers for about two to six years, riding on their backs and learning daily survival skills.
To be considered adults, male chimps must be 16 years old, while females mature at 13. Their lifespan is around 50 years in the wild, and those in captivity can live for over 60 years.
Visit Kibale National Park in Uganda with these recommended Uganda chimpanzee companies or inquire with us below to book your tour directly through this website.
