Best of Africa primate safaris – Chimpanzee, mountain gorillas, Golden monkey
Best of Africa primate safaris – If you’re passionate about African primates, there is no more captivating safari than this immersion in their natural realm in the heart of Africa. This detailed exploration of mountain gorillas, chimpanzees and a delightful variety of monkeys as they preen and play. Discover Kibale Forest, home to 13 primate species; scout for chimps and a multitude of wildlife in Queen Elizabeth National Park, and finish with two life-changing days among the gorillas of Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park.
The human-like behaviors, social interactions and playful antics of primates capture the hearts of people around the world. The appeal of these sapiens cousins is one of the reasons why you choose an unscripted nature-centric vacation. The Best Africa Primate Safaris by Great Adventure Safaris celebrates these prized and threatened creatures. Our Best Africa Primate safaris are led by experienced driver guides with an intimate knowledge of ape habitats and behaviors.
Primate safaris offered by great adventure safaris
We can coordinate your schedule to highlight primates, or enhance your existing plans if desired. With less than 1080 remaining in the wild, Mountain Gorillas are one of the world’s greatest heart-breaking wildlife stories. The animals are cherished for their peaceful demeanor, gentle appearance and deep brown eyes.
Looking directly at a Mountain Gorilla is ill-advised, though; viewing them at a very close proximity gives us a chance to almost peer into their souls. Uganda is one of three places in Africa where you can see these majestic animals. A powerful silverback male typically protects his family.
Approximately half of the Mountain Gorilla population now lives in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest National Park, declared as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Trekking in Bwindi Forest is not for the faint hearted; it is strenuous, very wild, authentic and unspoiled, so you truly feel a connection to the primate host living in an unspoiled jungle wilderness.
Another incredible African primate destination for Mountain Gorillas is in Volcanoes National Park of Rwanda, research home of the late Dian Fossey. Here, a ranger guide skillfully tracks the Gorillas, taking you through idyllic bamboo stands and dense forest in a less demanding trek. You find yourself smiling quietly, keeping a respectful distance, as the infant Gorillas taunt the silverback and try to engage their mothers.
Virunga National Park in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Africa’s oldest national park, is another distinct wilderness to see its endangered Mountain Gorillas and also Chimps at Tongo Forest Hills; though, tourist facilities, infrastructure and security are ironically still in its infancy.
Primate safari combos in Africa
Nyungwe Forest National Park in Rwanda and Kibale Forest National Park in Uganda also has Chimpanzees; over 500 and 1400 of them respectively, though, they are much habituated to human presence and there are fewer restrictions on viewing times. You can go on a Chimpanzee Habituation Experience at Kibale Forest and spend the whole day with them, but the Chimpanzee safari in Tanzania is without hordes of tourists, impromptu, pristine and a truly authentic experience by Lake Tanganyika.
The subtropical climate of the island of Madagascar is absolute heaven for the 33 species of lemurs. The diversity is astonishing, ranging from Pygmy Mouse lemurs weighing only 25 grams to the largest remaining species, Indri or babakoto. All of the primates are endemic to Madagascar, and researchers and scientists are still discovering more species.
Just imagine! You may be on your African primate tour in Africa when a new species is found! Living on an island, though, has not protected lemurs from human threat, as more than 17 species have been lost since the arrival of humans around 2000 years ago. The small populations, hunting and extreme vulnerability to forest habitat loss are why all of the world’s lemurs are now considered endangered.
Other areas in Africa also offer the Best Africa Primate safaris with an abundance of agile, entertaining and intriguing species. In Kenya, many forests offer the rich and dense habitats that support populations of Tana River Red Colobus and Tana River Crested Mangabeys. Tana River Red Colobus are quite endangered and rare, and so is the Kirk’s Red Colobus at Jozani Forest on Zanzibar Island. You will appreciate the keen eye of your guide, as these hairy mammals are elusive and difficult to spot in the canopy. Riverine forests by the Tana are home to Crested Mangabeys, yellowish-brown primates with white markings and an enchanting crest on their heads.
Contact Great Adventure Safaris for more information about your planned Africa Primate safari and we provide you with all the details you require so that you plan your trip accordingly.
