Gombe Stream National Park

Why Visit Gombe Stream National Park?

If you’re interested in:

• Close encounters with wild chimpanzees in their natural habitat

• Scenic trekking through ancient evergreen forests

• Exploring a rich ecosystem of birds, monkeys, and butterflies

• Relaxing by the crystal-clear waters of Lake Tanganyika

• Experiencing one of Africa’s most important sites for primate research

Gombe is a must-visit for wildlife lovers, primatologists, and adventurous travelers seeking a rare and peaceful nature escape.

 

Exploring Gombe – Trails and Activities

Visitors explore Gombe primarily on foot, trekking through forest trails to find and observe chimpanzees. The terrain can be steep and challenging but rewarding.

You can enjoy:

• Guided chimpanzee trekking tours lasting 2 to 5 hours

• Kayaking and boat trips on Lake Tanganyika to access remote parts of the park

• Birdwatching along forest edges and lakeshore

• Relaxing at Kigoma town nearby with lakeside views and cultural experiences

Best Time to Visit Gombe Stream National Park

• Dry Season (June to October and December to February) – Best trekking conditions with less mud and easier access to chimpanzees

• Wet Season (March to May, November) – Lush forest but trails can be slippery and challenging

How to Get to Gombe Stream National Park

By Air:

• Fly to Kigoma Airport from Dar es Salaam or Arusha (approx. 1.5 hours)

• From Kigoma town, take a boat transfer (45 minutes) across Lake Tanganyika to the park’s entrance

By Road:

• Road travel to Kigoma from Dar es Salaam is possible but long (over 24 hours)

Where to Stay Near Gombe Stream National Park

Accommodation around Gombe is small-scale, eco-friendly, and close to nature, perfect for unwinding after your forest adventures.

Recommended Lodges and Camps:

• Greystoke Mahale – Upscale lodge with chimpanzee tracking in Mahale Mountains nearby (combo option)

• Gombe Forest Lodge – Comfortable base near park entrance

• Kigoma Waterfront Lodges – Lakeside stays with cultural access

Unique Activities in Gombe Stream National Park

• Guided chimpanzee trekking and observation
• Lake Tanganyika boat rides and canoeing
• Birdwatching and butterfly spotting
• Cultural visits to fishing villages near Kigoma
• Photography of primates and lush forest landscapes

Suggested Safari Duration

2 to 3 days provides a focused primate trekking experience combined with relaxation by Lake Tanganyika.

Why Include Gombe Stream National Park in Your Tanzania Safari?

Gombe offers a rare and intimate wildlife encounter unlike any other in Tanzania — perfect for primate lovers and those craving off-the-beaten-path adventures.

Combine Gombe with:

• Mahale Mountains National Park for more chimpanzee trekking

• Ruaha or Selous for classic African wildlife safaris

• Zanzibar for a beach getaway after the forest adventure

Ready to Discover Tanzania’s Primate Paradise?

Let us help design your perfect Gombe Stream National Park experience — from chimp trekking to lakeside relaxation.

📩 Contact us now for tailored itineraries and expert advice.