Gishwati-Mukura National Park is home to a community of 25 semi-habituated chimpanzees. While they know and are comfortable with the trackers, they are still weary of strangers. As a visitor, you’ll be an important part of the habituation process. At this stage, sightings are of variable quality, but seeing wild primates is an exciting experience and you’ll probably have the encounter to yourself.
Wildlife Highlights
The chimps share the forest with l’Hoest’s and golden monkeys, both endemic to the Albertine Rift. Side-striped jackals can sometimes be seen trotting on the trails, and you might also see a shy black-fronted duiker scurrying off in the undergrowth. Also keep your eyes open for the odd-looking Rwenzori three-horned chameleon. Other forest creatures include Rwenzori sun squirrel, servaline genet and African civet.
Best Time for Wildlife Viewing
The best time for chimpanzee trekking and general forest hikes is during the Dry season (June to September). Not only is this the most pleasant time to be out in the forest, but less-slippery trails make hiking a lot easier.