Gombe Stream National Park

About Gombe Stream National Park

Gombe Stream National Park is one of Tanzania’s most iconic and remote wildlife reserves, situated on the eastern shore of Lake Tanganyika, in the western part of the country. Established in 1968, it is famous worldwide for its incredible chimpanzee populations and its role in primate research. The park covers an area of approximately 52 square kilometers, making it one of the smallest national parks in Tanzania, but its importance to wildlife conservation and scientific research far outweighs its size.

Gombe is best known for the pioneering studies of chimpanzees by Dr. Jane Goodall, whose research over several decades has transformed our understanding of chimpanzee behavior and their relationship with humans. Today, Gombe remains a key destination for visitors interested in wildlife conservation, with the opportunity to see these extraordinary primates in their natural habitat. In addition to chimpanzees, Gombe also hosts a variety of other wildlife, including monkeys, birds, and reptiles, as well as rich and diverse ecosystems ranging from forests to the shores of Lake Tanganyika.

Best Time to Go

July to October

High Season

No Crowds Year Out

Nearest Airport

Kilimanjaro Int. Airport

Destination Zone

Western Circuit

Best Time to Go

July to October

High Season

No Crowds Year Out

Nearest Airport

Kilimanjaro Int. Airport

Price Range

$800 to $5335

About Gombe Stream National Park

Gombe Stream National Park is one of Tanzania’s most iconic and remote wildlife reserves, situated on the eastern shore of Lake Tanganyika, in the western part of the country. Established in 1968, it is famous worldwide for its incredible chimpanzee populations and its role in primate research. The park covers an area of approximately 52 square kilometers, making it one of the smallest national parks in Tanzania, but its importance to wildlife conservation and scientific research far outweighs its size.

Gombe is best known for the pioneering studies of chimpanzees by Dr. Jane Goodall, whose research over several decades has transformed our understanding of chimpanzee behavior and their relationship with humans. Today, Gombe remains a key destination for visitors interested in wildlife conservation, with the opportunity to see these extraordinary primates in their natural habitat. In addition to chimpanzees, Gombe also hosts a variety of other wildlife, including monkeys, birds, and reptiles, as well as rich and diverse ecosystems ranging from forests to the shores of Lake Tanganyika.

When is the Best Time to Visit Gombe Stream National Park

The best time to visit Gombe Stream National Park is during the dry season, which runs from May to October. The dry weather makes hiking through the forest and tracking chimpanzees much easier, as the animals tend to move to lower altitudes and are more concentrated, making them easier to find. The temperatures are comfortable, and the lack of rain makes the trails less slippery and more accessible for trekking.

The wet season, from November to April, brings heavier rainfall, especially between March and May. While the park is lush and green during the rainy season, it can make chimpanzee trekking more challenging, as the trails become muddy and slippery. However, the rainy season is a quieter time to visit, with fewer tourists, and it’s an excellent time for birdwatching, as many migratory species visit the park during this period.

Weather and Climate in Gombe Stream National Park

Gombe Stream National Park has a tropical climate, with distinct wet and dry seasons. Due to its location along the shores of Lake Tanganyika, the park experiences a mild temperature range, with temperatures averaging between 24°C and 30°C (75°F to 86°F) during the day.

  • Dry Season (May to October): The dry season is the best time to visit Gombe, as the weather is sunny and warm, making chimpanzee trekking easier. The forest trails are drier and less challenging to navigate during this period.
  • Wet Season (November to April): The wet season brings heavy rainfall, particularly between March and May. The park becomes lush and green, but trekking conditions can be more difficult due to mud and slippery paths. The wet season is less crowded and a great time for birdwatching, though rain can sometimes limit outdoor activities.
Why Visit Gombe Stream National Park?

Gombe Stream National Park is one of the best places in the world for observing wild chimpanzees in their natural habitat. Its pioneering role in primate research and its close association with Dr. Jane Goodall’s groundbreaking work make it a must-visit for anyone interested in wildlife conservation, primate behavior, and the study of human-animal relationships. Gombe’s remote and tranquil location provides a peaceful atmosphere, ideal for those seeking a more intimate and off-the-beaten-path safari experience.

