6 Days Unparalleled Safari: Chimp Trekking to Mahale & Gombe National Parks

Price From

$3,500 (per person)

Duration

6 Days / 5 Nights

Min. People

2 Guests

Min. Age

1+ Years

Tour Type

Private Game Drive

Overview

Embark on a rare 6 day Tanzania chimpanzee trekking safari through the remote wilderness of Mahale Mountains National Park and Gombe Stream National Park. This itinerary blends pristine rainforest exploration, wildlife encounters and breathtaking views of Lake Tanganyika.

From the historic chimpanzee research site founded by Dr Jane Goodall in Gombe to the untouched jungles of Mahale, this safari offers intimate chimp tracking, scenic flights and boat transfers, expert wildlife guiding and handpicked boutique lodges for a truly unparalleled experience.

Safari Highlights

Track wild chimpanzees in Mahale Mountains and Gombe National Park.
Visit Dr Jane Goodall’s historic chimpanzee conservation region.
Scenic boat transfers across crystal clear Lake Tanganyika.
Private safari logistics and flexible pacing for wildlife enthusiasts.
Stay in exclusive lodges in remote and untouched landscapes.
Walk through lush rainforests home to chimpanzees, leopards and tropical birds.

Route overview: Arusha → Kigoma → Gombe → Mahale → Kigoma → Arusha.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1 – Arrival in Arusha

Arrive at Kilimanjaro International Airport where your professional safari guide will meet you. Enjoy a smooth transfer to the elegant Gran Melia Arusha or similar luxury hotel. Rest, adjust and prepare for your upcoming chimpanzee trekking adventure.

If time allows, explore Arusha’s cultural markets, nearby cafes or enjoy the mountain views from your lodge.

Accommodation: Gran Melia Arusha or similar • Meals: Dinner

Day 2 – Flight to Kigoma and Transfer to Gombe

After breakfast, take a scenic flight to Kigoma. Enjoy a relaxing boat transfer across Lake Tanganyika surrounded by mountains and rainforest terrain. Upon arrival in Gombe Stream National Park, check in at Mbali Mbali Gombe Lodge and settle into your lakeside retreat.

Spend the afternoon unwinding or exploring the surrounding forest trails.

Accommodation: Mbali Mbali Gombe Lodge • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3 – Chimp Trekking in Gombe National Park

Begin your first guided chimpanzee trekking experience in the forest made famous by Dr Jane Goodall. Listen for the calls of wild chimpanzees as you hike through dense jungle terrain with expert trackers. Enjoy opportunities to observe their behavior, grooming, feeding and family dynamics.

You may also hike to James Peak for sweeping views of Lake Tanganyika before returning to the lodge for relaxation.

Accommodation: Mbali Mbali Gombe Lodge • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4 – Transfer to Mahale Mountains

After breakfast, board a boat to Mahale Mountains National Park. This remote and wild rainforest destination offers some of the most rewarding chimpanzee tracking in Africa. On arrival, settle at Mbali Mbali Mahale Lodge located along pristine white sand shores.

Your afternoon includes guided forest walks or your first optional chimp encounter depending on tracking conditions.

Accommodation: Mbali Mbali Mahale Lodge • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5 – Full Chimpanzee Trekking Experience in Mahale

Spend the day trekking through Mahale’s lush mountain forests with experienced trackers who follow the movements of habituated chimpanzee families. This is one of the best regions in Africa for ethical primate encounters supported by conservation-led research.

Return to your lodge for a lakeside dinner and time to reflect on your rare wildlife encounters.

Accommodation: Mbali Mbali Mahale Lodge • Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6 – Return to Arusha

After breakfast, enjoy your final boat transfer from Mahale to Kigoma followed by your return flight to Arusha or Kilimanjaro International Airport. This marks the end of your 6 day chimp trekking safari experience.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Why Choose This Safari

This itinerary offers a rare opportunity to visit two exclusive chimpanzee trekking destinations in Africa. With private logistics, exceptional guiding, scenic locations and immersive forest trekking, this safari is ideal for wildlife enthusiasts, photographers and travelers seeking remote nature experiences.

The balance of comfort, adventure and conservation makes this one of Tanzania’s most unique safari itineraries.

Price Includes

Professional safari guide
Accommodation in Arusha before safari
All nights accommodation during the tour
Private 4×4 Land Cruiser with pop up roof
Park entry fees (VAT included)
Unlimited bottled drinking water
Meals as specified per day
Airport transfers

Price Excludes

International and domestic flights
Personal expenses and souvenirs
Guide tips (20 USD per person per day recommended)
Travel insurance
Visa fees

Frequently Asked Questions

How difficult is the chimp trekking?

Chimp trekking ranges from moderate to challenging depending on weather and chimp movement. Good walking shoes and a reasonable fitness level are recommended.