Kibale National Park

Overview

Kibale Forest National Park stands out among safari destinations. It is the top choice for chimpanzee trekking safaris. The 1,500 chimps are among the 13 species of primates living in the 206 square miles (793 km²) of the Western Ugandan tropical forest.

But the park wasn't always valued for its wildlife and biodiversity. Back in 1932, it was logged by the British for hardwood. It was declared a forest reserve in 1948, but the wood harvesting continued. Official logging programs concluded in 1969, but illegal logging carried on. 

Kibale was declared a national park in 1993 to protect the animals and their habitat. It was a vital step in conserving the fragile ecosystem, allowing the region to begin to heal and, later, thrive.

1993 also introduced proper monitoring of the Kanyanchu chimpanzees in the biologically diverse region. The system helps protect the chimps from poachers while increasing the success of visitors spotting these amazing animals. The more success visitors have at spotting, the more they want to come.

Tourism helps Kibale and Uganda in many ways:

• It provides revenue for anti-poaching security.

• It brings income to neighboring communities, helping them see the value in keeping Kibale pristine. 

• It helps fund conservation education amongst communities and visitors. 

• It creates funding for clinics. Raising people's health in the area helps protect primates from human illnesses.

Visiting Kibale is a rare and unique opportunity to view chimpanzees in their natural home. As visitors create memories, the money spent on the adventure helps secure a future for these endangered animals and the forest's other wildlife.