Gombe Stream National Park

Gombe Stream National Park is a world-renowned destination, best known for its chimpanzee populations and as the site of Jane Goodall’s pioneering research on primates.

Located on the shores of Lake Tanganyika in western Tanzania, Gombe is one of the smallest national parks in the country, covering only 35 square kilometers. Despite its size, the park boasts lush forests, steep valleys, and an abundance of wildlife, making it a unique destination for primate lovers and nature enthusiasts.

This remote and tranquil park offers visitors a chance to trek through its tropical forest and observe wild chimpanzees in their natural habitat.

Tourist Attractions

• Chimpanzee Trekking: The main attraction of Gombe is its wild chimpanzee population. Visitors can trek into the forest to observe these fascinating creatures as they go about their daily lives—an unforgettable experience for any wildlife enthusiast.
• Jane Goodall Research Station: Gombe is where Dr. Jane Goodall conducted her groundbreaking research on chimpanzees in the 1960s. Visitors can learn more about her work and its impact on wildlife conservation.
• Lake Tanganyika: The park is situated along the shores of Lake Tanganyika, the longest and second-deepest freshwater lake in the world. Visitors can swim, snorkel, or enjoy boat rides on its crystal-clear waters.
• Hiking and Bird Watching: Gombe’s diverse ecosystem, with its mix of forest, grassland, and lakeshore, is home to a variety of bird species and small mammals. Hiking trails offer spectacular views of the park and the surrounding landscape.
• Kakombe Waterfall: A short hike within the park leads to the beautiful Kakombe Waterfall, a serene spot for relaxation and photography.

How to Get There

• By Air: The best way to reach Gombe is to fly into Kigoma, which has flights from Dar es Salaam or Arusha. From Kigoma, visitors can take a boat to the park, which takes around 1 to 2 hours.
• By Boat: Gombe is only accessible by boat. Private boat transfers from Kigoma to the park can be arranged, providing a scenic route along Lake Tanganyika’s shores.

Best Time to Visit the Park

The best time to visit Gombe Stream National Park is during the dry season from July to October. During this period, the chimpanzees are easier to track as they stay closer to the lower forested areas. However, Gombe can be visited year-round, with the wet season from November to April offering lush, green scenery and excellent birdwatching opportunities.

FAQs

1. What is the main reason to visit Gombe Stream National Park?
The primary attraction is chimpanzee trekking, allowing visitors to observe wild chimpanzees up close in their natural environment.

2. How difficult are the chimpanzee treks?
Chimpanzee treks vary in difficulty, depending on where the chimps are located. Some treks can be short and easy, while others may involve steep climbs and longer walks.

3. Are there other animals in Gombe besides chimpanzees?
Yes, Gombe is home to other primates, including baboons, as well as small mammals and numerous bird species.

4. Can I swim in Lake Tanganyika?
Yes, swimming in the crystal-clear waters of Lake Tanganyika is possible, and the lake is a great spot for relaxing after a chimpanzee trek.

5. What accommodation options are available?
There are a few small lodges and campsites near the park, and visitors can also stay in Kigoma, making day trips to the park.

At Maramatta Safaris, we offer customized trips to Gombe Stream National Park, providing guided chimpanzee treks, boat transfers, and expert insights into one of Tanzania’s most iconic wildlife destinations. Let us help you explore the magic of Gombe and create unforgettable memories!