The park’s dense forests, clear waters of Lake Tanganyika, and breathtaking scenery create an ideal environment for hiking, wildlife observation, and birdwatching. Whether you’re a seasoned safari traveler, a nature enthusiast, or a research-driven visitor, Gombe offers a unique and enriching experience that goes beyond traditional game viewing.

Reasons to Visit Gombe Stream National Park:
  • Chimpanzee Trekking: Gombe is world-renowned for its chimpanzee population, offering exceptional opportunities to observe these primates in the wild.
  • Historical Significance: Gombe is closely linked to the work of Dr. Jane Goodall, who revolutionized our understanding of chimpanzee behavior.
  • Rich Biodiversity: In addition to chimpanzees, the park is home to various primates, birds, and small mammals, making it a great destination for nature lovers.
  • Stunning Scenery: The park features beautiful landscapes, including lush forests, mountain slopes, and pristine beaches along Lake Tanganyika.
  • Birdwatching: With over 200 bird species, Gombe is a haven for birdwatchers, especially during the rainy season when migratory birds arrive.
  • Solitude and Tranquility: Gombe is a smaller, quieter park, providing a more peaceful and intimate experience compared to larger parks in Tanzania.
Things to Do in Gombe Stream National Park

A visit to Gombe Stream National Park is centered around chimpanzee trekking, but there are also a variety of other activities that allow visitors to explore the park’s beauty and biodiversity.

The primary activity is tracking the wild chimpanzees. Accompanied by experienced guides, visitors hike through the forest in search of the chimpanzee groups, where they can observe the chimps in their natural environment, often engaging in grooming, socializing, and foraging.

In addition to chimpanzee trekking, Gombe offers scenic hikes that lead to various viewpoints overlooking Lake Tanganyika and the surrounding forest. The park’s stunning landscapes, including waterfalls and lush forests, provide excellent opportunities for photography and nature walks.

Birdwatching is another key activity in Gombe, with many visitors drawn by the chance to spot rare species like the African fish eagle and the red-chested sunbird. For those looking for relaxation, the park’s beautiful beaches along Lake Tanganyika are perfect for a peaceful retreat or a swim in the clear waters.

Top Activities and Things to Do in Gombe Stream National Park:
  • Chimpanzee Trekking: Explore the park’s forests with a guide to track and observe the wild chimpanzees.
  • Hiking to Viewpoints: Take scenic hikes to viewpoints overlooking Lake Tanganyika and enjoy panoramic views of the park’s stunning landscapes.
  • Birdwatching: Spot a variety of bird species, including the endangered African fish eagle and other migratory species.
  • Relax at the Beach: Spend some time on Gombe’s peaceful beaches, swimming or simply relaxing by the shore of Lake Tanganyika.
  • Photography: Capture the beauty of the park’s chimpanzees, landscapes, and birdlife with amazing photographic opportunities.
  • Nature Walks: Explore the forested trails of Gombe, where visitors can learn about the park’s ecosystems and wildlife.
How to Get to Gombe Stream National Park

Gombe Stream National Park is located in a remote area of western Tanzania, and the best way to get there is by air and boat. The nearest major town is Kigoma, which serves as the gateway to the park.

  • By Air: Fly to Kigoma from Dar es Salaam or Kilimanjaro, then take a boat from Kigoma to Gombe Stream National Park. The boat ride takes around 30 minutes and offers scenic views of Lake Tanganyika.
  • By Road: The road journey to Kigoma from Dar es Salaam is quite long, taking approximately 10-12 hours by car. From Kigoma, a boat ride is required to reach the park.
Where to Stay When Visiting Gombe Stream National Park

Accommodation options in Gombe Stream National Park are limited but offer a few comfortable and eco-friendly lodges that provide a great base for exploring the park. Most accommodations are located near the park entrance and offer a range of services, from chimpanzee trekking excursions to lakeside relaxation.

