Gombe Stream is one of Tanzania's smallest national parks, a strip of steep forested valleys on the shore of Lake Tanganyika about 16 kilometres north of Kigoma. It is famous as the place where Jane Goodall began her chimpanzee research in 1960, work that grew into the longest-running field study of any wild species. There are no roads; you arrive by boat and walk from the beach. Gombe suits travellers who want an intimate primate experience and do not mind steep, sweaty trails.

What you will see

Two chimpanzee communities, Kasekela and Mitumba, live in the park, and treks set out to find one of them. Sightings are likely but never guaranteed. The forest also holds olive baboons, red colobus, and red-tailed and blue monkeys. Beyond the chimps, a trail leads up the valley to Kakombe waterfall, and a longer hike climbs to Jane's Peak for views over the lake. Back at the beach, you can snorkel or kayak in the clear water.

The chimpanzee trek

Distance: you keep at least 10 metres from the chimps and wear a mask to protect them
Time: once you find them, you have one hour with the chimps
Health: you cannot trek if you are unwell, and groups are kept small
Age and fitness: a minimum age applies, so ask us if you are travelling with children; trails are steep

Sturdy shoes, long trousers and a light rain layer all make the walk easier.

When to go

Late June to October and January to early March are the most comfortable periods. In the rains, the trails become slippery and walking is harder work. The chimps are here all year, so the main difference is comfort on the paths. Our Tanzania weather guide explains the seasons in the west.

Getting there

Air Tanzania flies from Dar es Salaam to Kigoma. From Kigoma a speedboat takes about one to one and a half hours north along the lakeshore to the park, with fishing villages and steep hillsides drifting past on the way.

How it fits your trip

Gombe works well as part of a western circuit, combined with time on Lake Tanganyika and a visit to the Livingstone memorial at Ujiji. Some travellers also continue south to Mahale. It is a good contrast after a Kilimanjaro climb and a northern safari: forest instead of open plains, and a small, quiet group on foot. Plan at least two nights at the park so you have a second chance to trek if the first day is quiet.

Where to stay

Accommodation inside the park is limited and simple, close to the lake. Many visitors also spend a night in Kigoma on either side of the trip. Send us your dates and we will plan the boat and flights around your trek.