Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary
Ngamba Island
Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary is on Lake Victoria in Central Uganda. It covers about 100 acres, with 98 acres of forest. Over 50 rescued chimpanzees live there. These chimps were saved from poachers and illegal animal traders. Many were badly treated. Despite their trauma, they now live in a safe, peaceful environment. The sanctuary is run by the Chimpanzee Sanctuary and Wildlife Conservation Trust (CSWCT). This group includes seven partners, like the Jane Goodall Institute. Their goal is simple—protect the chimpanzees, teach visitors, and help local communities with jobs. Tourists can come for a day visit or stay longer to volunteer. It’s a place to learn, help, and connect with nature.
Reasons To Visit Ngamba Island
Ngamba Island is more than just a sanctuary — it’s a haven where rescued chimpanzees find safety and care. Nestled in the serene waters of Lake Victoria, the island offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature, learn about wildlife conservation, and make a lasting impact.
Meet man's closest relatives
At Ngamba Island, you’ll get up close with chimpanzees — intelligent, emotional, and playful beings who share 98.7% of our DNA. Your visit begins with a scenic boat ride from Entebbe across Africa’s largest lake, Lake Victoria. Choose a half-day or full-day excursion — both include a guided tour of the sanctuary and a visit to the Chimpanzee Viewing Platform, where you can observe the chimps during their lively feeding sessions. Full-day visitors enjoy two feeding times, allowing for more interaction and exploration. You’ll also be introduced to the sanctuary’s history, the life stories of the chimpanzees, and the tireless work being done to ensure their wellbeing. The island is also home to colorful birds, monitor lizards, and other unique species, making it a haven for nature lovers.
Caregiver for a day Experience
Step into the shoes of a Chimpanzee Caregiver for a day! This immersive program gives you the rare opportunity to be a part of the team caring for these intelligent and emotional beings. As a temporary caregiver, you’ll help prepare and serve meals, assist in medical checkups, participate in behavioral research, clean enclosures, and contribute your skills to administrative tasks — including documenting chimpanzee stories. This hands-on experience not only deepens your understanding of what it takes to protect and care for these orphaned chimps, but also helps raise essential funds for their continued wellbeing. While direct contact with the chimpanzees is not guaranteed, it may be possible under close supervision by sanctuary staff. (Note: Participation requires certain vaccinations and pre-approval from the Chimpanzee Sanctuary and Wildlife Conservation Trust.)
Lake Victoria Sunset Boat Tour
For overnight guests, the magic continues with an evening boat trip. As the sun sets over the equator, you’ll glide across the lake while local fishermen prepare for their night’s work. Enjoy the tranquil scenery and a refreshing drink as you reflect on your day — a perfect, peaceful end to your Ngamba experience.
Stay Overnight on Ngamba Island
Want to go even deeper? An overnight stay offers the most enriching experience. You’ll observe multiple chimp feedings, help prepare nighttime nests, and learn to interpret chimp behavior — all under the guidance of experienced sanctuary staff. There’s also time to visit nearby fishing villages, try your hand at fishing, and unwind by the campfire in the evening. It’s a unique blend of adventure, learning, and relaxation — an unforgettable escape into the heart of wildlife conservation.
Support a Conservation Mission
By visiting Ngamba Island, you’re not just taking a tour — you’re helping to protect endangered chimpanzees, fund essential care and veterinary support, and raise awareness about wildlife trafficking and deforestation in Africa. The sanctuary is managed by the Chimpanzee Sanctuary and Wildlife Conservation Trust (CSWCT), a non-profit organization dedicated to the long-term survival of chimpanzees in the wild and in sanctuaries. Every visit, every donation, and every shared story helps save a life.
How to Get To Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary
By visiting Ngamba Island, you’re not just taking a tour — you’re helping to protect endangered chimpanzees, fund essential care and veterinary support, and raise awareness about wildlife trafficking and deforestation in Africa. The sanctuary is managed by the Chimpanzee Sanctuary and Wildlife Conservation Trust (CSWCT), a non-profit organization dedicated to the long-term survival of chimpanzees in the wild and in sanctuaries. Every visit, every donation, and every shared story helps save a life.
Booking Information
Due to limited capacity, advance booking is required for all activities. You can book through the licensed travel agencies in Uganda. Packages include Half-day excursion, Full-day experience, Caregiver for a Day, Overnight stay (including boat transfer and meals). Group tours, school visits, and corporate team-building retreats can also be arranged on request.
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