One of the most popular places in Uganda for chimpanzee tracking is Kyambura Gorge, also called Chambura Gorge or the Valley of Apes. It is located in the northeastern part of Queen Elizabeth National Park.
The gorge stretches 11 km and is about 100 meters deep, lying within the Kyambura Wildlife Reserve, which covers 156 square kilometers.
The Kyambura River drains the gorge and is known for its scenery and wildlife, including birds, primates, and other animals. It connects to the Kazinga Channel through the Kyambura Wildlife Reserve.
Wildlife & Primates in Kyambura Gorge
Kyambura Gorge is home to many primate species, making it a truly remarkable natural treasure. Visitors on a Uganda safari in Kyambura Gorge can see red colobus monkeys, chimpanzees, olive baboons, red-tailed monkeys, vervet monkeys, and black-and-white colobus monkeys.
Birds in Kyambura Gorge
Kyambura Gorge is a special birdwatching location, hosting a variety of bird species. Some of the key bird species visitors can expect to see include the African skimmer, African finfoot, black-rumped buttonquail, African broadbill, pink-backed pelican, papyrus gonolek, blue-headed bee-eater, martial eagle, flamingos, bar-tailed godwit, white-winged warbler, and falcons.
Other birds that find refuge in Kyambura Gorge include the black bee-eater, Chapin’s flycatcher, Verreaux’s eagle owl, and white-tailed lark.
Activities in Kyambura Gorge
Chimpanzee Trekking Adventures
The main reason most visitors come to Kyambura Gorge is to track chimpanzees. With an 80% chance of sightings, this activity is best enjoyed in the morning or afternoon.
Chimpanzee tracking in Kyambura takes about two to three hours, including an hour of direct interaction. While tracking chimpanzees, visitors may also see other primates such as blue colobus, red-tailed, and olive baboon monkeys, along with various bird species and different plant life.
Bird-watching
Kyambura Gorge is one of the best places for bird-watching, offering amazing views of many bird species, especially forest birds.
Some of the birds found in Kyambura Gorge include the African finfoot, martial eagle, black and blue-headed bee-eaters, white-winged warbler, papyrus canary, flamingos, black-rumped buttonquail, and bar-tailed godwit.
Nature Walks
Nature lovers on safari in Kyambura Gorge can enjoy some of Uganda’s best walking experiences. Guided by experienced and knowledgeable guides, visitors have the chance to admire the gorge’s natural beauty and observe the diverse plant and animal life that live there.
This is the perfect opportunity to explore Kyambura Gorge’s hidden gems and get close to nature.
Related Article: Kigezi Wildlife Reserve – Uganda’s Sanctuary for Antelopes, Primates & Birdlife
