Scientifically called Pan troglodytes, Chimpanzees are one of the four great apes in the wild. Genetically, chimpanzees share over 99% of human genes, which make them man’s close relatives. The human like characters of chimpanzees them worth visiting. Chimpanzees live in communities each headed by a dominant male who leads the adult females and the young ones. Chimpanzees in Africa live in Uganda, Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Check the common facts about chimpanzees in Africa with Gorilla Trek Africa. These include:
1. Chimpanzees are close relatives to human beings sharing over 99% of human genes
2. Chimpanzees are scientifically called Pan troglodytes
3. The gestation period of chimpanzees include 243 days
4. The lifespan of female chimpanzees is 39 years in the zoo while males live for 32 years in captivity
5. Chimpanzees only survive in Africa
6. Chimpanzees live in communities comprised of 30 members and above
7. Chimpanzees are susceptible to human diseases
8. Chimpanzees communicate to each other using sign language
9. Chimpanzees can live for more than 50 years in the wild
10. Chimpanzees are herbivorous
11. The major diet of chimpanzees include fruits, roots, shoots, leaves and flowers
12. At times, chimpanzees eat small insects and small mammals including monkeys
13. Chimpanzees laugh loud when happy
14. Chimps groom each other
15. Female chimpanzees nurse babies like human mothers
16. The hairs of chimpanzees stand tall when angry
17. Young babies keep with their moms most times
18. Chimpanzees have opposable thumbs just like humans
19. They have big toes
20. They are listed as endangered species by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN)
21. Chimps are threatened by loss of habitats, sicknesses and poaching
22. Chimpanzees walk on tow legs
23. Females reach production at 13 years
24. When on heat, female chimpanzees show a large pink sexual feeling
25. Chimps use tools such as sticks to dig uproots
26. They are aggressive when attacked
27. Chimps in captivity can learn sign language
28. They are ground animals which at times climb in the trees especially during day
29. Chimps change their nests everyday. They cannot sleep in the same nest for 2 nights
30. Chimps worn each other on danger
31. They have similar personalities
Where to trek chimpanzees in Africa
The top places to see chimpanzees in Africa include Uganda in Kibale Forest National Park, Nyungwe Forest National Park in Rwanda and Bili Forest in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Other places to see chimpanzees in Africa are Kyambura Gorge in Queen Elizabeth National Park, Kalinzu Forest and Budongo Forest in Murchison Falls National Park.
Cost of Chimpanzee Trekking in Africa
The cost of chimpanzee trekking in Africa varies in different countries. In Uganda, a chimpanzee permit costs $200 for foreign nonresidents, $150 for foreign residents and UGX 150,000 for East African residents. On the other hand, a Rwanda chimpanzee permit costs $100 for all travelers. If you want you spend extended time with the chimpanzees, book a chimpanzee habituation experience for a full day encounter with chimpanzees in kibale Forest national park. Chimpanzee permit bookings are recommended at least 6 months before the trekking date. Booking can be done through Gorilla Trek Africa or directly with Uganda Wildlife Authority or Rwanda Development Board.
Best Time to Trek Chimpanzees
Dry season in the months of June, July, August, September, December, January and February are the best time to trek chimpanzees in Africa. During this time, there are less or no rains which easy trekking through the jungle. However, wet season in the months of March, April, May, October and November is best for budget travelers. Service providers such as hotels and transport companies tend to give discounted services in the wet season to encourage more travelers.
What to Pack for Chimpanzee Trekking in Africa
Trekking to see chimpanzees is not a walk away but rather a strenuous experience. For that case, travelers are advised to pack the essentials to ensure a peaceful and less difficult chimpanzee trek. Among the things to carry for chimpanzee trekking include:
• Hiking boots/shoes
• Sun glasses
• Hat
• Long Pants
• Long Sleeved shirts/Blouses
• Gardening gloves
• First aid Kit
• Insect repellants
• Bottled drinking water
• Extra batter for the camera
• Energy giving snacks
Conclusively, chimpanzee trekking is one of the best wildlife experiences in Africa. Contact Gorilla Trek Africa today, book a chimpanzee tour to Uganda, Rwanda and Congo and be part of this lifetime adventure.
