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Frequently Asked Questions About Kenya & Tanzania Safari Costs

Frequently Asked Questions About Kenya & Tanzania Safari Costs

What is a realistic Kenya & Tanzania safari cost for a week?

A realistic cost for a 6–7 day Kenya & Tanzania safari ranges from $2,000 to $6,000+ per person, depending on your travel style. For more details, check our Frequently Asked Questions About Kenya & Tanzania Safari Costs.

  • Budget safari: $2,000 – $2,800 per person
  • Mid-range safari: $2,800 – $4,500 per person
  • Luxury safari: $4,500 – $7,000+ per person

This usually includes accommodation, a private safari vehicle, guide, park fees, meals, and transfers.

Costs vary based on the season, the parks you visit (like Serengeti National Park or Ngorongoro Crater), and whether you travel privately or in a group.

What is the cheapest month for a Kenya & Tanzania safari?

The most affordable time is during the low season (April and May).

This is the long rainy season, so you’ll find:

  • Lower lodge prices
  • Fewer tourists
  • Better availability

To better understand the expenses associated with your trip, here are some Frequently Asked Questions About Kenya & Tanzania Safari Costs.

However, some roads can be muddy, and wildlife viewing can be less predictable. For many travelers, November (short rains) is a better balance of price and experience.

For more details, check our article on Frequently Asked Questions About Kenya & Tanzania Safari Costs.

What does the safari cost include?

Most Kenya & Tanzania safari packages typically include:

  • Accommodation (lodges or tented camps)
  • Private 4×4 safari vehicle
  • Professional driver-guide
  • Park entry fees
  • All meals during the safari
  • Drinking water during game drives
  • Airport transfers

Some itineraries may also include domestic flights, especially for remote parks.

Always check what’s excluded — that’s where surprises happen.

How much does a Kenya & Tanzania safari cost per person per day?

On average:

  • Budget: $250 – $400 per person/day
  • Mid-range: $400 – $700 per person/day
  • Luxury: $700 – $1,200+ per person/day

This is a useful way to compare quotes. If something is far below this range, it’s worth asking what’s missing.

When is the cheapest time to go on a Kenya & Tanzania safari?

The cheapest time is the rainy season (March to May).

Prices drop because demand is lower, but you’ll trade off:

  • Weather conditions
  • Road access in some areas
  • Slightly more challenging wildlife viewing

If budget matters but you still want a great experience, consider shoulder seasons (November or early March).

Is a Kenya & Tanzania safari worth the money?

For most travelers — yes, absolutely.

A safari in Kenya & Tanzania is not just a holiday, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Seeing wildlife in places like the Serengeti National Park or the Ngorongoro Crater is something few places in the world can match.

The key is planning it properly so your time, route, and accommodation match your expectations and budget.

What extra costs should I budget for on a Kenya & Tanzania safari?

In addition to your main safari package, budget for:

  • International flights
  • Visa fees (usually $50–$100)
  • Travel insurance
  • Tips for your guide and lodge staff
  • Drinks (alcoholic and soft drinks at some lodges)
  • Optional activities (like hot air balloon safaris)
  • Personal expenses

A good estimate is an extra $300–$800 per person depending on your travel style.

Can I do a Kenya & Tanzania safari on a budget?

Yes — but expectations need to match the budget.

Budget safaris usually involve:

  • Basic lodges or public campsites
  • Shared vehicles or small groups
  • Simpler meals

You’ll still see incredible wildlife, but with fewer comforts compared to mid-range or luxury safaris.

What is the difference between a budget, mid-range, and luxury safari in Kenya & Tanzania?

The biggest differences are comfort, location, and exclusivity.

  • Budget: Basic accommodation, shared experiences, lower cost
  • Mid-range: Comfortable lodges/tented camps, private safari possible, best value for most travelers
  • Luxury: High-end lodges, prime locations, personalized service, fewer crowds

Interestingly, wildlife viewing is often similar — the difference is how you experience it.

