Over 426 Chimpanzees Confirmed in Bwindi Forest

Breaking news! Over 426 chimpanzees have been confirmed in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park. Whereas this dense Forest has been famous as premier gorilla tour destination in Uganda and the whole world; a recent chimpanzee census has confirmed that approximately 426 chimpanzees live in Bwindi Forest Park. This marks a major milestone for wildlife conservation in Uganda providing the first comprehensive and scientifically verified population figure for this important rainforest.

For travellers planning a Uganda safari with Superfine Safaris Limited, this discovery adds even more value to visiting Bwindi a destination already famous for mountain gorilla trekking experience

When Was the Census Conducted and By Whom?

The chimpanzee census was conducted in 2025 by the Uganda Wildlife Authority (UWA) in collaboration with the Jane Goodall Institute Uganda and conservation partners. The fieldwork lasted several months, allowing researchers to systematically cover the park’s 331 square kilometers of dense forest. Because Bwindi is mountainous and heavily vegetated, the survey required careful planning, trained field teams, and detailed data collection across multiple sectors of the park. The official results were released in early 2026, confirming an estimated population of about 426 chimpanzees.

How Was the Census Carried Out?

Researchers used standardized nest count survey methods, which are widely accepted in primate population studies. Chimpanzees build new sleeping nests in trees almost every night. By counting nests along mapped transects and analyzing nesting patterns, scientists can estimate population size without directly disturbing the animals.

The process involved:

• Establishing survey transects across different park sectors
• Recording chimpanzee nests and signs such as feeding remains
• Analyzing nest decay rates
• Applying scientific population estimation models

This approach ensured accuracy while maintaining strict conservation standards.

Why This Discovery Is Important

1. Establishing a Reliable Population Baseline

Before this census, chimpanzee numbers in Bwindi were not clearly documented. The new data provides an official baseline for monitoring trends, planning conservation programs, and evaluating long-term ecosystem health.

2. Strengthening Bwindi’s Conservation Value

Bwindi is internationally recognized for its mountain gorillas, but this census confirms that it is also a significant habitat for chimpanzees. Protecting chimpanzees means protecting the broader rainforest ecosystem, which supports hundreds of other species.

3. Enhancing Uganda’s Primate Tourism Profile

Uganda is already known as the “Primate Capital of the World.” The confirmation of over 400 chimpanzees in Bwindi further strengthens this reputation and highlights the country’s biodiversity richness.

Is chimpanzee Trekking allowed in Bwindi Forest?

No, chimpanzee trekking is note allowed in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park. Although the recent census confirmed a healthy chimpanzee population in the park, there are currently no issued permits, no habituated chimpanzee groups, and no official trekking programs operating in Bwindi for chimpanzees.

Why Chimpanzee Trekking Is Not Yet Available in Bwindi

Just like in gorilla safaris, Chimpanzee trekking requires a long preparation process before tourists can safely and responsibly visit the animals. Unlike mountain gorillas, chimpanzees are highly mobile, fast-moving, and spend much of their time in the forest canopy. This makes tracking and habituation more complex.

Before trekking can begin, the following steps must happen:

• Identification of stable chimpanzee communities
• Long-term habituation to human presence
• Safety and behavioral assessments
• Development of trekking routes
• Training of ranger guides
• Establishment of permit regulations

What This Means for Visitors

While chimpanzee trekking in Uganda is commonly done in other forests, the confirmed population in Bwindi adds to the park’s overall wildlife significance. Visitors coming for gorilla trekking can now appreciate that they are exploring a forest that supports two of Africa’s great apes.

At Superfine Safaris Limited, we design customized Uganda safari itineraries that combine gorilla trekking in Bwindi with other primate and wildlife experiences across the country. Our expert team ensures responsible tourism practices that support conservation and local communities.

Other wildlife in Bwindi Forest Park

In addition to the newly confirmed chimpanzees, Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park is home to several other wild animals. The dense forest is home to  half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas, Over 120 mammal species, more than 350 bird species and numerous endemic plant species. This biodiversity makes Bwindi one of the most rewarding safari destinations in East Africa.

Plan Your Bwindi Safari with Confidence

The confirmation of over 400 chimpanzees in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is more than just a number it is proof that conservation efforts are working. It strengthens Uganda’s position as a leading primate destination and enhances the value of every safari experience in the region.

If you are planning a Uganda gorilla safari, now is the perfect time to explore Bwindi’s extraordinary biodiversity with Superfine Safaris Limited your trusted partner for professionally guided, sustainable, and memorable East African safaris. Contact us now