Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary is one of Uganda’s most unique and meaningful wildlife experiences, located just 45 minutes by boat from Entebbe on the tranquil waters of Lake Victoria. Established in 1998 with the vision and support of renowned primatologist Dr. Jane Goodall, the sanctuary was created as a refuge for orphaned and rescued chimpanzees—most victims of illegal wildlife trafficking or the bushmeat trade. Today, 52 chimpanzees live in this protected, semi-wild island environment, cared for by a dedicated team of caregivers, some of whom have been with the sanctuary since its founding.
The Journey Across the Equator
Your adventure begins with a scenic boat ride across Africa’s largest lake. As you cruise toward Ngamba, the guide marks a special moment—crossing the equator on water. It’s a rare opportunity to capture a photo, learn about hemispheric distinctions, and feel the excitement of approaching a conservation haven. Along the way, you might spot local fishermen casting nets or see African fish eagles soaring above.
Chimpanzee Encounters That Touch the Soul
Upon arrival, you’ll be welcomed into the sanctuary’s visitor center, where an expert guide explains the daily routines, rescue stories, and care protocols of the chimps. One of the most memorable parts of the visit is the feeding session, held twice daily. From a raised viewing platform, you can toss fruits and vegetables directly to the chimpanzees and watch them express an astonishing range of social, emotional, and playful behaviors. You’ll see dominant males asserting hierarchy, infants mimicking their mothers, and friends grooming one another—all set against the lush backdrop of a tropical forest.
Enriching Activities & Meaningful Support
There’s more to Ngamba than meets the eye. Visitors can:
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Enjoy a freshly prepared lunch on the island surrounded by pristine nature.
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Participate in a volunteer program (from a few days to a few weeks), assisting with food prep, enrichment, forest cleanup, veterinary support, and record-keeping.
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Join a sunset cruise or fishing safari around the island.
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Walk through the sanctuary’s protected forest zone with a local guide to spot native birdlife and learn about habitat conservation.
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Visit nearby fishing villages as part of cultural exchange and community support.
For those seeking a more immersive experience, overnight stays allow guests to experience sunrise feedings, evening nature sounds, and deeper behind-the-scenes access to conservation efforts.
Support Beyond the Visit
Ngamba’s “Adopt a Chimp” and “Feed the Chimps” initiatives offer guests a way to contribute to the sanctuary’s sustainability long after their visit. With over 30,000 kg of fresh food provided annually, these programs help fund veterinary care, forest enrichment, and education programs for local schools.
The sanctuary is managed by the Chimpanzee Sanctuary & Wildlife Conservation Trust and supported by global conservation partners. In addition to its chimpanzee care, Ngamba supports wide-reaching community education, conflict mitigation, and field research efforts across Uganda. Their outreach includes youth programs, wildlife clubs, environmental drama, and women-led conservation initiatives.
Why Ngamba Matters
Visiting Ngamba is far more than a day trip. It’s an intimate window into the lives of our closest animal relatives. It’s a chance to witness firsthand what responsible tourism can achieve when guided by compassion, ethics, and science. And it’s a meaningful contribution to the long-term protection of chimpanzees and their natural habitats.
Whether you spend a few hours or stay overnight, Ngamba Island leaves a lasting impression. With every visit, you help ensure that these extraordinary animals—and the humans working so tirelessly for them—continue to thrive.
Ready to visit Ngamba Island?
Back to the Source Tours can organize half-day, full-day, or overnight visits with seamless transfers from Entebbe. Add this soul-stirring sanctuary to your Ugandan adventure and be part of something extraordinary.
For more info please visit: https://ngambaisland.org