  • Luxury: Gombe Stream Lodge – The only lodge within the park, offering comfortable rooms with stunning views of Lake Tanganyika and excellent services, including guided chimpanzee trekking.
  • Budget: Kigoma Hilltop Hotel – Located in Kigoma town, this budget-friendly option provides simple and affordable accommodation for those preferring to stay outside the park.

Gombe Stream National Park is a truly unique destination, combining groundbreaking primate research with an exceptional opportunity to observe wild chimpanzees and explore a pristine natural environment. Whether you are trekking through forests to observe chimpanzees, hiking to scenic viewpoints, or enjoying the park’s tranquil beaches, Gombe offers an unforgettable experience that connects you with both nature and science.

When is the Best Time to Visit Gombe Stream National Park

The best time to visit Gombe Stream National Park is during the dry season, which runs from May to October. The dry weather makes hiking through the forest and tracking chimpanzees much easier, as the animals tend to move to lower altitudes and are more concentrated, making them easier to find. The temperatures are comfortable, and the lack of rain makes the trails less slippery and more accessible for trekking.

The wet season, from November to April, brings heavier rainfall, especially between March and May. While the park is lush and green during the rainy season, it can make chimpanzee trekking more challenging, as the trails become muddy and slippery. However, the rainy season is a quieter time to visit, with fewer tourists, and it’s an excellent time for birdwatching, as many migratory species visit the park during this period.

Weather and Climate in Gombe Stream National Park

Gombe Stream National Park has a tropical climate, with distinct wet and dry seasons. Due to its location along the shores of Lake Tanganyika, the park experiences a mild temperature range, with temperatures averaging between 24°C and 30°C (75°F to 86°F) during the day.

  • Dry Season (May to October): The dry season is the best time to visit Gombe, as the weather is sunny and warm, making chimpanzee trekking easier. The forest trails are drier and less challenging to navigate during this period.
  • Wet Season (November to April): The wet season brings heavy rainfall, particularly between March and May. The park becomes lush and green, but trekking conditions can be more difficult due to mud and slippery paths. The wet season is less crowded and a great time for birdwatching, though rain can sometimes limit outdoor activities.
Why Visit Gombe Stream National Park?

Gombe Stream National Park is one of the best places in the world for observing wild chimpanzees in their natural habitat. Its pioneering role in primate research and its close association with Dr. Jane Goodall’s groundbreaking work make it a must-visit for anyone interested in wildlife conservation, primate behavior, and the study of human-animal relationships. Gombe’s remote and tranquil location provides a peaceful atmosphere, ideal for those seeking a more intimate and off-the-beaten-path safari experience.

The park’s dense forests, clear waters of Lake Tanganyika, and breathtaking scenery create an ideal environment for hiking, wildlife observation, and birdwatching. Whether you’re a seasoned safari traveler, a nature enthusiast, or a research-driven visitor, Gombe offers a unique and enriching experience that goes beyond traditional game viewing.

Reasons to Visit Gombe Stream National Park:
  • Chimpanzee Trekking: Gombe is world-renowned for its chimpanzee population, offering exceptional opportunities to observe these primates in the wild.
  • Historical Significance: Gombe is closely linked to the work of Dr. Jane Goodall, who revolutionized our understanding of chimpanzee behavior.
  • Rich Biodiversity: In addition to chimpanzees, the park is home to various primates, birds, and small mammals, making it a great destination for nature lovers.
  • Stunning Scenery: The park features beautiful landscapes, including lush forests, mountain slopes, and pristine beaches along Lake Tanganyika.
  • Birdwatching: With over 200 bird species, Gombe is a haven for birdwatchers, especially during the rainy season when migratory birds arrive.
  • Solitude and Tranquility: Gombe is a smaller, quieter park, providing a more peaceful and intimate experience compared to larger parks in Tanzania.
Things to Do in Gombe Stream National Park

A visit to Gombe Stream National Park is centered around chimpanzee trekking, but there are also a variety of other activities that allow visitors to explore the park’s beauty and biodiversity.

