Frequently asked Questions on chimpanzee trekking experiences
Frequently asked Questions on chimpanzee trekking experiences : Chimpanzee trekking experiences are next to mountain gorilla trekking in popularity and thrill and excitement for all those who engage in them. These experiences both take in in forested areas to see primates up close and personal. Well because they similar and mountain gorilla trekking is more popular; many people have questions about the trekking experience. In this piece of writing, we are going to answer some of the most common questions or rather frequently asked questions about chimpanzee trekking experiences especially in the east African region.
You should note that this list of questions covers the most asked questions, not necessarily the popular ones and not the exhaustive list of all questions.
The questions are; –
Can I have chimpanzee trekking and mountain gorilla trekking in the same forest on the trip?
Of course you can, you just have to resign your safari itinerary to accommodate both activities. You should note though that chimpanzees don’t stay in the same habitats so you will be moving from one habitat to another. Just factor that into your itinerary.
Which countries in East Africa have chimpanzees?
In East Africa Uganda, Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo are the most popular countries with chimpanzees with Uganda having the most of these creatures hence the nickname primate capital. On top of these three, you will find chimpanzees in Tanzania too.
Chimpanzee parks you should not miss to visit include Kibale national park in Uganda, Nyungwe National Park in Rwanda and Virunga national Park in the democratic republic of Congo.
Can a mountain gorilla permit work for chimpanzee trekking?
Absolutely not, these are two different activities with separate permits for each. So, you have to get the respective permits for the activity you are doing at a particular time.
When is the best time for chimpanzee trekking?
Anytime of the year is good for trekking and you can spot the chimpanzees, however almost 90% of the trekkers will trek in the sunny or dry season because the trekking trails are more bearable then.
What’s the age limit for chimpanzee trekking?
The age limit for chimpanzee trekking is 15 years and above. This means that anyone 15 years and above can trek the chimpanzees.
Are chimpanzee trekking rules the same as the mountain gorilla rules?
They are quite similar and they include but not limited to; – not using flash photography, keeping a 10 m distance between you and the chimpanzees, not harming the chimpanzees in any way, don’t feed the chimpanzees, don’t drink, eat, smoke, cough or squeeze in the presence of the chimpanzees.
These are many more rules, your tour operator and trekking guide will be in position to communicate more.
How much does chimpanzee trekking cost?
In the east African region, chimpanzee trekking experiences will cost between 300 USD dollars to 150 USD dollars. Prices vary depending on the chimpanzee park.
Can you do other fun activities on a chimpanzee trekking experience?
Yes, you can and some of these other fun activities include bird watching, nature walks, forest walks, butterfly watching, nature cycling and many more.
How long is a chimpanzee trekking experience?
Usually the trek, itself will take between 6 – 8 hours total of the ascent and descent and you will spend an hour with the chimpanzees. The specific times will be determined by the place your having your chimpanzee trek at.
Do I need specific physical training for chimpanzee trekking?
Not really, the good thing. Chimpanzees live in fairly flat grounded habitats compared to the gorillas, so you don’t really have to special physical training but you have to be able to endure a 6 – 8 hour walk.
