A place with history
Gombe is central to our understanding of chimpanzee behaviour and conservation.
Primates & Lakes · Western Tanzania
Jane Goodall's chimpanzee reserve.
Gombe Stream National Park is a small, forested reserve on the eastern shore of Lake Tanganyika, near the town of Kigoma. It is world famous as the site where Jane Goodall began her pioneering study of wild chimpanzees in 1960, the longest-running study of its kind.
The park is compact but beautifully steep and green, with narrow valleys, streams and a pebbly lake shore. There are no roads, and visitors reach it by boat from Kigoma, which adds to the sense of arriving somewhere special.
Trekking is the main activity. Guides lead small groups through the forest to find habituated chimpanzees, and you can also hike to a waterfall and swim in the lake afterwards.
Highlights
Gombe is central to our understanding of chimpanzee behaviour and conservation.
A short boat ride from Kigoma makes it far easier to reach than most remote primate destinations.
Forested slopes, a clear lake and a beach make it beautiful in a small area.
The two parks together give a complete Lake Tanganyika primate journey.
Experiences
Walk with a ranger to find the chimpanzees, with rules about distance and time spent with them.
A steeper walk into the forest to a stream and waterfall.
Cool off in the lake after trekking, in a spot chosen by your guide.
Basic accommodation lets you start early in the forest when chimpanzees are active.
What you may see
Chimpanzees are the main attraction, alongside olive baboons, red colobus and other monkeys, forest birds and butterflies.
Wildlife is wild. Sightings depend on season, weather and luck, and your guide will always put you in the best position.
Planning
The best time for hiking and trekking, with drier trails.
A second window of generally good conditions.
Trails are slippery and some access can be affected.
Fly to Kigoma, then travel by boat to the park, typically thirty to ninety minutes depending on the boat. It is usually visited as a day trip or with one night in the park.
Park accommodation is simple, with more comfortable lodges available in Kigoma. We arrange the right mix depending on your budget and whether you also plan to visit Mahale.
Combine it with
Good to know
Still unsure? Send us your question and a planner will answer personally.
Yes. Parks set minimum ages for chimpanzee trekking for the safety of both people and chimpanzees. We confirm the current rule when you book.
Yes, from Kigoma by boat, though staying a night gives you a better chance of a longer, more relaxed trek.
Gombe is smaller and easier to reach, while Mahale is more remote and wilder. Many travellers include both.
Tell us when you want to travel and what you hope to see. We will reply with a plan.
