Primates in Uganda

Primates in Uganda – A Guide for Safari Enthusiasts

Uganda is a hidden gem when it comes to African safaris. While it may not be as well-known as some other safari destinations, this small landlocked country is home to remarkable biodiversity. From thrilling big game encounters and mountain hikes to rich cultural experiences, Uganda also offers a unique opportunity to explore one of its most outstanding features — its primates.

Here is a detailed look at the primates of Uganda you can encounter on your Uganda safari.

Mountain Gorillas – The Star Attraction of Uganda Safaris

Mountain gorillas are the highlight of most primate safaris in Uganda. These endangered great apes are found in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. Uganda has approximately 21 habituated gorilla families available for trekking, with only 80 gorilla permits issued daily by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA), ensuring an exclusive and responsible wildlife experience.

Aside from gorilla trekking, visitors can enjoy cultural encounters with the Batwa pygmies, golden monkey tracking, bird watching, hiking, and game viewing. Uganda is one of only three countries where mountain gorillas can be seen in the wild, along with Rwanda (Volcanoes National Park) and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (Virunga National Park).

Chimpanzees – Uganda’s Closest Relatives

Uganda is home to around 5,000 chimpanzees, with Kibale National Park offering the best chimpanzee trekking experience. Known as the “Primate Capital of the World,” Kibale boasts 13 species of primates, making it a top destination for primate lovers.

Chimpanzee trekking and the full-day chimpanzee habituation experience start at 8:00 AM. Other excellent locations to track chimpanzees include Budongo Forest (Murchison Falls NP), Kyambura Gorge (Queen Elizabeth NP), Kalinzu Forest, Semuliki National Park, Ngamba Island Sanctuary, and the Entebbe Zoo.

Golden Monkeys – Rare and Playful Primates

Golden monkeys are another rare primate species found in Uganda, Rwanda, and the DRC. In Uganda, they are only found in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. These striking monkeys are a subspecies of blue monkeys and are known for their golden-orange fur and black limbs.

Golden monkeys live in groups of 30–80 individuals and are led by a dominant male. They are fast-moving and often difficult to photograph, but trekking them through the bamboo forests with an expert guide is an unforgettable experience.

Olive Baboons – Common and Widespread

Olive baboons are the most commonly seen primates in Uganda and can be spotted in many national parks including Queen Elizabeth, Murchison Falls, Kibale, Semuliki, and Lake Mburo. These large primates live in groups of up to 150 and are omnivores that thrive in savannahs, forests, and open plains.

Black-and-White Colobus Monkeys

These striking, tree-dwelling monkeys are characterized by their long white tails and black bodies. They can be found in riverine forests and wooded savannahs across Uganda, including Kibale, Semuliki, and Entebbe Botanical Gardens. They are often seen in family groups and are easy to photograph.

Blue Monkeys

Despite their name, blue monkeys are not actually blue but have a subtle bluish-gray appearance. These forest monkeys are mostly found in Murchison Falls and Lake Mburo National Parks, preferring humid montane and bamboo forests. They live in small social groups and feed primarily on fruits, leaves, and invertebrates.

De Brazza’s Monkeys

These elusive swamp-dwelling monkeys are identifiable by their grey fur, white beard, and reddish back. Found in Semuliki and Mount Elgon National Parks, they live in small groups and communicate through tree-shaking and vocalizations.

Grey-Cheeked Mangabeys

These shaggy-haired primates live in lowland and mid-altitude rainforests such as Kibale, Semuliki, and Mabira Forest. They are currently undergoing habituation to allow for future tracking experiences by visitors.

L’Hoest’s Monkeys

Also known as mountain monkeys, L’Hoest’s monkeys are found in Bwindi Impenetrable, Kibale, Budongo, and Queen Elizabeth National Parks. These small primates live in montane forests and feed on a mix of plants, insects, and occasionally small animals.

Patas Monkeys

Known as the fastest primates on earth, patas monkeys are terrestrial animals typically seen in savannahs and semi-arid regions. In Uganda, they inhabit Murchison Falls, Kidepo Valley, and Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve.

Red Colobus Monkeys

Closely related to black-and-white colobus monkeys, red colobus monkeys are found in Kibale and Semuliki National Parks. These gregarious primates live in large groups and feed mainly on leaves and fruits.

Red-Tailed Monkeys

These small, colorful monkeys are commonly seen during forest walks in Kibale, Bwindi, Semuliki, and Queen Elizabeth National Parks. Red-tailed monkeys use expressive gestures and facial movements to communicate.

Bush Babies (Galagos)

Bush babies are nocturnal, small-sized primates known for their large eyes and excellent night vision. They are widespread across Uganda’s national parks and feed mainly on insects and fruits. Their loud cries can often be heard during nighttime forest walks.

Pottos

Pottos are slow-moving, nocturnal primates that inhabit Uganda’s forests, especially Kibale, Bwindi, and Queen Elizabeth National Parks. They feed on insects and plant matter and are active at night.

Where to See Primates in Uganda

Bwindi Impenetrable National Park

Located in southwestern Uganda, Bwindi is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to about half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas. The forest is one of the most biologically diverse in Africa, harboring over 400 plant species and numerous primate species.

Kibale National Park

Known for its chimpanzees and high primate diversity, Kibale is ideal for chimp trekking and bird watching. It is often included in Uganda safari itineraries for its accessibility and rich biodiversity.

Mgahinga Gorilla National Park

Aside from gorilla trekking, Mgahinga is the only place in Uganda where you can see golden monkeys, making it a prime destination for double primate trekking.

Other Parks to Spot Primates:

Queen Elizabeth National Park
Murchison Falls National Park
Semuliki National Park
Budongo Forest
Kalinzu Forest
Lake Mburo National Park
Mount Elgon National Park
Pian Upe Wildlife Reserve
Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary

Plan Your Uganda Primate Safari

With over 20 primate species, Uganda is undoubtedly one of the best primate trekking destinations in Africa. Whether you’re drawn to the awe-inspiring mountain gorillas of Bwindi, the energetic chimps of Kibale, or the rare golden monkeys of Mgahinga, Uganda primate safaris promise an unforgettable wildlife experience.