Chimpanzees: Our Closest Living Relatives

Chimpanzees, or chimps, are among the most intelligent and captivating animals on the planet. Sharing about 98.7% of our DNA, they are our closest living relatives in the animal kingdom. Native to the forests and savannas of equatorial Africa, chimpanzees offer a rare and powerful glimpse into the roots of human behavior. Observing them in the wild is not just an adventure—it’s a profound connection to our evolutionary past.

Types of Chimpanzees

Chimpanzees belong to the species Pan troglodytes, which has several subspecies based on their geographic range:

Central Chimpanzee (Pan troglodytes troglodytes)
Found in Gabon, Cameroon, the Republic of Congo, and parts of Central Africa. This is the most numerous subspecies.

Western Chimpanzee (Pan troglodytes verus)
Found in countries like Guinea, Sierra Leone, and Ivory Coast. This subspecies is critically endangered due to habitat destruction and hunting.

Nigeria-Cameroon Chimpanzee (Pan troglodytes ellioti)
The rarest and most threatened subspecies, found only in the forested border regions between Nigeria and Cameroon.

Eastern Chimpanzee (Pan troglodytes schweinfurthii)
Found in Uganda, Rwanda, western Tanzania, and parts of the Democratic Republic of Congo. This is the subspecies most commonly encountered on chimpanzee trekking tours in East Africa.

The Way of Life: Chimpanzee Behavior and Social Structure

Chimpanzees live in complex social groups known as communities, which can include up to 150 individuals. These communities are dynamic, with smaller subgroups constantly forming and breaking apart throughout the day. Leadership is typically held by an alpha male, who must use both strength and political strategy to maintain his position.

Chimpanzees are omnivores, feeding on fruit, leaves, insects, and occasionally hunting smaller animals such as monkeys. They use tools—sticks to fish for termites, stones to crack nuts, and leaves to soak up water. This tool use highlights their problem-solving abilities and cultural learning, which varies from group to group.

Communication is also highly developed, involving vocalizations, facial expressions, gestures, and even laughter. Mothers form strong bonds with their infants, and these family ties can last a lifetime.

Where to See Chimpanzees in the Wild

Chimpanzee trekking allows travelers to experience their wild behavior up close. Top destinations include:

Uganda:

Kibale Forest National Park – the top destination for chimp trekking in Africa, known for high success rates.

Budongo Forest – located near Murchison Falls National Park.

Kyambura Gorge – a scenic, forested ravine in Queen Elizabeth National Park.

Rwanda:

Nyungwe Forest National Park – an ancient rainforest with a large, habituated chimpanzee population.

Tanzania:

Gombe Stream National Park – where Jane Goodall conducted her groundbreaking research.

Mahale Mountains National Park – one of the most remote and pristine chimpanzee habitats.

Democratic Republic of Congo:

Tayna Nature Reserve and parts of the eastern DRC are home to several chimpanzee communities, though tourism is more limited due to accessibility.

Chimpanzee Trekking and Habituation

Just like gorillas, chimpanzees can also be visited through trekking and habituation experiences.

Chimpanzee Trekking typically involves a 1–3 hour forest walk and up to one hour with the chimpanzees. It’s fast-paced and exciting, as chimps often move through the forest in noisy, active groups.

Chimpanzee Habituation allows visitors to spend more time (up to 4 hours) with a semi-habituated group, observing natural behaviors as they get used to human presence. This is an ideal experience for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers.

Experience the Wild With Experts

Chimpanzee trekking is one of the most rewarding wildlife experiences in Africa. Whether you’re walking through the misty forests of Uganda or exploring the hills of Rwanda, watching chimpanzees interact, communicate, and display emotions is truly unforgettable.

Looking to plan a chimpanzee trekking or habituation tour?

Get in touch with WildHorn Africa—your expert partner in primate adventures. With experienced guides, customized itineraries, and a commitment to conservation, WildHorn Africa will help you connect with these remarkable creatures in the most meaningful way.

Contact WildHorn Africa today to start your chimpanzee adventure!