Do I need travel insurance for a Kenya & Tanzania safari?

Yes — it’s strongly recommended.

Travel insurance should cover:

  • Medical emergencies
  • Trip cancellations
  • Evacuation (important in remote safari areas)

It’s a small cost compared to the overall trip and provides peace of mind.

Are laundry services and drinks included at tented camps and lodges?

It depends on the property.

  • Mid-range lodges: Laundry may be available at an extra cost; drinks usually not included
  • Luxury camps: Laundry is often included; drinks may be included depending on the package

Always check in advance to avoid surprises.

How much should I budget for tips on a safari?

Tipping is customary on safari.

A general guideline:

  • Driver-guide: $20–$30 per day per group
  • Lodge staff: $10–$20 per day (shared tip box)

This isn’t mandatory, but it’s an important part of the local safari culture and supports the people who make your experience possible.

Safari travel insurance plan in Kenya or Tanzania 

Safari travel insurance plan in Kenya or Tanzania 

Kenya or Tanzania, the “best” insurance depends on your specific activities—like climbing Kilimanjaro or taking a hot air balloon ride—and your budget. Because safaris often involve remote locations where medical facilities are limited, emergency medical evacuation is the most critical feature to look for. Additionally, considering a Safari travel insurance plan in Kenya or Tanzania can provide peace of mind for adventurous travelers. It’s essential to compare different plans and understand their coverage limits, exclusions, and any additional perks offered. For example, some plans might include coverage for lost luggage, trip cancellations, or coverage for natural disasters. Understanding what each plan includes will help ensure that you choose the right insurance for your specific travel needs.

These companies are frequently recommended by safari experts and travelers for their reliable coverage in East Africa: 

When selecting your Safari travel insurance plan in Kenya or Tanzania, consider your activity level. If you plan on participating in high-risk activities such as zip-lining, scuba diving, or rock climbing, make sure those are covered in your policy. Some insurers offer tailored packages that cater specifically to safari adventures, providing specific benefits aimed at those engaged in thrilling pursuits. Additionally, be mindful of policy exclusions; for example, certain pre-existing medical conditions may not be covered, and this can significantly affect the safety net your insurance provides during your travels.

Researching customer reviews and expert opinions can also be incredibly helpful when selecting an insurance provider. Numerous travel forums and review sites can provide insights from previous travelers who have utilized these insurance services. This firsthand feedback can offer a clearer picture of how claims are handled and the quality of customer service provided. Additionally, some companies may have partnerships with local healthcare facilities, which can expedite the process of receiving care in case of an emergency.

When planning your safari, it’s essential to choose a Safari travel insurance plan in Kenya or Tanzania that meets your needs.

Choosing the Right Safari Travel Insurance Plan in Kenya or Tanzania

Furthermore, while looking at various insurance options, keep an eye out for those that provide 24/7 support. Having access to a dedicated support line can be invaluable when you’re in a foreign country and need immediate assistance. Additionally, consider plans that allow you to customize your coverage based on your travel itinerary. For instance, if you will be visiting multiple countries within East Africa, a multi-country plan might be more beneficial compared to purchasing separate coverage for each destination.

Moreover, understanding the claims process of your insurance provider is crucial. Familiarize yourself with how to file a claim before you leave for your trip. Some insurance companies allow you to submit claims online, while others may require you to call a local representative. Knowing this information in advance can save you time and frustration in the event of an unexpected incident. Always keep a copy of your insurance policy, claim forms, and contact information handy during your travels, so you can act swiftly if needed.

Additionally, consider the coverage options for your personal belongings while on safari. Safaris often involve extensive travel and rugged terrain, and with that comes the possibility of lost or stolen items. Make sure your policy covers personal property loss, and take inventory of valuable items you will be bringing along. Some policies even offer coverage for rental equipment, such as cameras or outdoor gear, which is essential for capturing those unforgettable safari moments.

