Gombe National Park is more than a safari destination—it's a symbol of global conservation, scientific discovery, and the deep connection between humans and the wild. Tucked along the eastern shores of Lake Tanganyika in western Tanzania, this remote jungle paradise is home to the world's most famous chimpanzee population.
Gombe shot to global fame in the 1960s when Dr. Jane Goodall arrived to study the behavior of chimpanzees in their natural habitat. Her groundbreaking work reshaped how we understand primates, sparking worldwide attention and conservation efforts. Today, the park still protects many of the same chimp families she observed.
Unlike traditional game drives, Gombe is a walking safari experience. You'll hike through ancient forests, cross streams, and climb ridges—all to meet one of our closest relatives face to face. The thrill of locking eyes with a wild chimpanzee just meters away is unforgettable.
Beyond chimps, Gombe offers waterfalls, red-tailed monkeys, olive baboons, and over 200 species of birds. Its lakeshore setting means you can swim, kayak, or simply relax by the water between treks. Gombe is wild, raw, and incredibly intimate.
This journey may take the whole day to reach Gombe national reserve. Meet your guide in Kigoma town or at the airport. From here, take a scenic boat ride across Lake Tanganyika to reach Gombe National Park (approximated to 1.5–2 hours). After check-in at your lodge or camp, enjoy a guided walk along the lakeshore or an optional swim. Dinner and overnight stay in the park.
Wake up to the sound of the forest and set off on a morning chimpanzee trek. With the help of park rangers, you'll track the movements of the chimps through forested hills. Along the way, you may also spot red colobus monkeys, bush pigs, and tropical birds.
In the afternoon, enjoy a short hike to Kakombe Waterfall, one of Jane Goodall’s favorite spots. Optional: visit the Jane Goodall research center or relax by the lake. Overnight at the same lodge.
Enjoy a final morning walk through the forest or along the lake. Depending on your flight or onward plans, you'll then take the boat back to Arusha / moshi for drop-off. The experience ends with a deeper appreciation for both nature and humanity's connection to it.
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