The primary activity is tracking the wild chimpanzees. Accompanied by experienced guides, visitors hike through the forest in search of the chimpanzee groups, where they can observe the chimps in their natural environment, often engaging in grooming, socializing, and foraging.

In addition to chimpanzee trekking, Gombe offers scenic hikes that lead to various viewpoints overlooking Lake Tanganyika and the surrounding forest. The park’s stunning landscapes, including waterfalls and lush forests, provide excellent opportunities for photography and nature walks.

Birdwatching is another key activity in Gombe, with many visitors drawn by the chance to spot rare species like the African fish eagle and the red-chested sunbird. For those looking for relaxation, the park’s beautiful beaches along Lake Tanganyika are perfect for a peaceful retreat or a swim in the clear waters.

Top Activities and Things to Do in Gombe Stream National Park:
  • Chimpanzee Trekking: Explore the park’s forests with a guide to track and observe the wild chimpanzees.
  • Hiking to Viewpoints: Take scenic hikes to viewpoints overlooking Lake Tanganyika and enjoy panoramic views of the park’s stunning landscapes.
  • Birdwatching: Spot a variety of bird species, including the endangered African fish eagle and other migratory species.
  • Relax at the Beach: Spend some time on Gombe’s peaceful beaches, swimming or simply relaxing by the shore of Lake Tanganyika.
  • Photography: Capture the beauty of the park’s chimpanzees, landscapes, and birdlife with amazing photographic opportunities.
  • Nature Walks: Explore the forested trails of Gombe, where visitors can learn about the park’s ecosystems and wildlife.
How to Get to Gombe Stream National Park

Gombe Stream National Park is located in a remote area of western Tanzania, and the best way to get there is by air and boat. The nearest major town is Kigoma, which serves as the gateway to the park.

  • By Air: Fly to Kigoma from Dar es Salaam or Kilimanjaro, then take a boat from Kigoma to Gombe Stream National Park. The boat ride takes around 30 minutes and offers scenic views of Lake Tanganyika.
  • By Road: The road journey to Kigoma from Dar es Salaam is quite long, taking approximately 10-12 hours by car. From Kigoma, a boat ride is required to reach the park.
Where to Stay When Visiting Gombe Stream National Park

Accommodation options in Gombe Stream National Park are limited but offer a few comfortable and eco-friendly lodges that provide a great base for exploring the park. Most accommodations are located near the park entrance and offer a range of services, from chimpanzee trekking excursions to lakeside relaxation.

  • Luxury: Gombe Stream Lodge – The only lodge within the park, offering comfortable rooms with stunning views of Lake Tanganyika and excellent services, including guided chimpanzee trekking.
  • Budget: Kigoma Hilltop Hotel – Located in Kigoma town, this budget-friendly option provides simple and affordable accommodation for those preferring to stay outside the park.

Gombe Stream National Park is a truly unique destination, combining groundbreaking primate research with an exceptional opportunity to observe wild chimpanzees and explore a pristine natural environment. Whether you are trekking through forests to observe chimpanzees, hiking to scenic viewpoints, or enjoying the park’s tranquil beaches, Gombe offers an unforgettable experience that connects you with both nature and science.

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Photos of Gombe Stream National Park

Suggested itinerary featuring Gombe Stream National Park

This sample itinerary will give you an idea of what is possible when you travel in Gombe Stream National Park, and showcases routes we know work particularly well. Treat this as inspiration, because your trip will be created uniquely by one of our specialists.
You Visit: Mahale Mountains National Park, Katavi National Park, Gombe Stream National Park
Best Time: Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct
Mahale Mountains National Park, Katavi National Park, Gombe Stream National Park

Tour to Katavi National Park, Gombe Stream National Park and Mahale Mountains National Park are beauty and unique. There are parks without roads where you can walk and experience nature with all your senses. All Game Viewing at the Parks are done on foot. The biggest attraction of these Parks is the highly habituated chimpanzees but there is a large number of Olive Baboons and different species of Monkeys such as Red Colobus, Blue Monkeys etc.

