In July 2006, 13 chimps died due to human flu and because of this there are strict regulations while viewing these animals. Only 6 visitors are allowed to be with the chimps at any one time, each group may only view the chimps for a maximum of 1 hour per day, everyone has to wear a mask and if anyone is unwell they are not allowed to view the chimps. We were also asked to try to keep at least 10m away from the chimps. If a chimp approached us we were told that we would have to back away slowly until we were 10m away.

Every day we walked into the Mahale Mountains forest to find the M group of chimps. Our 2 one-hour sessions with these extraordinary animals were unforgettable. We were able to see them “fishing” for ants using a small twig as a “rod” which they pocked into a hole in a tree. The ants would then climb onto the twig and the clever chimps would pull it out of hole quickly and eat the ants off the twig.

Here we see two of the older males engrossed in their morning ant “fishing”.

We also watched them grooming one another, something that takes hours. This is such a tender, loving action and helps create the strong bonds between the members of the group.

These chimps are REALLY thorough about their grooming.

Ladies, this female chimp has the right idea!

As we were leaving our group of chimps on the last day, one of the male chimps, Darwin, walked right past us on the path that we were on. We all stepped off the path as best we could so that he could come past us. He was so close that we could have touched his back and I found myself holding my breath, not wanting to disturb him in any way. It was a moment that I will remember forever.

Below are some of our memories.

Emily, the 5-year old infant stole all our hearts.

This is Darwin.

And here he is after having walked past us.

The other clients in camp at the same time made the stay even more enjoyable. We met a wonderful aussie honeymoon couple, a pair of American dentists, both armed with wonderful senses of humour and” Woody Allen” His real name was Harvey, but resembled Woody in looks and outlook on life. Coupled with his second wife, Lisa, a lawyer who would have made a fortune as a comedian, they were a pleasure to spend time with.

Our group from left to right: Mohamed, Larry, Richard, me, Chris and Lisa.

Our afternoons were spent kayaking, snorkeling and relaxing. It was heaven.

Sam and Sally (on their honeymoon) enjoying the boat trip to a snorkeling spot.