Meet The Great Apes: Gorilla and Chimpanzee Safari In The Wild
Our Gorilla and Chimpanzee Safari began in Entebbe, where the shimmering waters of Lake Victoria welcomed us. A short boat ride carried us to Ngamba Island, home to rescued chimpanzees. From the wooden visitor platform we watched them feed, listened to their calls echo across the water, and felt the wild beauty of Uganda come alive.
Arrival in Entebbe
Our journey started at Entebbe International Airport, where the humid air carried a faint mix of lake breeze and red dust. A short taxi ride took us through leafy streets lined with jacaranda trees to the Lake Victoria Hotel (from $180 AUD per night). This colonial-style property has wide verandas, polished wooden floors, and manicured gardens filled with birdsong. After checking in, the staff greeted us with a cool hibiscus juice, the tartness balancing perfectly against the afternoon warmth.
The rooms were spacious, with tall windows and mosquito nets draped like soft canopies over the beds. From the balcony, we could see the lake stretching out in shimmering shades of silver and blue, dotted with fishing boats.
Lunch in Entebbe
Before heading to the pier, we stopped for lunch at a small local café near the main road, just a 10-minute walk from our hotel. The aroma of charcoal grills filled the air, and we ordered rolex — a Ugandan street-food favorite made of eggs, tomatoes, onions, and cabbage rolled in a fresh chapati. It came hot and slightly crisp, with a hint of chili. A plate cost around 10,000 Ugandan Shillings ($4 AUD), making it both filling and budget-friendly.
Alongside, we tried a fresh passionfruit juice, tangy and refreshing in the midday heat, for about 5,000 UGX ($2 AUD). It was the perfect light meal before the boat ride.
Walk to Entebbe Pier
Later that morning, we set out on foot to the Entebbe Pier, a pleasant 20-minute walk from the hotel. The road down passes small stalls selling mangoes and roasted maize, while school-children in bright uniforms waved as we passed. The closer we got to the pier, the smell of drying fish mixed with lake air.
At the pier, we bought tickets for the boat to Ngamba Island (about $100 USD / $155 AUD including sanctuary entry). Wooden fishing boats rocked gently beside more modern motorboats, and pelicans glided overhead as we boarded.
Crossing Lake Victoria – Gorilla and Chimpanzee Safari
Once on the boat, the expanse of Lake Victoria, the largest lake in Africa, seemed endless. Its surface shimmered in aqua tones, shifting to deep navy where the sky reflected. Along the way we passed small fishing villages with thatched huts pressed close to the shore. Nets hung drying on poles, and children ran to the water’s edge to wave.
The birdlife was astounding. We saw African fish eagles with striking white heads and chestnut wings circling above, their cries piercing the air. Malachite kingfishers darted in flashes of electric blue and orange, skimming the surface for tiny fish. Great cormorants stood drying their wings, while herons stalked the shallows with patient precision.
Every so often, the water rippled with movement — Nile monitor lizards slipping into the depths, or tilapia breaking the surface. Our guide pointed out hippos further in the marshy areas, their ears twitching above the waterline.
Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary
Arriving at Ngamba Island, we felt the shift immediately: the air was rich with the earthy smell of forest and damp vegetation. From the visitor’s platform, we watched as sanctuary staff prepared the feeding. Soon the forest canopy rustled, and chimpanzees appeared, moving with fluid strength. Some carried sticks to reach fruit, others barked and hooted in excitement.
The visitors’ platform at Ngamba Island is a raised deck overlooking the forest where the chimpanzees roam. From here, guests can watch the daily feeding sessions, observe the chimps’ natural behaviors and social interactions, and hear insights from the sanctuary staff. The platform sits safely beside the electric fence, giving a close yet secure view of these remarkable animals.
Gorilla and Chimpanzee Safari – The sanctuary currently houses more than 50 rescued chimpanzees, many orphaned by poaching. Staff explained their work in rehabilitation, veterinary care, and long-term protection. It was moving to see individuals with unique personalities — one carefully peeled bananas, another greedily stuffed mangoes into its cheeks.
Hearing their calls echo across the island was haunting, a reminder of how close they are to us genetically and emotionally. The staff spoke about the challenges of conserving habitats under pressure from farming and development, underscoring why the sanctuary matters.
Return to Entebbe – Gorilla and Chimpanzee Safari
The ride back across the lake in late afternoon light was serene. The sun dipped low, turning the water into a sheet of molten gold. Fishermen cast nets against the glow, creating silhouettes that looked like moving sculptures. Gorilla and Chimpanzee Safari – We spotted more birdlife, including the rare shoebill stork, its massive beak prehistoric in appearance, standing like a silent sentinel in the reeds.
Back in Entebbe, we returned to the Lake Victoria Hotel for dinner.
Dinner Recommendations
Back at the Lake Victoria Hotel, we had the option of dining in their airy restaurant, where the colonial décor sets a relaxed mood. As mentioned, the grilled tilapia was excellent — soft and fragrant with lemon, accompanied by matoke and peanut sauce. If you prefer dining out, two strong recommendations nearby are:
Faze 3 Restaurant & Bar (main courses $15–20 AUD): On the shores of Lake Victoria, offering a mix of Ugandan and international dishes. The grilled Nile perch and Indian curries are standouts.
4 Points Bar & Restaurant (meals $10–15 AUD): A casual spot popular with both locals and travelers, known for generous portions of goat stew, chicken luwombo (stew cooked in banana leaves), and cold local beers.
Both restaurants are within a 10-minute drive of the hotel and give a more local flavor than staying in.
That night, lying under the mosquito net with the fan humming, we reflected on how this first day had already shown us so much of Uganda’s natural beauty and commitment to protecting its primates.
Pro Traveler Tip
Bring a pair of binoculars for the boat ride — the variety of birdlife on Lake Victoria is remarkable, and you’ll get a much better view of the fish eagles, kingfishers, and shoebills.
Pro Traveler Warning
The lake crossing can get choppy in the afternoon. If you’re prone to motion sickness, sit toward the back of the boat and take precautions before boarding.
About Entebbe – Gorilla and Chimpanzee Safari
Where is Entebbe located?
Entebbe is a town on the northern shores of Lake Victoria in central Uganda. It’s about 35 km southwest of Kampala, the capital, and is home to Uganda’s main international airport.
What is Entebbe known for?
Entebbe is known as the gateway to Uganda, with the international airport, Lake Victoria views, botanical gardens, and access to Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary. It’s also remembered for the 1976 Entebbe Raid.
Is Entebbe safe for tourists?
Yes, Entebbe is considered one of Uganda’s safer towns. Usual travel precautions apply: avoid walking alone late at night, keep valuables secure, and use trusted taxis or hotel transport.
What is the best time to visit Entebbe
The dry seasons —December to Februaryand June to September — are the best times to visit. Weather is warm and ideal for boat rides, nature walks, and day trips.
What currency is used in Entebbe?
The Ugandan Shilling (UGX) is the local currency. Many hotels and tourist services also accept US dollars, but carrying local currency is best for small purchases like food, taxis, and souvenirs.
