Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Lodge vs Sambiya River Lodge
Both offer chimpanzee trekking · Updated 2026
Quick Answer
Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Lodge is a comfort ($$$) in Bugala Island, often chosen by wildlife enthusiasts and families with children. Sambiya River Lodge is a comfort ($$$) in South Bank, well suited for families and first-time safari visitors. They are in different areas: Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Lodge in Bugala Island and Sambiya River Lodge in South Bank.
Option A
Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Lodge
Bugala Island · Victoria Lake Islands
Overnight accommodation at the Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Sanctuary on Lake Victoria. Day visits and overnight stays allow close observation of 49 rescued chimpanzees.
Option B
Sambiya River Lodge
South Bank · Murchison Falls National Park
A comfort lodge on the south bank of Murchison Falls National Park, set in natural surroundings near the park entrance.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Lodge | Sambiya River Lodge | |
|---|---|---|
| Category | Comfort | Comfort |
| Price Level | $$$ Comfort | $$$ Comfort |
| Sector / Area | Bugala Island | South Bank |
| National Park | — | Murchison Falls National Park |
| Distance to Park | — | — |
| Rooms | Sanctuary Accommodation | Family Cottage, Standard Room |
| Dining | Simple meals are provided for overnight guests. The focus is on the sanctuary ex... | The Sambiya Restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Meals draw on Uganda... |
| Highlights | 49 rescued chimpanzees on a 100-acre island45-minute boat ride from EntebbeDay visits and overnight stays availableOperated by the Chimpanzee Trust (formerly CSWCT) | Self-described #1 hotel in Murchison Falls NPSwimming pools on-site15-20 min drive to Top of the Falls viewpoint25 min to Paraa boat landing |
| Best For | Wildlife enthusiastsFamilies with childrenTravelers with limited time | FamiliesFirst-time safari visitorsAdventure seekers |
| Activities | Chimpanzee feeding observationGuided sanctuary tourOvernight chimp experienceBird watching on the island | Game drivesBoat cruise to Murchison FallsHiking to Top of the FallsNature walks |
| Website | Visit website | Visit website |
Choose Ngamba Island Chimpanzee Lodge if you...
- are looking for wildlife enthusiasts
- are looking for families with children
- are looking for travelers with limited time
- value 49 rescued chimpanzees on a 100-acre island
- value 45-minute boat ride from entebbe
Choose Sambiya River Lodge if you...
- are looking for families
- are looking for first-time safari visitors
- are looking for adventure seekers
- value self-described #1 hotel in murchison falls np
- value swimming pools on-site
Still not sure?
Tell us your dates, budget and preferences — we help you choose.