For an unforgettable wildlife experience, chimpanzee trekking in Gombe National Park is one of the best ways to encounter primates in East Africa. Located in the western part of Tanzania, north of Kigoma town on the shores of Lake Tanganyika, this park offers a pristine environment for observing chimpanzees in their natural habitat.
Gombe National Park is famously known for its association with Dr. Jane Goodall, who began her groundbreaking research on chimpanzees here in 1960. Her study is considered the longest-running research on primates, making Gombe a significant place for both scientists and wildlife enthusiasts alike. The park is home to several habituated chimpanzee groups that can be tracked with the guidance of experienced rangers, making it a top destination for chimpanzee trekking.
Gombe National Park offers an incredible opportunity to see chimpanzees up close. Trek through the miombo woodlands and gallery forests to find these fascinating creatures in their natural environment. In addition to chimpanzees, Gombe is also home to other primates like the olive baboon, red-tailed monkeys, and red colobus monkeys. Other wildlife species include the elusive leopard, bushbuck, buffalo, and waterbuck. Bird lovers will appreciate the park’s variety of species, including the African fish eagle, barbet, and the palm-nut vulture.
Gombe National Park can be reached by air or land. You can fly into the park from Dar es Salaam, Mwanza, or Arusha with scheduled or chartered flights. Alternatively, you can take a train from Dar es Salaam for a scenic and leisurely journey. If you’re traveling from neighboring countries, such as Burundi or Zambia, you can cross Lake Tanganyika by ferry to reach Kigoma and then continue to the park.
The best time to visit Gombe for chimpanzee trekking is during the rainy season (from November to mid-May), when the lush green vegetation creates a stunning backdrop for your trek. This season also offers the best opportunities for seeing the chimpanzees as they are more active. If you’re looking to capture stunning photos, the dry season (from May to October) is ideal for clearer views and shorter treks.
To visit Tanzania, you will need a tourist visa. You can easily obtain your visa either before your trip or upon arrival at any entry point in Tanzania, for a fee of USD 100. Depending on your travel history, you may be required to show proof of yellow fever vaccination and a COVID-19 free certificate. Visa and entry regulations may change, so it’s always a good idea to check with your local Tanzanian embassy or contact us for the latest updates.
Whether you’re on a budget or looking for a luxurious stay, Gombe National Park offers a variety of accommodations. Some options include Mbali Mbali Gombe Lodge, Gombe Forest Lodge, Muzye Lodge, and Mlukoyoyo Guest House. You can choose your ideal stay based on your preferences and budget.
At Trek Africa Gorillas Ltd, we organize in unforgettable safari experiences across Tanzania. We are highly rated on TripAdvisor and known for offering eco-friendly safaris that emphasize wildlife conservation and community support. Our services include gorilla trekking, chimpanzee trekking, Big 5 safaris, mountain hiking, boat excursions, and cultural encounters throughout top African destinations like Kenya, Botswana, and Namibia.
For a seamless and memorable chimpanzee trekking adventure in Gombe National Park, don’t hesitate to contact us for more information or to make a reservation.