As you examine different policies, you might also come across options that cover trip interruptions. Whether due to personal emergencies or unforeseen circumstances like natural disasters, trip interruption coverage can help mitigate the financial impact of changing your travel plans. Understanding how each plan addresses these scenarios will help ensure you have comprehensive coverage that aligns with your travel itinerary.

Finally, don’t overlook the importance of reading the fine print. Policies can have specific stipulations regarding coverage limits, deductibles, and exclusions. Take the time to thoroughly understand what is included and what is not, as this knowledge can prove indispensable should you need to utilize your insurance. This diligence will help you avoid surprises and ensure a smoother experience during your safari adventure.

Essentially, the right Safari travel insurance plan in Kenya or Tanzania can significantly enhance your overall travel experience, providing not just safety but also confidence as you embark on your adventure. With the right coverage, you can fully immerse yourself in the beauty of the Serengeti, the majesty of Mount Kilimanjaro, or the pristine beaches of Zanzibar, knowing that you are safeguarded against potential risks. Make informed decisions, and don’t hesitate to consult with a travel insurance expert if you have any doubts about which policy is best for your specific needs.

  • World Nomads: A favorite for active and adventurous travelers. They cover over 200 adventure activities, including game drives and bush walks.
  • Allianz Global Assistance: Best for families and luxury travelers. Their “OneTrip” plans offer high benefit limits for trip cancellation and medical emergencies.
  • AMREF Flying Doctors: Highly recommended as supplemental emergency rescue insurance. For about $24, they provide air ambulance evacuation from remote bush airstrips directly to advanced hospitals in Nairobi.
  • Travel Guard by AIG: Known for comprehensive medical coverage (up to $1,000,000) and reliable 24/7 global assistance.
  • Seven Corners: Rated highly for comprehensive trip protection plans that cover everything from baggage loss to political evacuations.
  • Global Rescue or Medjet: These are membership programs rather than traditional insurance, focusing specifically on getting you to your home hospital if you are hospitalized while t

Essential Coverage to Check

Before buying, ensure your policy specifically includes these pillars:

  1. High Medical Evacuation Limits: Aim for at least $500,000. Remote rescues from places like the Serengeti or Masai Mara can cost tens of thousands of dollars.
  2. Adventure Activity Coverage: Confirm that “safari activities,” “game drives,” or “guided bush walks” are explicitly covered.
  3. Special Add-ons:
    • Kilimanjaro: Standard plans often exclude “high-altitude trekking” above 3,000 meters. You need a specific add-on for a Kili climb.
    • Hot Air Balloons: Check if hot air ballooning over the plains is included or requires an “adventure pack”.
  4. Zanzibar Requirement: If your trip includes Zanzibar, the local government currently requires all international visitors to have mandatory health insurance specifically from the Zanzibar Insurance Corporation (ZIC). 

Are you planning to include Mount Kilimanjaro or a visit to Zanzibar in your itinerary?

In summary, while planning your safari adventure, make sure to evaluate all aspects of a Safari travel insurance plan in Kenya or Tanzania. Look for comprehensive coverage, understand exclusions, and ensure that your insurance fits the activities you plan to engage in. Having the right protection can make a significant difference in your travel experience, allowing you to focus on creating unforgettable memories in one of the most breathtaking regions of the world.

Itinerary Choices and Their Impact on Cost

Itinerary Choices and Their Impact on Cost

Where you go — and how you structure your safari — has a direct impact on the total cost and your itinerary choices and their impact on cost. Understanding itinerary choices and their impact on cost is crucial for maximizing your experience and managing expenses.

Northern vs. Southern Circuit: Which Costs More?

Tanzania’s most popular safari route is the Northern Circuit, which includes the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and Tarangire. This is where around 90% of first-time safari travelers go — and for good reason: it offers the highest concentration of wildlife and can be done entirely by road.

Itinerary choices and their impact on cost can vary greatly based on the areas you select to explore during your safari.

The importance of itinerary choices and their impact on cost cannot be understated when planning your trip.