You Visit: Mahale Mountains National Park, Katavi National Park, Gombe Stream National Park
Best Time: Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct

Other Popular Destinations to Visit in Tanzania

Featuring heavily on our itinerary ideas for visiting Tanzania, these places are destinations that we know prove consistently popular with our travellers. How you choose to include them in your trip can be tailored into a route that best suits your preferences.

Happy Travelers Share Their Experiences

We have been receiving outstanding reviews from our clients, and Eastland Adventures is proudly rated 5/5 by our customers. This honor is a reflection of our unwavering commitment to ensuring that every aspect of our clients’ safari experiences is fully tailored to their needs. We go above and beyond to make sure their adventure is nothing short of exceptional and satisfying.

Kellie F
Kellie F
2025-07-23
Kilimanjaro Lemosho route, four day safari and balloon flight over Serengeti! Please do not look past this company! They were so attentive and supportive for our team of ten on the Kilimanjaro climb and safari tour. Before we even finished our sentence if we went to make a request, it was being acted upon! They fully understand the hiker experience and do everything in their power to make it the most enjoyable and rewarding journey right from the moment you step off the plane.A++ rating from our whole team!
Sally M
Sally M
2025-07-15
Amazing adventure Hi Daniel and team, I would just like to say thank you for the amazing experience that I had with Eastland Adventures and Take Shape Adventures. Your team of guides and porters were absolutely fantastic. I especially love the conversations that I was able to have with Tlusa, David and Leo. I really appreciated Tlusa sharing his family stories with me and through David I have a much better understanding of Tanzania. The summit day, was exhilarating and very tiring, talking to David really helped me enjoy the walk down from the summit. Thank you so much to all your team, you have made my holiday absolutely incredible. Thanks Sally
Gill
Gill
2025-07-13
Highly recommend Eastland Adventures for climbing Kilimanjaro and 4-day Safari Climbing Kilimanjaro : Highly recommend Eastland Adventures for their attention to detail, skilled team and extraordinary service while climbing Kilimanjaro - what an awesome fun team they have - always thinking ahead to what we need each day, monitoring our health, keeping us safe, encouraged and well fed at all times.4-day Safari : also excellent, our driver George knew the tracks so well and took us to so so many animals and safe picnic locations. We never felt rushed and were able to take our time for photos and just observing. He always checked with us before moving on.
Bridget
Bridget
2025-07-12
Incredible Kilimanjaro Experience & outstanding Safari People are sincere, helpful & professional. All guides and staff are of the highest standard & make sure you are having a wonderful time & safe at all times. Highly recommend Eastland Adventures for climbing Mount Kilimanjaro & for Safari.
Melle W
Melle W
2025-05-14
11/10 RECOMMEND EASTLAND ADVENTURES for Kili climb! ❤️ Safe, knowledgeable, prepared, fun & successful! Climbing Kilimanjaro with Eastland Adventures was the experience of a lifetime. We were amazed by the large support team—many hands truly made light work. The guides were knowledgeable, fun, and incredibly supportive. They knew every detail of the mountain and made us feel safe at every step. Summit day was no joke, but when we got stuck, they carried our packs (on top of there's!!) when we struggled (still makes me tear up), helping us reach the top. The food was incredible (especially for being on a mountain!), and the accommodations before the climb were clean and secure. Everything was thoughtfully organized—even personalized mugs! Can’t recommend them enough. Feel free to message on IG: @mellewilliamson.
Miguel
Miguel
2025-03-29
