Gombe National Park -

Chimpanzee Trekking on the Shores of Lake Tanganyika

Gombe National Park is one of Africa’s most extraordinary and meaningful safari destinations. Tucked away along the remote eastern shores of Lake Tanganyika in western Tanzania, this small but legendary park offers travelers a rare opportunity to step into the world of wild chimpanzees and experience nature in its purest form. Far from the crowds of classic savannah safaris, Gombe delivers an intimate, immersive journey into dense tropical forest where every trek feels personal, raw, and unforgettable.

Internationally renowned as the site where Dr. Jane Goodall began her groundbreaking chimpanzee research in 1960, Gombe holds immense scientific and conservation significance. It was here that the world first learned that chimpanzees use tools, form complex social bonds, and share striking similarities with humans. Today, visitors follow in the footsteps of this historic research, trekking through the same valleys and forest trails to observe habituated chimpanzee families living freely in the wild.

What truly sets Gombe National Park apart is its unique blend of primate encounters, dramatic landscapes, and lakeside tranquility. Steep forested hills plunge directly into the clear waters of Lake Tanganyika, creating a breathtaking setting found nowhere else in East Africa. A safari to Gombe is not about ticking off animals—it is about connection, discovery, and experiencing one of the most profound wildlife encounters on the continent. For travelers seeking authenticity, exclusivity, and purpose-driven travel, Gombe National Park stands in a class of its own.

Why Visit Gombe National Park?

Unlike traditional savannah safaris, Gombe delivers a walking safari experience deep in lush tropical forest, where guests track chimpanzees on foot and observe their complex social lives at close range.

Highlights include:

Guided chimpanzee trekking with experienced park rangers
The legendary research site of Dr. Jane Goodall
Dramatic forested valleys and waterfalls
Relaxation and water activities on Lake Tanganyika
Limited visitor numbers for an exclusive, low-impact safari

Chimpanzee Trekking Experience

Chimpanzee trekking is the signature activity in Gombe National Park. After a briefing from park rangers, guests hike through forest trails in search of habituated chimpanzee families, most notably the famous Kasakela community.

During the trek, visitors may witness:

Chimpanzees grooming, feeding, and playing
Mothers caring for young infants
Vocal communication and dominance displays
Natural behaviors rarely seen outside a research setting

Trekking durations vary from 1 to 4 hours, depending on chimp location. Encounters are raw, authentic, and deeply moving.

Wildlife Beyond Chimpanzees

While chimpanzees are the main attraction, Gombe also supports a rich ecosystem including:

Olive baboons
Red colobus and red-tailed monkeys
Blue monkeys
Bushbuck and other small mammals

The park is also a haven for bird lovers, with over 200 bird species, including fish eagles, hornbills, kingfishers, and colorful forest birds.

Scenic Beauty & Lake Tanganyika

Gombe’s landscape is both dramatic and serene. Steep forested hills descend directly into Lake Tanganyika, creating breathtaking scenery unmatched anywhere else in East Africa.

Guests can enjoy:

Swimming in clear, freshwater beaches
Kayaking or boat excursions
Sunset views over the lake
Peaceful downtime after forest treks

This unique combination of forest, wildlife, and lake sets Gombe apart from all other safari destinations.

Accommodation Options

Accommodation in Gombe National Park is limited to protect its fragile environment. Options typically include:

Park-run bandas (comfortable, simple forest chalets)
Designated campsites
Select eco-lodges near the park

Most safaris include 1–2 nights, often combined with Mahale Mountains National Park or other Tanzania highlights.

Best Time to Visit Gombe National Park

Gombe is a year-round destination, but conditions vary:

June to October (Dry Season): Best for chimp trekking and hiking
November to April (Green Season): Lush scenery, fewer visitors, excellent birding

Chimpanzees are present throughout the year, ensuring rewarding experiences in all seasons.

Getting to Gombe

Gombe National Park is accessed by boat from Kigoma, enhancing its remote and exclusive feel. Our tours handle all logistics, including:

Transfers from Kigoma Airport
Boat transport to and from the park
Park permits and guiding services

Conservation & Responsible Travel

Visiting Gombe supports vital chimpanzee conservation and research efforts. Strict trekking guidelines are followed to protect chimp health and behavior, ensuring tourism remains sustainable and ethical.

Book Your Gombe National Park Safari

A safari to Gombe National Park is more than a wildlife trip—it is a journey into one of humanity’s most important natural stories. Whether combined with other Tanzania destinations or enjoyed as a standalone experience, Gombe delivers a safari unlike any other.

📩 Contact us today to customize your Gombe National Park chimpanzee trekking safari.