Chimpanzee Tracking Vs Gorilla Trekking
Chimpanzee Tracking Vs Gorilla Trekking | Key Differences
Chimpanzee tracking Vs gorilla trekking –What is the difference between chimpanzee and mountain gorilla trekking? Often, visitors on primate tours get confused between gorilla trekking and chimpanzee tracking. But you can explore a detailed guide as we make a comparison between chimpanzee tracking and gorilla trekking.
Get to learn the deep insights into what makes the two primate experiences different. Key areas of interest in this comparison include behavior, cost of permits, destinations, and more.
Comparison between Chimpanzee Tracking Vs Gorilla Trekking
Where to go for Chimpanzee Vs Gorilla Trekking
When it comes to primate adventures like chimp and gorilla trekking, first, you must decide on the destination to visit. The two primate adventures are best enjoyed on an East African safari. The best places to visit for chimpanzee tracking in East Africa include Uganda and Rwanda.
In Uganda, over 5050 chimpanzees are concentrated in the various rainforest-dominated areas, with the key destinations including Kibale National Park. At Kibale Forest National Park, there are over 1500 chimpanzees that make up part of the park’s 13 primate species.
An estimate of about 4 communities have undergone full habituation and can be explored with an experienced ranger guide. Other special locations to visit for chimpanzees on a Uganda safari include Kalinzu Forest, Kyambura Gorge, and Budongo Forest.
Chimpanzee tracking is also done in Nyungwe Forest National Park in Rwanda. Nyungwe offers unique chimpanzee trekking experiences to visitors on Rwanda safaris. Over 500 chimpanzees live in this Park, and you can start the search from Cyamudongo Forest and Uwinka Reception.
Gorilla trekking in East Africa prioritizes mountain gorillas and Eastern lowland gorillas. To trek to see mountain gorillas, the best places to consider a must-visit include Bwindi Impenetrable National Park & Mgahinga National Park. These are the iconic places to visit to find mountain gorillas in Uganda’s lush tropical rainforests.
Rwanda is the other priority destination to explore mountain gorillas in the wild. In Rwanda, expect to visit mountain gorillas in Volcanoes National Park, a vibrant destination with over 30% of the world’s largest apes.
Congo is the least visited when it comes to gorilla trekking, considering the interferences from the civil wars. But Congo gorilla tours promise nature enthusiasts with amazing encounters beyond mountain gorillas.
The Eastern lowland gorillas are best tracked in Congo, and visitors can book Eastern Lowland gorilla tour in Kahuzi-Biega National Park.
Behaviors of chimpanzees Vs gorillas
Chimpanzees are said to be more aggressive and display complex social and political strategies. Gorillas often remain more peaceful and stable in groups/families with a dominant silverback.
The chimpanzee communities are led by a mature male alpha chimpanzee. A single community of chimpanzees can comprise of over 100 members, and gorillas often comprise a small membership of 40 individuals.
Chimpanzees usually display more aggressive behavior and conduct organized hunting strategies. Gorillas are peaceful and docile, although they can also fight back, especially when provoked. The silverback takes charge to protect the entire group/family.
In terms of communication, chimpanzees’ vocalizations often include pant-hoot, drumming on the trees, and facial expressions. Gorillas display deep, rumbling belches and also chest beating. These are usually signs that they are threatened. At this point, visitors must pay maximum attention to the ranger guide’s instructions. Comparing chimpanzee and gorilla sizes, definitely gorillas are bigger.
Chimpanzees –Pan Troglodytes are more related to humans, with over 98% of their DNA similar to that of humans. Gorillas have over 97% similarity.
Chimpanzee Vs Gorilla Trekking Comparison in Terms of costs/prices
Chimpanzee and gorilla trekking safaris all come with varying rates. Chimpanzee permits cost differently depending on the destinations. The standard Kibale permit cost USD 250 per person, and the Kyambura Gorge permits costs USD 100 per visitor. In Rwanda, Nyungwe chimpanzee permits are booked at USD 150, and the entrance fee is USD 100.
Mountain gorilla permit rates for Uganda currently stand at USD 800 per person, and Rwanda’s permits cost USD 1500 per person. Booking chimpanzees or gorilla permits is possible through a trusted company –contact us to secure your permit in advance.
Length of the Treks –Chimpanzees Vs Gorilla Trekking
Trekking chimpanzees can take about 2-4 hours, unlike 2-6 hours while on a guided gorilla trekking adventure. During chimpanzee tracking, there is a possibility to engage in a morning or afternoon trekking session. This is not the case with the mountain gorilla trekking tours, where only single treks are offered to nature enthusiasts.
When to go
Chimpanzee and gorilla trekking adventures are unique and can be best enjoyed during the peak dry months or seasons of the year. Each year, chimp and gorilla destinations experience short and long dry seasons, which you can consider when booking your safari.
The longest dry or peak months fall in June, July, August, and September, while the short dry season extend from December, January, and February.
It is also possible to plan and secure a gorilla trek or chimpanzee tracking during the low or off-season. This is from March, April, May (long wet or rainy season), whereas the short wet or low season as per Ugandan calendar is experienced from October to November.
The off peak months are ideal for birding tours but also gorilla or chimpanzee trekking, especially if you want to embark on budget safaris.
What take on Chimpanzee & Gorilla Trekking?
A complete list of items to carry for a chimpanzee or gorilla trekking session in Uganda or Rwanda includes long-sleeved shirts, valid permits, waterproof walking boots, passports, a camera, insect repellents, trousers, a safari sun hat, a daypack, enough water (bottled), and gardening gloves. You also require a pair of socks, a pair of binoculars, long pants, and many other items.
Updated Gorilla & chimpanzee trekking rules
The set gorilla and chimpanzee trekking rules are almost similar, although they are different in some aspects. Below are the set rules and regulations to observe during the chimpanzee tracking or gorilla trekking adventure.
1. Only 1 (one) hour that is given should be maximized during the face-to-face with a gorilla group or chimpanzee community.
2. Do not visit gorillas/chimpanzees when you are sick/ill.
3. To track gorillas, you should be above 15 years, and for chimpanzees, visitors should be 12 years old.
4. A maximum of 8pax can visit a single gorilla group and chimpanzees, you should 6pax.
5. The gorilla/chimpanzee habitats should be kept clean. Ensure that these apes’ habitats are kept cleaner than you got they are. Carry every used container back and throw them in the designated locations.
6. Carry a valid chimp/gorilla permit for you to be allowed to explore chimpanzees and gorillas.
Tips for planning chimpanzee and gorilla trekking safaris
To enjoy a successful chimpanzee tracking and gorilla trekking adventure, ensure that you book your safari early. This can let you secure the slot in advance and engage in the search for chimpanzees or gorillas. Ensure that you meet the age limit and be certain about your fitness levels.
Top Safaris to book for Chimpanzee Vs Gorilla Trekking
Conclusion: Take note of the above comparison of chimpanzee Vs gorilla trekking and choose the adventure that leaves lasting memories. Booking both gorilla trekking and chimpanzee tracking can even make your holiday more memorable. Contact Flawless Adventure Planners Ltd, the best organizers of primate adventures like mountain gorilla trekking and chimpanzee tracking.