African Great Apes Safari
Gorillas & Chimpanzees
The magic of primates is that we often see inklings of ourselves in these wild giants. A curiosity, a gentle touch, a simple mannerism. Being witness to the similarities between ourselves and our ancient ancestors leads us toward introspection and humility.
Tourism: A new hope for an endangered species.
A male silverback gorilla from the Ntambara family moves through the forest of Volcanoes National Park in Northern Rwanda. In the background are two other volcanic peaks in cloud cover. These volcanoes and the forests on their slopes are some of the last remaining safe habitat for the mountain Gorilla. Rwanda’s protection of this species and subsequent tourism push has meant the gorilla population is expanding.
Find magic in the mists of Africa’s tropical forests.
Primates offer us a rare glimpse into our own lives.
A group of mountain gorillas ambles through the trees, their impressive arms breaking off pieces of bamboo as their next meal. You can hear the sound of their steps, the crunch of their chewing, and an occasional grunt or deep breath. They are peaceful and calm, but even as you observe them in this state, you can imagine the terror that would result from the full force of their power.
You’ll hear the chimpanzees before you see them, with their whooping high above in the trees. They are active and playful, even rowdy, and although significantly smaller than the gorillas, are powerful animals in their own right.
Uganda and Rwanda are widely considered the best places to witness the wonders of Africa’s great apes and Tanzania is also an ideal destination for chimpanzees. You’ll spend several hours trekking through dense, steep, slippery forest in order to spend a magical hour quietly observing these human-like beasts. A certain level of physical fitness is required, especially because the length of the hike is hard to predict and fully dependent on where the animals have decided to venture.
Go Chimpanzee trekking at Greystoke Mahale.
Stay at Singita Kwitonda and experience the best of luxury after your days trekking with Gorillas.
The bird nest inspired architecture of each room blends in beautifully with the surrounding forest. Enjoy great views and the most comfortable setup inside your own little nest.
Set at the fine line between the beaches of warm Lake Tanganyika and the beautiful Mahale Mountains, Greystoke offers the highest of bush luxury in proximity to the famous chimpanzees of Mahale National Park.
One & Only has recently opened this stunner property set at the foot of the gorilla hikes with the most beautiful forested surroundings. Get pampered after a long forest hike with incredible food, views, and service.
The paramount of luxury with breathtaking views of Rwanda’s volcanoes and proximity to wildlife. Enjoy a visit to Kwitonda’s wine cellar, or sit by the fire and enjoy the cool temperatures of the Virunga Mountains.
Gorilla eating bamboo
Chimpanzees in Mahale Mountain National Park, Tanzania
Gorilla youngster gets a closer look at our camera
Great Apes Safari
Location: Gorillas in Uganda & Rwanda; Chimpanzees in Tanzania
Camp setup: Multiple options to choose from
How to get there: All locations are quite remote and require transit via aircraft from the capital city. Gorillas are easiest to view from Kigali, Rwanda.
Wildlife: Gorillas & chimpanzees
Activities: Hiking/trekking to see gorillas and chimpanzees. Gorilla trekking can be strenuous hiking uphill for multiple hours.
When to Visit: Anytime of year