The Southern Circuit — including Ruaha and Nyerere (Selous) — is more remote, less crowded, and wilder in feel.

While park fees in the south can sometimes be slightly lower, the overall cost is often higher. This is mainly because your itinerary choices and their impact on cost must factor in:

  • You typically need domestic flights between parks
  • Lodges are more remote and logistically expensive to operate

As a general guide:

  • 7-day Northern Circuit safari: $2,000 – $3,500 per person
  • 7-day Southern Circuit safari: $2,500 – $4,000+ per person

Understanding itinerary choices and their impact on cost can help you make informed decisions for your safari adventure.

For most first-time visitors, the Northern Circuit offers the best balance of cost, wildlife density, and accessibility.

If seeing the Great Migration is a priority, timing your trip correctly within the Serengeti is key — this can significantly affect both experience and price.

Itinerary choices and their impact on cost are essential considerations for travelers looking to budget effectively.

When evaluating your experience, remember that itinerary choices and their impact on cost will influence your overall satisfaction.

Itinerary choices and their impact on cost can significantly affect your travel plans, particularly if you have specific destinations in mind.

Adding Optional Activities

Optional activities, while exciting, also relate to itinerary choices and their impact on cost.

Game drives are the core of any safari, but there are several optional experiences that can elevate your trip. These are usually not included in standard packages.

  • Hot Air Balloon Safari (Serengeti): ~$599 per person
    A sunrise flight over the plains — one of the most memorable safari experiences.
  • Night Game Drive: $150 – $200 per person
    Available in select parks to spot nocturnal wildlife.
  • Walking Safari (e.g., Ndutu / private concessions):
    Offers a completely different, on-foot perspective with a trained guide.
  • Ngorongoro Crater Descent Fee: $295 per vehicle
    This is typically included in safari packages, but it explains why Ngorongoro days are more expensive.

The Cost of Cultural Experiences

Cultural visits — such as visiting a Maasai community — can add meaningful context to your safari.

  • Typical cost: $50 – $200 per person
  • These are optional and vary depending on the depth of the experience
  • Fees generally go directly to support the local community

Ultimately, your itinerary choices and their impact on cost can either enhance or limit your safari experience.

Consider how itinerary choices and their impact on cost might affect your ability to participate in cultural experiences during your trip.

When done properly, these visits are respectful, guided, and genuinely enriching.

Plan Your Safari with a Local Expert

👉 Whether you’re comparing options or ready to start planning, we’re here to help with itinerary choices and their impact on cost.

Speak directly with the team that will plan your trip — no middlemen, no guesswork. We’ll help you design a safari that fits your budget, travel style, and expectations with clear, honest advice.

👉 Whether you’re comparing options or ready to start planning, we’re here to help.

📞 Call Our Safari Experts: +255 784 737 413
💬 Chat on WhatsApp: https://wa.me/+255784737413
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✔ Custom itineraries (Tanzania, Kenya & East Africa)
✔ Fast responses — usually within a few hours
✔ Transparent pricing — no hidden costs
✔ Options for budget, mid-range, and luxury safaris

👉 Get Your Custom Safari Quote on WhatsApp

Tipping Guidelines & Extra Costs

Even on an “all-inclusive” safari, there are standard extras to plan for.

Being aware of itinerary choices and their impact on cost will empower you to make better decisions while planning.

Recommended tipping (2026 guidelines):

  • Safari Guide: $50 per vehicle per day
  • Lodge/Camp Staff: $10 – $15 per guest per day (via tip box)

Other common costs:

  • Tanzania Visa:
    • $100 for U.S. citizens
    • $50 for most other nationalities
  • Serengeti Balloon Safari: ~$599 per person
  • Maasai Village Visit: $30 – $50 per person

Practical Money Matters for Your Trip

Most of your safari is prepaid, but you’ll still need cash for certain expenses.

