Chimpanzee Trekking Safari

Safari summary

5 Days Safari to Gombe National Park

This five-day safari to Gombe National Park offers a rare and intimate wildlife experience in one of Tanzania’s most remote and historically significant destinations. Located along the eastern shores of Lake Tanganyika in western Tanzania, Gombe is famous for its chimpanzee population and groundbreaking research initiated by Jane Goodall. Unlike the vast savannah parks of northern Tanzania, Gombe is a small, mountainous forest reserve where the primary focus is primate tracking, forest exploration, and peaceful lakeside relaxation.
Your journey typically begins with a flight or transfer to Kigoma town, followed by a scenic boat ride across the crystal-clear waters of Lake Tanganyika to the park. The boat transfer itself is an experience, offering beautiful views of the forested slopes rising directly from the lake’s shoreline. Upon arrival, you will be welcomed by park rangers and your professional guide who will brief you on chimpanzee trekking rules and safety procedures.
The highlight of this safari is chimpanzee tracking. Guided by experienced park rangers, you will hike through tropical forest trails in search of habituated chimpanzee families. The trek can vary in duration and difficulty depending on the movement of the chimpanzees, as they roam freely within the forest. Once located, you will spend a memorable hour observing them in their natural habitat — watching them groom, play, feed, and interact socially. The close proximity and human-like behaviors of these primates create a powerful and emotional wildlife encounter unlike traditional game drives.
Beyond chimpanzees, Gombe is home to other primates such as red colobus monkeys, blue monkeys, vervet monkeys, and olive baboons. Birdlife is also abundant, making the park ideal for bird enthusiasts. Forest walks offer opportunities to learn about medicinal plants, unique tree species, and the delicate ecosystem that supports this biodiverse environment.

In addition to trekking, your safari includes time to relax along the sandy shores of Lake Tanganyika. The lake, one of the deepest and oldest freshwater lakes in the world, provides opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, or simply enjoying the tranquil scenery. The combination of forested mountains and calm blue waters creates a peaceful atmosphere that contrasts beautifully with the adventurous trekking activities.
Accommodation during this safari is typically in comfortable tented lodges or eco-lodges located within or near the park. These lodges offer stunning lake views, fresh meals, and a quiet environment that enhances the wilderness experience. Evenings are spent enjoying sunset views over the lake, listening to forest sounds, and reflecting on the day’s encounters.

This five-day experience is ideal for travelers seeking something different from the classic Big Five safari. It is perfect for nature lovers, photographers, researchers, and anyone interested in primate behavior and conservation history. The remoteness of Gombe ensures fewer crowds, providing a more personal and immersive safari adventure.
A 5 Days Safari to Gombe National Park is not just a trip — it is a journey into the world of chimpanzees, conservation legacy, and untouched natural beauty in western Tanzania.

About this tour

	Tour type	Custom, tailor-made, private
	Main focus	Game drives
	Activity level	Strenuous activity
	Best months	All months
	Countries	Tanzania
	Parks	Gombe Stream
	Accesibility	This tour is modifiable for those with limited mobility.

Fine details

Safari highlights

• Beaches
• Walking safari—with armed guard
• Hiking | trekking

What’s included?

• Accommodation
• Meals
• Park fees