Gombe Stream National Park

Visited: Oct. 2023 Reviewed: Oct. 02, 2025 Submitted in:

Our journey to Gombe Stream National Park began with a scenic boat ride across the crystal-clear waters of Lake Tanganyika, the longest freshwater lake in the world. As we approached the forested escarpments, the feeling was surreal—remote, untouched, and truly exclusive. Unlike traditional safaris, Gombe is roadless, which immediately gives it an authentic, off-the-beaten-path atmosphere. The highlight of our visit was undoubtedly the chimpanzee trekking, following in the footsteps of Jane Goodall’s groundbreaking research. Guided by expert trackers, we hiked through dense rainforest, listening to distant calls until we finally encountered a troop of chimps grooming, playing, and interacting in their natural habitat. Standing just meters away from these intelligent primates was one of the most powerful wildlife experiences of my life. Beyond the chimps, Gombe revealed a remarkable diversity of wildlife. We saw baboons, red colobus monkeys, and over 200 species of vibrant birds, from African fish eagles to Peter’s twinspots. The trails also led us to the breathtaking Kakombe Waterfall, where the cool mist offered a welcome reward after trekking through the humid forest. Combined with the golden beaches and snorkeling opportunities of Lake Tanganyika, the park is a dream for both nature lovers and adventure travelers. What makes Gombe so unique is its intimacy and exclusivity. There are no crowds, just raw wilderness and the privilege of connecting with nature on foot. Yes, the terrain is steep and the journey remote, but the reward is unforgettable. If you are looking for a bucket-list African safari experience, where history, wildlife, and natural beauty come together, Gombe Stream National Park is a destination you will never forget.

If you have made it to Gombe Stream NP, you are probably here to see the chimps. If not, you've made a huge mistake. This is the site of Jane Goodall's famous research, even having been visited by Diane Fossey at one point. Each experience is different, but time spent with chimpanzees will likely be more prolonged and mind-boggling than if you spent the $550 in Rwanda/Uganda to maybe see the gorillas. They can be raucous and frightening, or timid and too human for comfort. Enjoy this strange and unexpectedly-spiritual experience. For a good time, try catching the locals boat from outside Kigoma here. It is quite an experience, likely spent sitting on hundreds of gallons of gasoline surrounded by smokers. DO NOT, under any circumstances, take the Central Line train back to Dar. I'm warning you. If you decide it's your only option, get ready for hell, but here's a tip - ask if you can chill in the restaurant car for the 3 day ride. Drink their beer and buy food to smooth things over. It should work out. This is a side of Africa most aren't going to be ready for.