A Sanctuary Built on Care, Conservation, and Second Chances
At Back to the Source Tours, we design experiences that connect travel with conservation across East Africa. Learn more about our African safari tours and East Africa travel experiences.
There are few experiences in East Africa that feel as personal and impactful as visiting Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary on Lake Victoria. Located just a short boat ride from Entebbe, this protected island is home to rescued and orphaned chimpanzees, each with a story that reflects both loss and resilience.
This experience can easily be included within broader Uganda safari packages, allowing you to combine chimpanzee conservation with wildlife safaris, gorilla trekking, and cultural experiences across the country.
We consider Ngamba Island a powerful reminder that travel, when done thoughtfully, can directly support conservation and the future of wildlife.
2026 First Quarter Updates
A Recent Milestone in Chimpanzee Care
The work happening on Ngamba Island continues to evolve, and recent months have been especially significant.
The youngest male chimpanzee, known as Afrika’s son, has successfully been integrated into the forest after a carefully managed three-month process. This journey included gradual introductions to socially tolerant females, followed by interactions with dominant males, ensuring his long-term safety and social stability.
This milestone reflects the sanctuary’s commitment to excellence in primate rehabilitation and welfare, and it is one of many reasons why a visit here carries real meaning.
Resilience in the Face of Nature
On Wednesday, January 31, 2026, Ngamba Island faced a powerful storm that caused serious damage to key infrastructure, including the high-security enclosure and perimeter fencing that protects both chimpanzees and staff.
What followed was a remarkable demonstration of resilience and community support.
Today, the sanctuary is fully restored. The perimeter fence has been reinforced, the high-security enclosure rebuilt, and chimpanzees like Mawa and Asega have returned to their daily routines, seemingly undisturbed by the disruption.
This recovery was made possible through global partnerships and contributions, a reminder that every visitor, every donation, and every shared story plays a role in keeping Ngamba Island a safe haven.
What to Expect: Half-Day and Full-Day Visits
A visit to Ngamba Island can easily be incorporated into your journey through Uganda, whether you have a few hours or a full day.
Half-Day Experience
Perfect for travelers with limited time, a half-day visit allows you to:
- Observe chimpanzee feeding sessions
- Learn about individual rescue stories
- Engage with expert caregivers and guides
- Understand the conservation challenges facing chimpanzees in Uganda
Full-Day Experience
A full-day visit offers a deeper connection and a more relaxed pace:
- Extended time observing chimpanzees
- Educational talks and behind-the-scenes insights
- Opportunities to explore the island’s natural environment
- Birdlife viewing, including the ever-present weaver birds
Many travelers include this visit as part of a longer journey through Uganda, combining it with other Uganda safari itineraries that explore national parks and primate habitats.
Overnight Stays: A Rare and Intimate Experience
For those looking to go beyond a day visit, Ngamba Island offers eco-friendly cottages that allow guests to stay overnight.
Waking up here is unlike anywhere else.
The sounds of chimpanzees echoing through the forest, the gentle movement of Lake Victoria, and the activity of birds at sunrise create an atmosphere that is both peaceful and deeply grounding.
Overnight guests can:
- Experience early morning and evening moments on the island
- Enjoy quieter, more intimate encounters with the sanctuary environment
- Participate in extended educational sessions
- Fully disconnect and immerse themselves in nature
This is not just a stay. It is a chance to connect with conservation in a meaningful way.
Your Visit Directly Supports the Chimpanzees
Every visit to Ngamba Island contributes directly to:
- Daily feeding and medical care of the chimpanzees
- Maintenance of the sanctuary
- Conservation education programs
- Community outreach and habitat protection initiatives
The sanctuary is managed by Chimpanzee Trust, whose work extends beyond the island into the broader Albertine Rift.
Protecting the “Corridors of Hope”
One of the most important ongoing initiatives is the protection of forest corridors in Uganda’s Albertine Rift, particularly in the Budongo–Bugoma landscape. Through education, reforestation, and community partnerships, the Chimpanzee Trust is working to ensure coexistence between people and chimpanzees.
This includes:
- School outreach programs
- Community engagement initiatives
- Conservation radio campaigns
- Reforestation and afforestation efforts
These programs ensure that protecting chimpanzees is not only environmentally necessary, but also beneficial to local communities.
Even If You Cannot Visit, You Can Still Make an Impact
Not every traveler has time to include Ngamba Island in their itinerary, and that is understood.
However, there are still meaningful ways to contribute.
The sanctuary maintains a wishlist of essential items needed for daily operations and chimpanzee care. Supporting these efforts helps ensure that the chimpanzees continue to receive the highest standard of care.
Why This Experience Matters
Chimpanzees share nearly 98% of human DNA. Standing just meters away from them, observing their behavior, expressions, and interactions, is a deeply humbling experience.
Ngamba Island is not about entertainment. It is about understanding, respect, and connection.
It is about recognizing that conservation is not separate from us, it is something we are part of.
You can explore ways to support here: https://chimpanzeetrust.org/donate-now/wish-list Whether through a visit or a contribution, your support plays a role in protecting one of our closest relatives.
Plan Your Visit with Back to the Source Tours
At Back to the Source Tours, we integrate Ngamba Island into thoughtfully designed itineraries across Uganda, whether as a half-day experience, a full-day visit, or an overnight stay.
We handle the logistics, timing, and coordination so that your visit is seamless, meaningful, and aligned with responsible travel practices.
Plan your Ngamba Island experience as part of your Uganda journey and be part of a conservation story that continues to make a difference.
Ngamba Island is often included within our Uganda safari packages, creating a well-rounded itinerary that blends wildlife, conservation, and cultural experiences.
Other Activities and Tours
Check out the links below for pairing activities. The activities are in and around Entebbe which is where you catch the boat to go to Ngamba and the tours are a great combination.
Things to do in Entebbe, Uganda
Plan this experience with Back to the Source Tours: East Africa Tour Packages, East Africa Group Tours, and/or Request Your East Africa Safari Quote.