Primate safaris in East Africa : East Africa is a haven for primate lovers, with a wealth of primate species that are found nowhere else in the world. Primate safaris in East Africa offer a unique opportunity to get up close and personal with these fascinating animals in their natural habitat. From the iconic mountain gorillas of Uganda and Rwanda to the elusive golden monkeys of Rwanda, there is no shortage of primates to discover on a primate safari in East Africa.

Uganda is home to the highest number of primate species in Africa, with 13 species found in Kibale National Park alone. Kibale is known for its chimpanzees, with the park offering the best chimpanzee trekking experience in Africa. Chimpanzee trekking involves following a group of habituated chimpanzees through the forest and observing their behavior from a safe distance.

In addition to chimpanzees, Kibale National Park is also home to other primates such as red-tailed monkeys, black and white colobus monkeys, grey-cheeked mangabeys, and blue monkeys. Visitors can also take part in a primate walk where they can see up to five different species of primates in a single walk.

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in Uganda is another primate hotspot, famous for its mountain gorillas. Bwindi is home to over 400 mountain gorillas, accounting for over half of the world’s population. Gorilla trekking in Bwindi is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, offering visitors the chance to see these incredible animals up close in their natural habitat.

In Rwanda, Volcanoes National Park is famous for its mountain gorillas and golden monkeys. Gorilla trekking in Rwanda is similar to Uganda, with visitors following a group of habituated gorillas through the forest. Golden monkey trekking is a unique experience, with visitors following a group of habituated golden monkeys as they swing through the trees.

Nyungwe Forest National Park in Rwanda is another primate hotspot, with 13 species of primates found in the park. Chimpanzee trekking is the main attraction, with visitors following a group of habituated chimpanzees through the forest. Nyungwe is also home to other primates such as black and white colobus monkeys, grey-cheeked mangabeys, and red-tailed monkeys.

In Tanzania, Gombe Stream National Park is famous for its chimpanzees, with the park being the location of Jane Goodall’s groundbreaking chimpanzee research. Visitors can follow a group of habituated chimpanzees through the forest and observe their behavior from a safe distance. Mahale Mountains National Park is another primate hotspot in Tanzania, with the park being home to a large population of chimpanzees.

Primate safaris in East Africa offer visitors a unique opportunity to get up close and personal with some of the world’s most fascinating animals. With a range of primate species to discover and an abundance of national parks and reserves to explore, a primate safari in East Africa is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that should not be missed.

How much do primate safaris cost in East AFRICA

The cost of primate safaris in East Africa can vary depending on several factors, including the country you are visiting, the specific national park or reserve you are exploring, the number of days you are spending on safari, and the level of accommodation you choose.

In Uganda, the cost of a chimpanzee trekking permit in Kibale National Park is $200 per person, while a gorilla trekking permit in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park costs $700 per person. Accommodation in Uganda ranges from budget options at around $50 per night to luxury lodges costing over $1,000 per night.

In Rwanda, a gorilla trekking permit in Volcanoes National Park costs $1,500 per person, while a golden monkey trekking permit costs $100 per person. Accommodation in Rwanda ranges from budget options at around $50 per night to luxury lodges costing over $1,500 per night.

Primate safaris in East Africa
Gorilla Trekking in Volcanoes

In Tanzania, a chimpanzee trekking permit in Gombe Stream National Park costs $100 per person, while accommodation ranges from budget options at around $50 per night to luxury lodges costing over $1,000 per night.

It’s worth noting that primate safaris are typically more expensive than traditional game drives, due to the limited number of permits available for chimpanzee and gorilla trekking, and the high demand for these experiences. Additionally, the cost of a primate safari can be affected by factors such as the time of year you are visiting and whether you are traveling independently or as part of a guided tour.

Overall, primate safaris in East Africa can be expensive, but they offer a unique and unforgettable experience that is well worth the investment for primate enthusiasts and wildlife lovers alike.

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