- Lunch
- Transport
- Professional driver/guide
- Park Entrance
- All activities mentioned in the itinerary
1
Day
Experience Chimpanzee Conservation at Ngamba Island: A Thrilling Day Tour
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Group Discount Available AvailableSaturdayMay 10, 2025SaturdayMay 10, 2025$145Available
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Group Discount Available AvailableSaturdayJun 7, 2025SaturdayJun 7, 2025$145Available
Trip Overview
Overview
Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary, located on the waters of Lake Victoria, offers an unforgettable experience for wildlife lovers. Established in 1998, the sanctuary serves as a refuge for orphaned and rescued chimpanzees, providing them with a safe, natural environment to thrive. Managed by the Chimpanzee Trust, a non-profit dedicated to chimpanzee welfare and conservation, the sanctuary covers 100 acres of lush rainforest, perfect for its inhabitants. Visitors are welcomed by the serene beauty of Africa's largest lake, setting the tone for a unique day trip.
Ngamba Island’s mission focuses on the care and rehabilitation of chimpanzees rescued from poaching, illegal trade, and habitat loss. The sanctuary is home to nearly 50 chimpanzees, each with a unique story of survival. The staff ensures their well-being through medical care, social integration, and enrichment activities. Educational programs raise awareness about chimpanzee conservation, offering visitors a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by these primates.
The sanctuary is 23 kilometers from Entebbe, accessible by a scenic boat ride on Lake Victoria. Upon arrival, knowledgeable guides introduce visitors to the chimpanzees and their care, with highlights including observing feeding times and exploring the island’s rich biodiversity.
This trip is exclusively tailored for Ugandan nationals. If you’re a non-Ugandan resident interested in this adventure, please contact us to craft a tailored package with rates specific to non-Ugandan nationals.
Trip Includes
Trip Excludes
- Personal expenses (e.g, tips)
- Travel insurance
- Optional activities not mentioned in the itinerary
Trip Highlights
Safari Highlights
- Guided Chimpanzee Viewing: Observe chimps during their afternoon feeding.
- Lake Victoria Cruise: Enjoy a scenic boat ride to and from the island.
- Educational Experience: Learn about chimpanzee conservation efforts and the sanctuary's mission.
- Relaxing Environment: Spend time in the tranquil surroundings of the island.
Itinerary
9:00 AM - Departure from Kampala
Your adventure begins at 9:00 AM as you set out from Kampala towards Entebbe. The drive to Entebbe takes approximately 1.5 hours, ensuring you arrive at the dock in time for your boat departure.
12:45 PM - Boat Departure from Entebbe
At 12:45 PM, board the speedboat that will whisk you across the tranquil waters of Lake Victoria to Ngamba Island, a journey of about 45 minutes.
1:30 PM - Arrival and Orientation at Ngamba Island
Upon arrival at Ngamba Island, you will be warmly welcomed by the sanctuary staff. Your visit starts with an orientation session at the visitor center, where you'll learn about the sanctuary's history, the rescued chimpanzees, and the critical conservation work being done here.
2:00 PM - Chimpanzee Viewing and Feeding
The highlight of the trip is observing the chimpanzees during their feeding times from a raised platform. You'll get to see these fascinating creatures up close as they interact with their environment and each other. This session also includes a chance to feed the chimps, an activity that allows you to connect more intimately with these remarkable primates.
2:30 PM - Lunch and Leisure Activities
Around 2:30 PM, enjoy a fresh lunch prepared on-site (pre-arranged as packed lunches are not permitted). Post-lunch, the island offers several leisure activities, including bird watching, swimming on the equator, and exploring the island's other wildlife. Alternatively, you can relax and take in the scenic beauty of Lake Victoria.
3:30 PM - Visit the Fishing Village
Later in the afternoon, there is an optional visit to a neighboring fishing village. This provides a glimpse into the local community life and culture around Lake Victoria, enriching your experience with insights into the island's human and wildlife inhabitants.
4:00 PM - Return to Entebbe
Your visit concludes with a late afternoon boat ride back to Entebbe, departing Ngamba Island around 4:00 PM. You’ll arrive back in Entebbe by 5:00 PM, ready for your transfer back to Kampala.
6:30 PM - Arrival in Kampala
Conclude your memorable day trip around 6:30 PM when you arrive back in Kampala, having had a fulfilling and educational experience at Ngamba Island. This itinerary ensures you make the most of your day by combining chimpanzee conservation awareness with the serene beauty of Lake Victoria.
Lunch
Trip FAQ
What is Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary?
Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary, located on Lake Victoria, Uganda, is a haven for orphaned and rescued chimpanzees. Established in 1998, the sanctuary provides a natural habitat for 49 chimps, offering them a safe environment where they can live and thrive. The sanctuary is managed by the Chimpanzee Trust, which focuses on the conservation of chimpanzees and their habitats through education, research, and community-based initiatives.
How do the chimpanzees at Ngamba Island spend their day?
The chimpanzees at Ngamba Island follow a routine similar to their wild counterparts. Their day typically includes feeding sessions, socializing, and engaging in enrichment activities that stimulate their natural behaviors. The sanctuary staff provides various forms of enrichment, such as puzzle feeders and interactive toys, to keep the chimps mentally and physically active. Visitors can observe these activities from a raised viewing platform.
How can visitors get involved in the feeding of chimpanzees?
Visitors to Ngamba Island have the unique opportunity to participate in the chimpanzee feeding process. During the designated feeding times, guests can help throw fruits and vegetables to the chimps from the viewing platform. This interactive experience not only delights the visitors but also helps them understand the dietary needs and behaviors of these intelligent primates.
What other wildlife can be seen at Ngamba Island?
In addition to the chimpanzees, Ngamba Island is home to a variety of other wildlife. Visitors may spot monitor lizards, a rich diversity of bird species, and even the occasional otter. The island's location on Lake Victoria also means that guests can enjoy bird watching and potentially see some of the 130 islands that dot the lake.
5. How does visiting Ngamba Island contribute to chimpanzee conservation?
By visiting Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary, tourists directly support the conservation efforts of the Chimpanzee Trust. The funds raised through tourism activities help provide care for the resident chimps and support broader conservation programs aimed at protecting wild chimpanzee populations. Additionally, visitor engagement and education play a crucial role in raising awareness about the plight of chimpanzees and the importance of preserving their natural habitats.
