Gombe Stream National Park
Gombe Stream National Park, Tanzania's smallest national park at just 52 square kilometers, holds an outsized place in primate research history. This is where Dr. Jane Goodall began her pioneering chimpanzee studies in 1960, research that revolutionized our understanding of primate behavior and continues today.
About Gombe Stream National Park
Gombe Stream National Park, Tanzania's smallest national park at just 52 square kilometers, holds an outsized place in primate research history. This is where Dr. Jane Goodall began her pioneering chimpanzee studies in 1960, research that revolutionized our understanding of primate behavior and continues today.
The park's steep valleys and ridges rise from the crystal-clear shores of Lake Tanganyika, covered in dense forest that harbors approximately 100 wild chimpanzees—descendants of the troops Goodall studied. The terrain is challenging but rewarding, offering intimate encounters with habituated chimps in their natural mountain forest habitat.
Beyond chimpanzees, Gombe protects several other primate species, including red-tailed monkeys, red colobus, blue monkeys, and olive baboons. The forest ecosystem is rich in plant and bird diversity, while Lake Tanganyika's shore provides opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxation.
Gombe offers a unique combination of significant conservation history, world-class primate trekking, and beautiful lakeside scenery. The intimate size means fewer visitors and a more personal wildlife experience, though chimpanzee sightings require fitness for steep forest hiking.
Wildlife Diversity
Serengeti hosts over 70 species of large mammals and 500 species of birds, creating one of the most diverse ecosystems on the planet.
Primates
Approximately 100 chimpanzees from three habituated communities. Gombe is one of the best places on Earth for wild chimp encounters in their natural habitat.
Other Mammals
Forest-dwelling mammals less commonly seen but present. Leopards extremely rare but do inhabit the upper forest regions.
Birds & Aquatic Life
Over 200 bird species. Lake Tanganyika is a biodiversity hotspot with endemic fish species found nowhere else on Earth.
When to Visit
Serengeti offers excellent wildlife viewing year-round, but each season brings unique experiences and advantages.
Dry Season (May - October)
Best chimpanzee tracking with easier hiking on dry trails. Chimps often found at lower elevations near water sources. Peak tourist season.
Wet Season (November - April)
Lush vegetation, better fruit availability draws chimps to lower forest areas. Trails muddy and steep but fewer tourists mean more solitude.
Practical Information
Getting There
Fly to Kigoma (daily flights from Dar es Salaam and Arusha). From Kigoma, 2-hour motorboat ride to Gombe (can be rough on windy days). No road access to park—boat only.
Park Fees
Adults: $100 per person per day. Children (5-15): $20 per day. Chimp tracking permit included. Limited to small groups (6 people max) to minimize disturbance.
Essential Requirements
Good fitness level essential—terrain is steep with challenging climbs. Minimum age 12 years for chimp trekking. Advance booking mandatory (limited permits). Passport required for registration.
What to Pack
Sturdy waterproof hiking boots, long pants/sleeves (protection from vegetation), rain gear, insect repellent, small daypack, water bottle, swimming gear, binoculars, camera with good zoom.
Chimpanzee Viewing Rules
Maintain 10-meter distance, maximum 1-hour viewing time, no flash photography, cover your mouth when coughing/sneezing, no eating/drinking near chimps, no sick visitors (disease transmission risk).
Quick Facts
Location
Northern Tanzania, bordering Kenya
Area
14,763 km² (5,700 sq mi)
Established
1951
Climate
Tropical, 15-28°C year-round
Rainfall
500-1200mm annually
Wildlife
70+ mammal species, 500+ bird species
All tours include professional guides, park fees, and wildlife viewing opportunities