
Discover Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary
Discover Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary
Imagine walking hand-in-hand through the forest with a lively chimpanzee at your side. This is just one of the incredible experiences awaiting visitors at Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary, a 100-acre refuge on Lake Victoria that shelters over 50 orphaned and rescued chimps.
Each chimp at Ngamba Island has a unique story. Many were rescued from poachers, others were ill or mistreated. None can return to the wild, but here they live safely, roam freely in the rainforest, are fed twice daily, and receive quality medical care and love.
Your journey begins with a scenic speedboat or motorized canoe ride from Entebbe. Upon arrival, you’ll be welcomed with a personal presentation from one of the sanctuary caregivers who know each chimp by name and story. Watch as the chimps are fed and even join the team to help serve their meals – a lively and unforgettable experience as they compete for your attention!
Things to Do and See
Feeding the Chimps
Witness two daily feedings – one in the morning and another in the afternoon. From a raised platform, you can watch the chimps interact, or volunteer to help with the feeding process.
Caregiver for a Day
This immersive program allows you to get up close with the chimps, prepare their food, assist with feeding, and help with health checks, research, and activity tracking – a full behind-the-scenes experience.
3-Day Chimpanzee Safari
Join small group guided tours and participate in chimpanzee care activities. Stay in self-contained tents on raised wooden platforms with panoramic views of Lake Victoria.
Sunset Cruise
Relax on a sunset cruise and soak in the golden light over Lake Victoria – a perfect way to end your island adventure.
Bird Watching
Ngamba Island is home to over 120 species of birds. Spot these vibrant birds along the shoreline or in the lush forest during a trail walk.
Fishing
Enjoy local-style fishing from the island or from your boat as you explore Lake Victoria’s waters.
Ngamba Island Overview
Location: Ngamba Island is 27 km (17 mi) southeast of Entebbe, accessible by boat.
Climate: Expect warm temperatures year-round with heavy rains between March and May due to its equatorial location.
Best Time to Visit: June to August and December to February offer the driest and most comfortable conditions for travel and wildlife viewing.
Getting There: Book your tour with Adventure In The Wild Safaris departing from Entebbe.
Daily Excursion Options
Half-day trips leave Entebbe at 9:00 am and 12:45 pm, returning at 12:45 pm and 4:45 pm respectively. You can choose between a 50-minute speedboat ride or a relaxed 90-minute motorized canoe journey across Lake Victoria.
Experience Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary with Adventure In The Wild Safaris
Set sail with Adventure In The Wild Safaris for an unforgettable day at this unique wildlife haven. We’ll help you design a personalized safari to Ngamba Island and other top destinations in Uganda. Book your half-day, full-day, or multi-day chimpanzee safari today and experience the joy of connecting with our primate cousins in a natural and protected habitat.