Wildlife & Conservation

Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary

Spend a day with our closest relatives on a pristine island sanctuary

Overview

Experience the magic of spending time with chimpanzees on Ngamba Island, a 100-acre sanctuary in Lake Victoria that provides a safe haven for orphaned and rescued chimps. Just a 45-minute boat ride from Entebbe, this is one of the most rewarding wildlife experiences in Uganda.

The sanctuary is home to over 50 chimpanzees living in semi-wild conditions across 95 acres of forest. Your visit directly supports their care and the excellent conservation work being done here.

✨ Highlight of the Tour

The afternoon feeding session is truly unforgettable. Watch the chimps emerge from the forest to the feeding platform, where you'll see their individual personalities—from playful youngsters to wise elders. You'll be just metres away from these magnificent creatures.

What to Expect

  • Boat Journey: Scenic 45-minute boat ride across Lake Victoria with views of Entebbe peninsula and other islands
  • Sanctuary Introduction: Briefing about the chimpanzees' individual stories and sanctuary operations
  • Forest Walk: Guided walk through the sanctuary (optional, depending on chimp location)
  • Feeding Session: Watch the chimps at the feeding platform - the main event!
  • Education Centre: Learn about chimpanzee conservation and the threats facing great apes

Full Itinerary

08:30

Pick up from The Haven

Your dedicated driver will collect you from the hotel and transfer you to the jetty at Entebbe pier.

09:00

Boat Departure

Board the sanctuary boat for the scenic crossing to Ngamba Island. Keep an eye out for birds and maybe even monitor lizards!

09:45

Arrival & Briefing

Arrive at Ngamba Island, welcome drink, and introduction to the sanctuary and its residents.

10:30

Guided Forest Walk

Explore the forest edge and learn about the chimps' habitat (chimps may be deep in the forest at this time).

12:00

Lunch

Enjoy a packed lunch at the sanctuary's picnic area overlooking the lake.

14:00

Feeding Session

The highlight! Watch the chimps arrive at the feeding platform - an incredible photographic opportunity.

15:00

Education Centre

Visit the education centre to understand conservation challenges and successes.

16:00

Return Boat

Depart Ngamba Island for the journey back to Entebbe.

16:45

Return to The Haven

Your driver will be waiting to take you back to the hotel.

Important Information

  • What to bring: Sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, camera, binoculars, waterproof jacket (just in case)
  • What to wear: Light, comfortable clothing and sturdy shoes for walking
  • Restrictions: Children under 5 not recommended. Minimum age 6 years.
  • Health: Yellow fever vaccination recommended for Uganda

Tour Details

Duration Full Day (8 hours)
Group Size 1-10 people
Difficulty Easy
Departure 08:30 from hotel
Returns ~17:00 to hotel
£95 per person

Children under 12: £75

Check Availability

What's Included

  • Private hotel pickup and drop-off
  • Return boat transfers to Ngamba Island
  • Sanctuary entry fee
  • Guided tour of the sanctuary
  • Feeding session viewing
  • Packed lunch
  • Bottled water
  • Services of your dedicated driver

Not Included

  • Alcoholic drinks
  • Tips and gratuities
  • Personal insurance