Visa on Arrival

  • U.S. citizens: $100 (credit card accepted)
  • Other nationalities: $50

Tipping

  • Typically given in cash
  • Guides: ~$10 – $20 per person per day
  • Lodge staff: pooled via tip box

Souvenirs

  • Markets and small shops are usually cash-only
  • Larger stores may accept cards

How Much Cash Should You Bring?

A practical guideline is:

$300 – $500 per person for a 7-day safari

Bring:

  • Newer U.S. dollar bills (important)
  • Some Tanzanian Shillings for small purchases

ATMs are available in Arusha before your safari begins.

Frequently Asked Questions About Safari Costs

How much does a safari in Tanzania cost?
A typical Tanzania safari costs between $2,000 and $5,000 per person for 5–7 days, depending on accommodation level, season, and parks visited.

Is the Northern Circuit cheaper than the Southern Circuit?
Yes, in most cases. The Northern Circuit (Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Tarangire) is more accessible and can be done by road, while the Southern Circuit often requires flights, increasing overall cost.

What is included in a safari package?
Most safari packages include accommodation, meals, park fees, guide, vehicle, and game drives. Flights, tips, visas, and optional activities are usually excluded.

Are tips included in safari prices?
No, tipping is not included. It is customary to tip guides and lodge staff separately.

How much cash should I bring on safari?
A good guideline is $300 to $500 per person for a 7-day safari to cover tips, souvenirs, and small expenses.

Is a hot air balloon safari worth it?
Yes — it’s one of the most unique safari experiences, offering a sunrise view over the Serengeti, but it costs around $599 per person.

Always consider how itinerary choices and their impact on cost will influence your overall travel budget.

In summary, your itinerary choices and their impact on cost play a crucial role in shaping your travel experience.

Ultimately, understanding itinerary choices and their impact on cost will lead to a rewarding and memorable journey.

To make the most of your adventure, keep in mind that itinerary choices and their impact on cost can guide your planning process.

Understanding how itinerary choices and their impact on cost will help you prioritize the experiences that matter most to you.

Finally, to optimize your trip, consider the itinerary choices and their impact on cost in your decision-making.

Make sure to reflect on how itinerary choices and their impact on cost resonate with your travel goals.

Take the time to review your itinerary choices and their impact on cost before making final arrangements.

In conclusion, itinerary choices and their impact on cost are pivotal in ensuring your safari meets your expectations.

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Is an African Safari Worth It? (Honest Guide for First-Time Travelers)

Is an African Safari Worth It? (Honest Guide for First-Time Travelers)

Is a Safari Worth the Cost and Effort?

If you’re asking whether an African safari is worth it, you’re not alone. Many wonder, is an African Safari Worth It?

Traveling to Africa for a safari offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature in its rawest form. Many people dream of seeing the Big Five—lions, leopards, elephants, buffalo, and rhinoceros—in their natural habitats. This immersive experience not only provides a thrilling adventure but also an educational experience about wildlife conservation and the ecosystems that sustain these magnificent creatures.

Moreover, an African safari allows you to witness breathtaking landscapes, from the savannahs of Serengeti to the lush wetlands of Okavango Delta. Each location offers its own unique wildlife encounters, making every safari trip distinct and memorable.

This leads us to the central question: is an African Safari Worth It? The answer will vary based on personal preferences and expectations.

For many travelers, a safari is a once-in-a-lifetime experience — but it also involves significant cost, long travel distances, and many decisions.

Additionally, many safari operators are committed to responsible tourism practices. This means that your visit contributes directly to conservation efforts and the welfare of local communities. By choosing an ethical safari, travelers can ensure that their adventure supports wildlife preservation and helps maintain the beauty of these natural landscapes.

The honest answer is:

Yes — a safari is absolutely worth it, if it’s planned properly.

Furthermore, safaris offer a chance to connect with local cultures. Many safari lodges and camps are located in close proximity to indigenous communities, giving visitors an opportunity to learn about their traditions, crafts, and lifestyles. Engaging with local people enhances the travel experience, providing deeper insights into the region’s history and culture.

