What are the specific timings for the morning and afternoon sessions?

The morning session typically departs around 7:00 AM, with the boat returning at 11:45 AM. The afternoon session usually departs around 11:00 AM, with the boat returning at 4:00 PM. Specific timings will be confirmed upon booking.

Can I interact directly with the chimpanzees on Ngamba Island?

Direct interaction with the chimpanzees is generally not permitted for day visitors to ensure the animals' well-being and to maintain their wild instincts. You will observe them from a safe, elevated viewing platform during feeding times.

What kind of birds can I expect to see during the boat trip and on the island?

During the boat trip, you might spot cattle egrets, cormorants, and fish eagles. On Ngamba Island, the birdlife is rich and includes black-headed weavers, spur-winged lapwings, African open-billed storks, Sacred ibises, Egyptian geese, and various kingfisher species.

1 Day Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Tour | Lake Victoria Sanctuary

Embark on a meaningful 1-day Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Tour, venturing to Lake Victoria’s renowned chimpanzee sanctuary where rescued chimpanzees find a safe and permanent home, offering a unique opportunity to observe and learn about these intelligent primates.

Overview

Itinerary

Includes/Excludes

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FAQs

Overview

Discover the heartwarming world of rescued chimpanzees on our exclusive 1-day Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Tour.

This unique excursion takes you across the picturesque waters of Lake Victoria to Ngamba Island, a dedicated sanctuary for chimpanzees rescued from the illegal pet trade and poaching. Here, these fortunate primates thrive, forming strong bonds with each other and their dedicated human caretakers.

This trip offers a profound insight into chimpanzee conservation, allowing you to observe their playful interactions, feeding habits, and daily lives up close from an elevated viewing platform.

Beyond the captivating chimpanzees, the journey across Lake Victoria provides stunning views, opportunities for birdwatching, and a glimpse into the daily lives of local fishermen.

Perfect for nature lovers, families, and anyone interested in wildlife conservation, this 1-day Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Tour is an enriching and unforgettable experience, connecting you with Uganda’s incredible primate heritage.

Highlights

Morning: Scenic speedboat journey across Lake Victoria to Ngamba Island.
Late Morning: Arrival at Ngamba Island, sanctuary briefing, and chimpanzee feeding observation.
Afternoon: Exploration of the sanctuary's facilities, including the clinic and food store, with an optional "behind-the-scenes" food preparation experience.
Late Afternoon / Evening: Return boat trip with an optional stop at the Equator, before transfer back to your accommodation.

Morning :

Departure to Ngamba Island and Lake Victoria Cruise

Your 1-day Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Tour begins with a pick-up from your accommodation in Kampala or Entebbe by our professional driver-guide.

You will then head to a pier on Lake Victoria to board a speedboat, setting off at either 7:00 AM (for the morning session) or 11:00 AM (for the afternoon session). The approximately 45-minute boat ride across Lake Victoria is a scenic journey in itself.

As you glide over the calm waters, you'll observe local fishermen in their traditional canoes, going about their daily routines.

Keep an eye out for various bird species that frequent the lake, such as cattle egrets, cormorants, and majestic fish eagles.

Late Morning :

Arrival, Sanctuary Introduction, and Chimpanzee Feeding

Upon your arrival at Ngamba Island, you'll be greeted by the fantastic view of this lush sanctuary.

Take a moment to spot monitor lizards basking along the water's edge and a variety of vibrant bird species, including black-headed weavers, spur-winged lapwings, African open-billed storks, Sacred ibises, Egyptian geese, and kingfishers.

You will then be transferred to the Visitors' Center for a comprehensive briefing on the history of Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary and the important conservation work carried out there.

Following the briefing, you will be offered a refreshing cup of tea. Between 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM, you will be led to an elevated viewing platform. This is a truly captivating experience as you witness the chimpanzee caregivers conducting the supplementary feeding.

Observe the rescued chimpanzees up close as they eagerly gather for their meal, displaying their individual personalities, playing, and relaxing in their island home.

You'll also learn about the diverse plant and tree types that contribute to the island's ecosystem.

Afternoon :

Exploring the Sanctuary and Behind-the-Scenes Insights

After the captivating chimpanzee feeding session, your tour continues with a visit to the various essential centers on the island.

You'll be shown the chimpanzee food store, where caregivers will explain the proper methods of feeding and the types of nutritious foods provided, such as pineapples, oranges, tomatoes, apples, watermelons, passion fruits, jackfruits, carrots, cabbage, and cassava.

While these supplementary foods are vital, the sanctuary's management emphasizes the importance of the chimpanzees' natural foraging activities within the forest.

You will also visit the chimpanzee clinic, gaining insight into the animals' care, the different treatments available, and their current health status.

For those attending the afternoon session, there's a unique opportunity to assist in food preparation as part of a "behind-the-scenes" activity, under the close supervision of a caregiver. This offers a deeper appreciation for the dedicated work involved in caring for these primates.

Late Afternoon / Evening :

Return Journey and Equator Stop

At 11:45 AM for the morning session or 4:00 PM for the afternoon session, you will board your speedboat for the return journey to the mainland.

As you head back, there's an exciting optional stop at the Equator crossing point on Lake Victoria. Here, you can observe the fascinating phenomenon of how the boat reacts to the opposing pressures of the Northern and Southern Hemispheres.

You'll have a few minutes to enjoy this unique experience, and for those who wish, there may be an opportunity for a quick swim.

Our driver will then be waiting to pick you up and transfer you to your accommodation in Entebbe or Kampala, marking the conclusion of your enriching 1-day Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Tour.