Ngamba Island is located in Lake Victoria and includes Kiima, Ngamba Island, Nsadzi, Bulago and Damba Islands, which is part of the Koome group of Islands. The Island is divided into two equal parts, which are separated by an electronic fence. The Island consists of approximately 100 acres, with 98 acres forested and 2 acres separated from the human camp. The northern part of the Island was not inhabited until 1997 by a local fishing community which had cleared approximately 2 acres of the forest and selectively logged large trees from the more proximal parts of the forest. The Island provides an excellent secondary forest habitat for the Chimpanzees and other wildlife species which including fruit bats, spiders, fish eagles, otter and monitor lizards.
Chimpanzee viewing Times
Ngamba Chimpanzee Island cannot sustain a large community of Chimpanzees in terms of their nutritional requirements, and feeding from visitor platforms is at 11:00 Am and 2:230 PM daily. Visitors are requested to arrive at the Island atleast 30 minutes before feeding time in order to receive at the Island at least 30 minutes before feeding times in order to receive an introduction from our staff.
Chimpanzees Names
Bahati, Baluku, Baron, Becky, Bili, Bwambale, Cindy, Cocoa, Connie, Eddy, Ikuru, Indi, Kaleme, Katie, Kazahukire, Kidogo, Kikyo, Kisembo, Kyewuunyo, Maisko, Mawa, Megan, Medina, Minni, Nagoti, Nakuu, Namukisa, Nani, Natasha, Ndyakira, Nkuumwa, Okech, peace, Rambo, Robbie, Rutoto, Sally, Sara, Sophie, Sunday, Tumbo, Umugenzi, Umutama.
Fees
If you are to participate in the integration program, either outside enclosure or walking in the forest with the chimpanzees, you are required to pay approximately US $ 350 per person in case you are a repeat client. Partaking in this program is a theme of age restrictions and proof of required immunizations/tests with verified physical ability. One-on-one chimp tracking experience in the outside enclosure is available to full day and /or overnight visitors, as it is very possible in the morning or the evening. The walk in the forest with chimpanzees is limited to overnight guests as it is conducted only in the early morning. In case you are signing up for the forest walk,you must be aware that there is no guarantee that this activity will be possible due to logistical issues with the older chimpanzees staying overnight in the forest.
How to get to Ngamba Island
Different types of boats lead you to Ngamba Island and can be booked through Ngamba Island reservations office. Speedboat travel from the dock in Entebbe to Ngamba Island is nearly 45-50 minutes; travel by traditional motorized canoe which takes approximately one and half to two hours time. Independent operations also offer visits to the Island. You can arrange your own transport and make sure that you check availability with Ngamba Island reservations office to avoid disappointment. We therefore strongly recommend you to book your journey directly with Ngamba Island reservations office or travel with a reputable company to ensure safety. No matter which method you choose for travel, pre-purchased entrance tickets from Ngamba Island Reservations Office must be shown upon arrival at the island.
Food and Drinks
Available drinks include; beers, mineral water and sodas for sale on the Island and from the boat. Lunch options are either to take a picnic lunch from your hotel or to have the local traditional lunch prepared on the Island by an organized community based women group.
What to wear and pack
You are advised to dress casually: T-shirts or swimsuit and shorts are fine. Be required to get wet from the spray as the lake can get quite choppy. Carry with you a sweater or light jacket in case it is windy. Sandals or trainers are recommended and bring as much sun protection as possible, hats, sunglasses.You are advised not to forget your camera for those entire close –up shots and binoculars if you are keen on bird-life.