Ngamba Island is located on Lake Victoria, about 23 kilometers southwest of Entebbe, Uganda. It was established as a sanctuary for orphaned and confiscated chimpanzees. Here’s some information about Ngamba Island:
Founders
Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary was founded by the Chimpanzee Sanctuary and Wildlife Conservation Trust (CSWCT) in 1998. The organization aims to provide a safe and natural habitat for rescued chimpanzees and raise awareness about their conservation.
Reason for establishment
Ngamba Island was established to address the growing issue of orphaned and confiscated chimpanzees in Uganda. Many of these chimpanzees were victims of illegal wildlife trade, habitat destruction, or were kept as pets. The sanctuary provides a permanent home for these chimpanzees, where they can live in a protected environment and receive proper care.
What to see
Ngamba Island offers a unique opportunity to observe chimpanzees in a semi-wild setting. Visitors can witness the chimpanzees’ natural behaviors, including feeding, playing, and socializing. The sanctuary also has a visitor center that provides educational materials and exhibits about chimpanzees and their conservation.
What to do
There are several activities you can engage in during a visit to Ngamba Island. These include:
- Chimpanzee Feeding: Visitors can participate in the chimpanzee feeding experience. Under the guidance of the sanctuary staff, you can help prepare and distribute food to the chimpanzees, which allows for an up-close encounter with these incredible primates.
- Nature Walks: Ngamba Island has forested areas where you can take guided nature walks and learn about the island’s flora and fauna. It’s an opportunity to appreciate the natural beauty of the island and its surroundings.
- Boat Rides: Getting to Ngamba Island requires a boat ride from Entebbe. During the journey, you can enjoy the scenic views of Lake Victoria and its islands.
How to get there
To reach Ngamba Island, you need to take a boat from Entebbe, which is located near the capital city of Kampala. The boat trips are organized by the Chimpanzee Sanctuary and Wildlife Conservation Trust, and they depart from Entebbe’s waterfront. It’s advisable to make prior arrangements and book your visit to ensure availability.
The boat ride takes approximately 45 minutes to one hour, depending on weather conditions and the type of boat used. Once you arrive at Ngamba Island, you can spend the day exploring the sanctuary and engaging in the various activities available.
Visiting Ngamba Island provides a unique opportunity to support chimpanzee conservation efforts while enjoying an unforgettable experience with these remarkable primates.