But not all safaris are the same.

Imagine waking up to the sounds of birds chirping and the distant roar of a lion, or watching a herd of elephants playfully splash in a watering hole. These moments create lasting memories that are often shared for generations, showcasing the beauty and wonder of the natural world.

What Makes a Safari Truly Worth It

A well-planned safari is unlike any other travel experience.

You’re not just visiting a destination — you are fully immersed in nature.

  • Watching lions hunt at sunrise
  • Seeing elephants move across open plains
  • Experiencing the scale of the Serengeti or Masai Mara
  • Being guided by experts who understand wildlife behavior

This is something you simply cannot experience anywhere else in the world.

Why Some Safaris Don’t Feel Worth It

Not every safari delivers the experience people expect.

In our experience, disappointment usually comes from:

  • Choosing the wrong destinations
  • Trying to rush too many places in too few days
  • Booking based only on price, not value
  • Poor lodge locations far from wildlife areas

A safari becomes “not worth it” when it is not designed correctly.

How Much Does a Safari Cost — and Is It Worth the Price?

Safari costs vary depending on the level of comfort and experience:

  • Budget safari: from around $200–$350 per person per day
  • Mid-range safari: from $350–$600 per person per day
  • Luxury safari: from $600+ per person per day

At first glance, this may seem expensive.

When planning your safari, consider the diverse activities available, from hot air balloon rides over the Serengeti to guided walking safaris that bring you closer to the land and its inhabitants. These experiences not only enrich your safari adventure but also provide different perspectives on wildlife and conservation.

Choosing the right safari company is crucial for maximizing your experience. Look for operators with knowledgeable guides, a good reputation, and strong commitments to environmental sustainability. Reading reviews and testimonials can help you make a more informed decision about which safari to book.

But it includes:

  • Accommodation
  • All meals
  • Private guide and vehicle
  • Park fees
  • Game drives

When compared to other luxury travel experiences, a safari often delivers far more value.

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As you evaluate the costs associated with an African safari, it’s important to weigh your expectations against the experiences offered. While budget options can provide adequate experiences, investing in a mid-range or luxury safari can yield richer encounters, more comfortable accommodations, and personalized service that enhances your overall experience.

In conclusion, an African safari is not just a trip; it’s an opportunity to connect deeply with nature, experience the thrill of the wild, and contribute to conservation efforts. Whether you’re watching a pride of lions or marveling at the stunning landscapes, the memories created during a safari are truly priceless. So, when asking yourself, ‘is an African Safari Worth It’, remember that the value of such an experience transcends cost, offering transformative moments that linger long after the trip is over.

Contact us today and our safari specialists will design your African safari adventure, tailored entirely to your travel style, interests, and schedule.

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Chimpanzees in Uganda are locked in a deadly ‘civil war’ after their group split apart — and scientists don’t know why

Chimpanzees in Uganda are locked in a deadly ‘civil war’ after their group split apart — and scientists don’t know why

A group of dark-furred chimpanzees stand in the midst of a lush jungle landscape. One looks at the camera and bares its fangs. .
Chimpanzee males attack one of their own in 2019. | Credit: Aaron Sandel

Wild chimpanzees in Uganda are fighting a rare “civil war,” which seems to have begun when a huge community divided, leading to sustained and deadly conflict between animals that had previously been allies and friends.

Conflicts between different groups of chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes) are relatively common as they compete for key resources, like fruit trees, water supplies and trees that provide suitable nesting material. However, conflicts within previously unified communities are much rarer.

About 50 years ago, primatologist Jane Goodall reported a suspected fission event in a chimpanzee community in Gombe, Tanzania, in which a larger group split into factions; males of one new faction killed an adult female and all six males in the other group over four years. But observations of the behavior were limited, and it was considered an anomaly.

Now, Aaron Sandel, an anthropologist at the University of Texas at Austin, and his colleagues have described another, much bigger, lethal conflict between the members of the Ngogo chimpanzee community in Kibale National Park, Uganda. The work was published Thursday (April 9) in the journal Science.

