Primate Lodge

Kibale Forest

Primate Lodge inside Kibale National Park

Rating: Mid-range

Primate Lodge Kibale is the ultimate choice for those seeking an unforgettable experience of sleeping in premium comfort among primates, age-old trees, and forest wildlife. Located inside Kibale National Park and closest to the visitor center at Kanyanchu, guests have prime access to exhilarating forest activities such as guided chimpanzee trekking excursions and the immersive Chimpanzee Habituation Experience. Waking up to the natural sounds of birds and primate calls is an exciting and unique experience for most guests that book this lodge.

Kibale National Park is known as the easiest forest in the world to watch primates and is referred to as Africa’s primate capital, protecting the highest concentration of primate species in the world. Some of the forest’s inhabitants have been habituated for human presence, allowing travelers to experience walking in the jungle with chimpanzee troops. Primate Lodge is perfectly located in the center of all the jungle action.

The lodge’s rustic style affords beautiful views of the dense ethereal rainforest and is quietly secluded, offering an authentic experience. The main open lounge area features comfortable armchairs and sofas, making it a perfect spot to unwind after a day in the forest while listening to the red-tailed monkeys in the surrounding trees. On cool evenings, fires are lit, creating a cozy atmosphere, while colorful traditional dance performances provide a real insight into the local culture. However, the highlight of any stay here is the jungle hikes to track and spot chimpanzees in their natural setting.

If you are planning a tailor-made Uganda tour that includes visiting chimpanzees in Kibale, there’s no better choice for accommodation than Primate Lodge.

Accommodation at Primate Lodge

Primate Lodge Kibale boasts 17 rooms, divided into two categories: 9 Luxury Cottages and 7 Standard Cottages, which can be configured with either single or twin beds.

All accommodations have a private veranda and en-suite bathroom with flush toilet and hot water provided at certain times of the day. The Superior Safari Cottages are situated on a raised wooden platform and blend seamlessly into the surroundings with their grass-thatched roofs. They offer queen-sized beds, large windows, and African-style décor, including local stone, bamboo, and paintings.

The lodge’s Forest Cottages have a homely feel and are spaced apart to ensure privacy and uninterrupted forest views. They feature twin beds and a sitting area and are decorated with local artwork.

For the more adventurous guests, the Sky Tree House is only a ten-minute walk away. This unique accommodation option provides guests with the opportunity to stay up in a tree overlooking the elephant wallow.

Meals are served in a spacious open dining room that offers both international and African cuisines. The lodge also has a bar next to the restaurant where guests can enjoy various alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, including coffee, while taking in the stunning views of the surrounding forest.

Activities at Primate Lodge

Primate Lodge Kibale is perfectly situated just a quick 5-minute walk from the trailhead at Kanyanchu visitor center, allowing guests to easily join guided chimpanzee treks. These treks typically depart early in the morning or at 2:00 pm in the afternoon and take guests into the Kibale Forest in search of Africa’s wild chimpanzees. The experience of viewing these intelligent primates up close in their natural habitat is a top wildlife adventure that should not be missed, and the moments can be intimate and awe-inspiring.

For bird enthusiasts, the national park is home to an impressive 325 species of birds, including six species that are endemic to the Albertine Rift region. These include the black-capped Apalis, collared Apalis, purple-breasted sunbirds, blue-headed sunbirds, dusky crimson wings, and red-faced woodland warblers.

The area also offers some lovely nature walks, including the popular community-guided walks in the small Bigodi Wetland Sanctuary in the east of the park. These walks provide excellent opportunities to encounter more primates in their natural habitat. The Sebitoli Forest also boasts a network of trails that offer further opportunities for viewing various primates and birds on the forest’s northern side.

For those interested in exploring beyond Kibale Forest, the Amabere ga Nyina Mwiru Caves are a renowned cave system located near Fort Portal, around 15km from the park. This fascinating attraction is considered one of the seven wonders of Uganda and is definitely worth a visit.