What it is
Around 795 sq km of moist forest near Fort Portal, with an unusually high density of primates: thirteen species, several of which you will see on the walk in.
Why go
The habituated chimpanzee communities here are used to people, so a sighting is normal rather than lucky, and you are standing in mature forest rather than scrub. The habituation experience starts before dawn at the night nests and runs most of the day. Bigodi Wetland next door is a cheap, genuinely good two-hour walk for monkeys and birds.
When to go
June to September and December to February are easiest underfoot, though tracking runs all year. Permits are limited and should be booked months ahead, at the same time as the gorilla permit. Chimps move fast and sit high — expect a sore neck, and bring a long lens if photographs matter to you.
Most people stay 2 nights.
