When most people think of primates in Uganda, two stars usually steal the spotlight: the powerful Mountain Gorilla and the playful Chimpanzee. But what if we told you they’re just the beginning of the show?
Uganda is home to over 16 species of primates, ranging from the loud and cheeky olive baboon to rare forest dwellers like the golden monkey and Uganda mangabey. With misty jungles, open savannas, and ancient forests, Uganda is truly a primate lover’s paradise.
Whether you’re dreaming of a once-in-a-lifetime gorilla trek or curious about spotting monkeys from the car window, you’re in for an unforgettable wild adventure. Let’s explore Uganda’s full cast of primates—great and small.
The Great Apes of Uganda
Mountain Gorilla
The undeniable superstar. Trekking to see a mountain gorilla in the wild is one of the most moving wildlife encounters on Earth. Found in Bwindi Impenetrable and Mgahinga Gorilla National Parks. Learn more in our complete guide to Mountain Gorilla trekking.
Chimpanzee
Our closest cousins, chimps are social, noisy, and thrilling to observe. Trek them in Kibale Forest, Kalinzu, Kyambura Gorge, or Budongo Forest. Learn more in our guide to chimpanzee trekking.
The Monkeys of Uganda
Olive Baboon
You’ll likely meet these expressive primates on any road through a national park. Baboons live in large troops and have a fascinating social structure. They’re smart, sometimes cheeky, and always entertaining.
Golden Monkey
Endemic to the Albertine Rift and only found in Mgahinga Gorilla NP—these bright-eyed beauties bounce through the bamboo forest like jungle acrobats.
Black-and-White Colobus
Elegant and quiet, these are often seen leaping from tree to tree with their long, fluffy tails streaming behind.
Red Colobus
More elusive and threatened, these social monkeys are often spotted in forest canopies.
Red-Tailed Monkey
A colorful and common sight, often alongside chimps. Their rust-colored tails make them easy to spot.
Blue Monkey
Shy and swift, these forest dwellers are often heard before they’re seen.
Patas Monkey
Africa’s fastest primate, built for the savanna and often seen running upright across open ground.
L’Hoest’s Monkey
Look for their striking white beard and curious stare—usually spotted in montane forests.
De Brazza’s Monkey
A rare swamp dweller with a wise-looking white beard and orange crown.
Grey-Cheeked Mangabey
A loud, somewhat shaggy monkey found in forested areas, especially Kibale.
Uganda Mangabey (Endemic)
A recently distinguished species found only in Uganda—a real highlight for primate enthusiasts.
Vervet Monkey
Adaptable and cheeky, vervets are commonly seen near lodges and along park roads.
Nocturnal Primates
Potto
A slow-moving, secretive primate with a gentle look and a powerful grip—best spotted on night walks.
Galago (Bush Babies)
Tiny, wide-eyed and agile—they communicate with high-pitched calls and leap incredible distances
list of primates in Uganda:
Here’s your primate checklist for a Ugandan safari:
- Black-and-white colobus
- Red colobus
- Red tailed monkey
- Blue monkey
- Pattas monkey
- L’Houest monkey
- Vervet monkey
- De brazzas monkey
- Grey cheeked mangabey
- Uganda mangabey (endemic to Uganda)
- Golden monkey
- Baboon
- Potto
- Galago (bush babies)
- Chimpanzee
- Mountain Gorilla
Let’s see how some of Uganda’s primates look
Black & white colobus monkey
Baboon
Pattas monkey
Red colobus monkey
Red tailed monkey
Blue monkey
Golden Monkey
Mountain Gorilla
Vervet monkey
Chimpanzee
Where to See Uganda’s Primates
From short 3-day gorilla safaris to 14-day adventures packed with chimps, monkeys, and golden species—you have options!
Mountain Gorillas, Golden Monkey and chimpanzees are seen on organized treks. While traveling around Uganda and trekking in the forests you will most likely spot several different other primate species. On the roads while on a Uganda safari you can meet troops of baboons and in the treetops you might see black-and-white colobus or red tailed monkey. If you have a deep primate interest contact us and we tailor make a journey for you.
Some of our most popular tours with primates include:
On this short safari you will experience the highlight of meeting the mountain gorillas of Uganda. During your gorilla trekking you will walk through the beautiful jungle and spend one hour with the gorillas of the misty mountains.
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During this safari we focus on the amazing primates you can see in Uganda’s jungles. You trek chimps in Kibale Forest (option for chimps habituation experience) & Kyambura Gorge, Mountain Gorillas in Bwindi and Golden Monkey in Mgahinga. Along the way you’ll likely see baboons, red tailed monkey and black & white colobus as well.
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14 days Uganda safari – hikes & primates
Come for a 14 days Uganda safari with focus on hikes and primates. You will do a 3-days hike in the scenic Rwenzori mountains as well as a hike to the top of Mt. Mgahinga Volcano. You enter the jungle to meet primates on treks to see chimps, mountain gorillas & golden monkeys.
Make It a Journey, Not Just a List
At Mamaland Safaris, we don’t just help you tick off species. We create immersive, responsible experiences that connect you with Uganda’s incredible wildlife and culture. Our community-based approach supports local conservation and gives you a deeper understanding of each step of the journey.
Let us help you plan your tailor-made primate safari in Uganda. Your safari, your way!
