A Complete Chimpanzee Parking List (Tracking + Habituation).

What to carry during chimpanzee tracking and habituation?

Chimpanzee tracking and Habituation are exciting, unique experiences taking place in the Kibale Forest National Park. Both activities give an extraordinary opportunity to meet man’s closest relatives, which have been scientifically proven to share up to 98% of the human DNA, characterized by their social behavior, intelligence, can use tools, and communicate through a variety of vocalizations. It is essential when considering a trip to the conservation area to pack right for the safari. Chimpanzee tracking generally can be challenging; some days are best while others can be tough depending on the weather conditions.

What to carry during chimpanzee and habituation includes long-sleeved shirts and Trousers, during the tracking it involves waking up early, for example the habituation starts at 6:30 am East African time, you will need something to warm you up and protect your skin from the spikes, thorns, trees and small insects, although the paths are well developed it is still a rain forest that you will encounter branches along the way.

Waterproof rain Jackets, waterproof covers for phones and cameras, this is helpful especially during the wet season in April, March, November, May, and October, although there is a high chance of rainfall even during the dry season, so to be on the safe side, guests are urged to carry a rain jacket along with them any day of tracking.

Insect repellent, chimpanzee tracking, and habituation are done in the forest, these harbor a lot of insects due to the presence of swamps, trees, and a good breeding environment, for example, mosquitoes, flies, among others. It is wise to take an insect repellent for your comfort and a better experience while doing the activities.

Water bottles and back packs, due to the long hours of walking, it is essential to take a back pack and water bottle to stay hydrated, the chimpanzee tracking takes 2-3 hours depending on how far the primates have moved, upon finding them an hour is allowed while with the primates and there after return to meet your guide, during the walk you sometimes feel hungry hence a snack in the backpack may be helpful.

A pair of binoculars and camera, while in the forest sometimes it’s difficult to see species up-close binoculars aid you to get a closer look, sometimes a glimpse of the ones in the nests and bird species, cameras capture moments and memories to take home with you forever, it is wise to pack a few extra batteries or power bank for cameras, these tools enhance and better your experience during chimpanzee tracking.

Proper hiking boots, the journey to find the primates includes long hours of walking; it takes approximately 2-3 hours. The boots protect your feet from spikes and sliding while walking, keep you from the ants, and ensure dryness, as the park’s base sometimes tends to be soaked. To a better advantage, purchase those that are waterproof.

Garden gloves are a thing that may seem simple, but can be very helpful during a chimpanzee tracking session, especially in a tropical rain forest, expecting a lot of undergrowth, including ferns, thorny branches, etc. Gloves protect your hands and skin from scratches that can easily result in strong irritations.

Hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen are vital, especially during the dry season, it protects you from direct sunlight.

Besides the packing list mentioned, guests have the free will to pack any other items that they feel will be important to enhance their experience during tracking, although some of the items are provided by the respective Lodges, for example, toiletries like soap, hair conditioner, shampoo, and even body lotions.