The chimpanzees there have been studied for about 30 years, providing extensive data on their interrelatedness and behavior. Although they were all part of a big group, they tended to form temporary “parties” that changed throughout the day as individuals moved about their territory.

But between 1998 and 2014, some of these groups became more regular cliques, such as three adult males that were consistently together.

Researchers revealed that from about 2015, the huge Ngogo community — which then numbered about 200 chimps — ruptured into two distinct clusters that lived and reproduced separately. The core of one of the groups was the clique of three adult males.

At this stage, there were still ties between many individuals in the two groups, and they still cooperated and bonded, but by 2018, the last social ties disintegrated and aggression grew during border patrols of their separate territories.

A pair of large black-furred chimps sit in lush green grass in the midst of a jungle landscape.
Before the civil war, chimpanzees of different social groups would interact. | Credit: John Mitani

“After they split into two groups, chimps from one group began attacking and killing those from the other group and that turned into an escalated period of lethal violence,” Sandel told Live Science.

Deadly raids

Raids resulted in multiple killings of adult males and, beginning in 2021, the researchers also regularly observed infanticide. The true death toll of what the researchers term a civil war is likely to have been higher, because many other individuals disappeared without clear cause, Sandel added.

“I’m sort of nervous about calling it civil war,” he said. “Civil war means something very specific when we talk about humans, and chimps don’t have nations and things like that, but there’s an important conceptual point when thinking about war against strangers versus civil war. These are chimps that know each other.”

James Brooks, an evolutionary anthropologist at the German Primate Center in Göttingen who wasn’t involved in the study, told Live Science that he agrees this conflict isn’t the same as a human civil war, but said the term helps people to understand the general idea.

It’s still not clear why the division in the community led to such aggressive conflict, but Sandel suggested various factors that could have destabilized social ties. These include the unusually large group size, competition over food and reproduction, the deaths of five adult males and one adult female in 2014, a change from one alpha male to another in 2015 and a respiratory epidemic that killed 25 chimpanzees in 2017.

A pair of large black-furred chimps sit in lush green grass in the midst of a jungle landscape.
Central male Morton (left) and Western male Garrison (right) were both involved in the conflicts. | Credit: John Mitani

Brooks suggested the group’s size could have been a factor. “Maybe they were no longer facing such an abundance of resources and became too large a group to maintain cohesion,” he said.

Zoologist Liran Samuni, also at the German Primate Center and co-director of the Taï Chimpanzee Project, who wasn’t part of this study, said that the Ngogo community is one of the more aggressive ones that researchers know. “The Kibale National Park is considered quite a rich environment, with the chimps living at high densities and for long life spans. But even before this split, this was one of the chimpanzee communities that was most violent in terms of encroaching on neighbors,” she told Live Science.

Between 1998 and 2008, the Ngogo chimps killed at least 21 chimpanzees from neighboring groups, and expanded into their territory, resulting in population growth.

The civil war is still ongoing, Sandel said. The research paper covers data collected up to 2024, but he says further attacks have happened in 2025 and 2026.

He said the work shows that even without ethnicity, religion or political ideologies, social networks can divide, leading to collective violence.

Given that chimps are one of humans’ closest two relatives, the finding reiterates how group divisions can present a danger to human societies, Brooks said, but he adds that it doesn’t mean conflict is biologically determined. He pointed to bonobos (Pan paniscus) — our other closest relatives — which form stable and distinct groups. They are also aggressive, but unlike chimpanzees, they don’t engage in such lethal group conflicts but form tolerant, cooperative associations, so such conflicts aren’t evolutionarily determined.

“Our evolutionary past does not determine our future,” he said.

 Let us design a private and unforgettable experience for you.

Contact us today and our safari specialists will design your African safari adventure, tailored entirely to your travel style, interests, and schedule.

Speak with our safari experts: +255 784 737 413

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