In the wild, chimpanzees share up to 98.7% of our DNA. But it’s not until you stand just meters away from them—watching as they laugh, squabble, groom, or beg for bananas—that you feel the deep, almost eerie connection.
Welcome to Ngamba Island, Uganda’s leading primate sanctuary, where rescued chimps get a second chance at life—and visitors get a rare, deeply moving glimpse into theirs.
For the ethically-minded traveler, this isn’t just another excursion. It’s a heart-thumping, soul-stirring encounter with our closest cousins—on an island that’s doing conservation right.
Key Takeaways
- Ngamba Island is home to over 50 rescued chimpanzees and is managed by a pioneering conservation trust.
- Accessible via speedboat or helicopter from Entebbe, the island is ideal for day trips or overnight eco-stays.
- Unique activities include chimp feeding, forest walks, volunteering, and a “Caregiver for the Day” program.
- Every visit helps fund rescue, rehabilitation, and public education efforts.
- Perfect add-on to a Uganda safari itinerary for travelers craving ethical, emotional wildlife experiences.
What is Ngamba Island?
Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary sits on 100 acres of tropical forest in Lake Victoria, just a short boat ride from Entebbe. It was established in 1998 by the Chimpanzee Sanctuary & Wildlife Conservation Trust (CSWCT) to provide a permanent, safe home for orphaned chimpanzees rescued from poaching or the illegal pet trade.
Today, over 50 chimps live here—some with trauma, some with stories that will break your heart, and others thriving thanks to the extraordinary care of the sanctuary staff.
The island is closed to mass tourism. This is not a zoo. It’s a refuge. And one of the most ethically-grounded experiences you’ll find in East Africa.
How to Get There
Reaching Ngamba is part of the magic. The most common route is a 45- to 50-minute speedboat ride across Lake Victoria from Entebbe, though slower motorized canoes are available for those who prefer to linger on the water. You can also charter a private helicopter if you’re short on time—or simply craving that cinematic entrance.
All visits must be pre-booked, either directly through the Ngamba Island Reservations Office or via trusted safari operators (like us).
What to Do on Ngamba Island
1. Chimpanzee Feeding
Stand on a raised platform as chimps emerge from the forest during scheduled feeding times. Their personalities shine: some demand attention, others play coy, but all remind you just how human they seem.
2. Forest Walks & Infant Integration
Depending on your tour type and season, you may be able to join a forest walk with juvenile chimps or assist in the Infant Integration Program—designed to slowly reintroduce young chimps into established groups.
3. Caregiver for the Day
For overnight guests, this immersive experience lets you work side-by-side with sanctuary staff—preparing food, cleaning enclosures, monitoring behavior. It’s hands-on, heartfelt, and unforgettable. (Medical clearance is required.)
4. Sunset Cruises & Fishing
Round out your island stay with a sunset cruise or a half- or full-day fishing trip. Cast for Nile Perch or Tilapia while taking in views of scattered fishing villages and Lake Victoria’s endless horizon.
5. Volunteer for a Month
Ngamba also offers a 4-week volunteering program for those who want to go deep. Live on the island. Work with the chimps. Become part of the conservation story.
Staying on Ngamba Island
Ngamba Eco-Lodge offers luxurious, private tented cottages with lake views, hot showers, solar power, and a sense of complete escape. At night, the island is still—except for the rustle of leaves and the occasional chimp calling across the canopy.
It’s perfect for travelers who want more than just a day trip. (Overnights also grant access to special experiences like caregiver programs.)
When to Go
Ngamba Island is open year-round. The best time to visit is during the dry seasons: December to February and June to August, when Lake Victoria is calmer and activities run more smoothly.
Planning a larger Uganda safari? These months also coincide with the best time for gorilla trekking, so it’s easy to combine both experiences into a single trip.
Combine Ngamba with Gorilla Trekking or National Parks
Ngamba makes a beautiful pre- or post-safari add-on. Start your journey with chimps and end with gorillas in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest—or the reverse. Either way, the contrast is powerful.
We often pair Ngamba with:
- Gorilla trekking in Uganda
- Queen Elizabeth National Park for tree-climbing lions
- Murchison Falls National Park for Nile cruises
- Lake Mburo National Park for zebras and walking safaris
Need help sorting logistics? Check out our East African Tourist Visa guide to simplify your border planning.
Ngamba Island is a place that lingers. It’s not flashy. It’s not crowded. But it’s deeply, unforgettably human. You leave not just with photos, but with a feeling—a quiet awe at how close we are to the wild, and how far we’ve come from it.
If you’d like to include Ngamba Island in your Uganda itinerary, request a quote and we’ll help design a journey that’s just right for you.
FAQ: Visiting Ngamba Island
Is Ngamba Island suitable for families?
Yes, although some activities (like forest walks with chimps) are age-restricted. Families often enjoy the half-day tours and overnight stays.
How much does it cost to visit?
Day trips typically range from $100–$150. Overnight packages start around $600 and include meals and lodging.
Is it ethical to visit a sanctuary like this?
Absolutely. Ngamba is a non-profit, and your visit helps fund chimp care, anti-poaching education, and habitat protection.
Do I need any vaccinations?
Yellow fever vaccination is required. For some programs, such as “Caregiver for the Day,” additional medical clearance may be needed.
Can I swim in the lake?
No. Due to bilharzia and the sanctuary’s focus on conservation, swimming is not allowed.