Eastland Adventures made our Kilimanjaro dreams come true! Words cannot express our appreciation for the incredible trekking experience with Eastland Adventures that made our Kilimanjaro summit dreams come true. The exceptional care, attention to detail, and remarkable expertise was truly amazing. We are so grateful and would 100% recommend them for your Kilimanjaro climb! As we were planning our trip, we researched various trekking companies and a family member referred us to Eastland Adventures. We are so happy we chose them. From the beginning, communication with Daniel, founder and CEO, was phenomenal. Correspondence was timely, thoughtful, detailed, and very helpful. Our lead guide David and assistant guide Walter were absolutely incredible and shared so much with us during our expedition. They were patient, knowledgeable, and caring. Their encouragement and experience was instrumental in creating a successful and fun adventure. We truly appreciated the way our guides taught us about the mountain, the people, and the culture. In addition to our amazing guides, the entire team of porters were superhuman, demonstrating remarkable strength and endurance. Carrying individual packs while balancing heavy loads on their heads, the team was truly inspiring. Their specialized skills ensured our comfort and well-being from setting up camp to crafting delicious meals to providing a portable clean toilet. It was wonderful to experience their camaraderie and joy, and the team's dedication to service was evident in every detail. Shout out to team Calimanjaro: Boniface, Jackson, Langaeli, Walle, Joseph, Ali, Oswald, John, Matei, and Shedrac. Mashujaa for life! In December 2024, we completed the 7-day Rongai route, which was great for acclimatization and to enjoy the Kilimanjaro adventure without feeling rushed. After our progress on the first day and with our guides' advice, we were able to spend two nights rather than one at a higher elevation to acclimatize better, which made our Kilimanjaro adventure even more successful. On summit night, we hiked up with our guides and support porters. Summit night/day was a challenging climb for us because of the altitude, and we would not have made it to the summit without our summit team. They were encouraging, patient, and supportive. Reaching the summit was a dream come true! Overall, it was an experience of a lifetime. Eastland Adventures went above and beyond what we could have ever imagined. Asante Sana Eastland Adventures!- Aarika and Miguel
SM-nj-USA
SM-nj-USA
2025-03-25
Enquiry how are their Serengeti safari tours? Any experiences with these : bookings, tour , deposits etc? Are they dependable? They are asking for multiple deposits.
Navigator181033
Navigator181033
2024-03-12
Amazing once in a lifetime experience! Daniel at Eastland ensured that we were very comfortable during our entire trip. He arranged everything from transportation, lodging, knowledgeable mountain guides, fantastic cook, and amazing porters. We had a small group of family (only 3 of us). We didn't know what to expect landing in Tanzania for the first time, but felt very welcome and gained some new local family. Everything was on-time and as scheduled. We were fed like royalty and had, the always welcome, coffee and tea in the morning and tea time in the evening. The whole experience was once in a lifetime and we are sure we chose the correct outfit. The views spoke for themselves. We had ideal weather.
John B
John B
2024-03-06
Awesome!!!! Great time all round! Porters, guides, drivers were friendly and professional. Food, campsites, sleeping tents, toilets all very good. Climbing Kilimanjaro was both beautiful and brutal especially on way down! I only wish we had taken more time with the safari and stayed longer. Really an existential experience we will never forget. Asante Tanzania!
SuziCNM
SuziCNM
2024-03-05
Truly the trip of a lifetime. BOOK NOW!!! After our Kili hike, we chose to run in the Moshi marathon. Then, we departed on Safari for 4 days. MINDS BLOWN!!! Our driver Raymond was amazing! The roads to and from the national parks are CHALLENGING, and those within the park even more so. Be prepared for lots of bumps and mud, but the reward is MORE THAN WORTH IT!!! The Serengeti is never ending, and has more animals that you can even imagine. Ngorongoro is not to be missed either. Each and every detail was planned for us, which made it easier for us to really enjoy all that the country has to offer. DO NOT HESITATE to consider Eastland for your Tanzania adventure!!! Locally owned and operated!!

Why Book Tours With Eastland Adventures

Welcome to Eastland Adventures! We create unforgettable trips across Tanzania, from Kilimanjaro climbs and wildlife safaris to relaxing beach holidays. With our local expertise and carefully planned tours, we help you explore Tanzania’s nature, culture, and hidden gems with ease and comfort.

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