Chimpanzee Trekking Tours & Safaris

Tracking Vs Trekking Vs Habituation

Chimpanzee safari tours can fall into one of 3 categories: tracking, trekking, or habituation. Oftentimes these terms are used interchangeably when discussing a chimpanzee safari, but each has a distinct meaning:

Chimpanzee Trekking

Chimp trekking is the most common experience of the 3 and involves a hike, led by an expert guide, through the forest to find and observe wild chimpanzees. Once found, guests spend approximately an hour watching and following habituated chimps (who are used to the presence of humans but still wild) before returning to their accommodation.

Chimpanzee Tracking

Often used interchangeably with chimpanzee trekking, a tracking experience does differ slightly. Chimpanzee tracking refers to the process of using fresh signs of primate presence (such as nests, calls, or footprints) as a guide to locate their current position. Typically, the guide will track chimps beforehand to ensure an easier trekking journey for guests, while some parks may allow visitors to participate in the tracking process.

Chimpanzee Habituation Experience

Chimp habituation experiences are longer and more immersive than trekking and tracking activities. It refers to the process of gradually adjusting chimps to the presence of humans around them and, on average, takes about 2 years to complete. Fortunately, visitors will only spend around 4 to 6 hours with a chimpanzee group undergoing habituation. During this experience, guests gain raw, in-depth insights into chimp behaviour, and help contribute to research and conservation efforts.

Gorilla Vs Chimpanzee Trekking

Both gorilla trekking and chimpanzee trekking tours offer incredible, soul-stirring primate encounters. Although they're quite similar activities, there are several ways in which they differ:

• Chimp trekking involves more movement than gorilla trekking, as chimpanzees are more active, move quickly, and are found high up in trees. Unlike gorillas, who are ground-dwelling and slower paced, guests will need to follow chimps for a while before settling down to observe them.
• The average time for a chimp trek is less than a gorilla trek, with the former lasting around 2 to 4 hours, while the latter sometimes going up to 6 hours.
• Chimpanzees are often found in larger groups (around 50 to 100 individuals), while gorillas move around in smaller groups of 5 to 30 individuals.
• Gorilla behaviour is more subdued and calmer than chimps, who tend to be more social, noisy, and constantly on the move – be prepared for playful fights, loud calls, and tree-swinging.
• Chimpanzee trekking tours take place in tropical rainforests, while gorilla treks occur in high-altitude rainforests or lowland tropical forests.

Best Time For Chimpanzee Safari Tours

Technically, a chimpanzee safari can be enjoyed year-round, but the best time to go chimpanzee trekking ultimately hinges on weather conditions, trail accessibility, and chimp behaviour. Generally, the dry seasons of any African destination will offer the best trekking conditions. But don't discount the wet seasons, as the rainy period has a few enticing advantages.

The dry season typically runs from June to October and then again from December to February, depending on which region you're visiting. It's considered the best time for chimpanzee trekking as the trails are drier and less muddy, visibility is better as there's less dense vegetation, and chimp sightings are more reliable as they tend to move in predictable patterns.

Shoulder season, otherwise known as the wet season, goes from March to May and then for a shorter period in November. The trek might be a little more challenging due to more muddy conditions, and chimps are usually harder to track around this time, but there are a few perks for the brave adventurer. There are fewer tourists about in the wet season, lending to a more exclusive, intimate experience, while the lush greenery makes the forest easier on the eye, and, naturally, the costs are lower in the off-peak season.

Add-On Destinations For A Big 5 & Chimpanzee Safari

Why restrict yourself to just one life-changing experience on your trip to Africa? A chimp trekking experience pairs perfectly with a classic wildlife safari in some of the continent's most iconic destinations. Uganda, Rwanda, Tanzania, and Congo are the places you're likely to visit for a chimpanzee safari, and each of these destinations is perfectly located to add on a visit to some of Africa's wildest and most beautiful landscapes.

The easy logistics make adding classic safaris in places like the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Ruaha National Park, Akagera National Park, and Queen Elizabeth National Park a seamless addition to your itinerary. Tick off all of Africa's iconic animals in one flawless trip.

Ready To Plan Your Chimpanzee Trekking Adventure?

Our Africa Safari Experts use their decades of first-hand experience and knowledge to take the guesswork and hassle out of planning your greatest adventure. Get in touch and let us help you plan an epic journey you won't soon forget.