Up Close with Our Closest Relatives
Witness the intelligence and social bonds of chimpanzees in a natural setting.
A Sanctuary of Hope
Providing refuge and care for orphaned chimpanzees in the heart of Lake Victoria.

Uganda’s Island Haven for Rescued Chimps

Floating on the serene waters of Lake Victoria, Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary is a safe refuge and lifelong home for over 50 orphaned and rescued chimpanzees. Spanning 100 acres of tropical forest, this lush island sanctuary lies just 23 kilometers southeast of Entebbe, offering a peaceful blend of conservation, care, and connection.

Its most heartwarming spectacle is the daily life of the chimps — from playful interactions and forest foraging to their clever antics during feeding sessions. Many were rescued from poachers and illegal wildlife trade, and now live freely under the dedicated care of conservationists and veterinarians.

Ngamba is also a sanctuary for other wildlife, including monitor lizards, otters, and over 150 bird species that find a home along the island’s shores and in its trees. From African fish eagles to colorful kingfishers, the air is alive with sound and flight.

With its tranquil setting, immersive chimpanzee experiences, and vital conservation mission, Ngamba Island is more than a destination — it’s a heart-touching reminder of humanity’s role in protecting our closest relatives in the animal kingdom.

Why Ngamba Island Captures Every Traveler’s Heart

A peaceful island retreat where compassion meets conservation — Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary offers travelers a rare and moving glimpse into the lives of rescued chimps and the beauty of coexisting with nature.

Top Experiences in Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary

Ngamba Island offers one of Uganda’s most personal and touching wildlife experiences — connecting visitors directly with rescued chimps in a serene and educational setting.

The chimpanzee feeding sessions are a highlight, where guests watch from a raised platform as the chimps emerge from the forest to receive fruit and vegetables — each with unique personalities, gestures, and bonds. Some stand on two legs, some clap in excitement, and others gently play or groom one another.

For deeper interaction, special experiences such as Caregiver for a Day programs and behind-the-scenes tours let visitors assist the sanctuary team, prepare food, and learn about chimpanzee health, nutrition, and enrichment routines.

Nature lovers can walk the forest trail, enjoy birdwatching, or relax along the island’s tranquil shores while spotting monitor lizards basking on rocks and fruit bats hanging in the trees. Eco-friendly cottages provide an overnight escape, where the sounds of the lake and distant chimp calls create a calming soundtrack.

Whether visiting for a few hours or staying overnight, Ngamba Island is a place where compassion, conservation, and natural beauty come together — offering unforgettable encounters and a deeper appreciation for our fellow primates.

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