Journal

Chimpanzees or Gorillas? How to Choose (and Why You Might Do Both)

Two very different primate encounters. Here is how gorilla and chimpanzee trekking compare in Uganda.

9 September 2026

Photo: Giles Laurent / CC BY-SA 4.0

Uganda is one of the few countries where you can trek both our closest living relatives. The two experiences are wonderfully different.

Mountain gorillas

Gorillas are calm, gentle and mostly stay on the ground, so once you find them you can watch at close quarters. The silverback’s presence is unforgettable, and young gorillas are endlessly playful. Treks in Bwindi can be steep and long.

Chimpanzees

Chimpanzees are fast, noisy and full of drama — calling, drumming on tree roots and swinging high in the canopy. Trekking in Kibale Forest is on flatter ground, and seeing them move through the forest is thrilling.

Cost

Gorilla permits currently cost USD 800 per person; chimpanzee permits in Kibale cost USD 250.

Our advice

If you can, do both. Our 7-Day Gorilla & Chimpanzee Safari combines them with the Kazinga Channel and tree-climbing lions.

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