Gombe Stream National Park, located along the western border of Tanzania, is accessible by boat from Kigoma town, just 16 km to the south. Though it spans only 52 square kilometers, Gombe Stream is one of Tanzania's most captivating national parks. Bordered by the Great Rift Valley escarpment in the east and Lake Tanganyika in the west, it offers dramatic landscapes and rich biodiversity.
Known for its chimpanzee population, made famous by Jane Goodall’s groundbreaking research, Gombe Stream offers an unparalleled opportunity to encounter these endangered primates in their natural habitat. Aside from chimpanzees, visitors can spot a variety of forest species, including baboons, blue monkeys, vervet monkeys, and red-tailed monkeys, as well as over 200 species of birds.
The park’s terrain ranges from evergreen forests to open woodlands and grasslands, and as a park without roads, all exploration is done on foot with a guide. This gives visitors a chance to fully immerse themselves in the park’s pristine wilderness, experiencing nature up close and personal.
Size: 52 sq km (20 sq miles).
Location: 16 km north of Kigoma, Western Tanzania.
By boat from Kigoma town. There are no roads within the park.
Guided chimpanzee trekking, bird watching, and hiking.
Dry season (July-October) is best for chimpanzee trekking.
Gombe Stream National Park’s highlight is its unique chimpanzee trekking experience, where visitors can observe these endangered primates in their natural environment. The park is also home to a variety of other primates and wildlife, offering an immersive and intimate encounter with nature.
Explore the park on foot with an experienced guide, following trails through the forest as you track the movements of the chimpanzees. Along the way, you may encounter other wildlife and marvel at the diversity of birds that inhabit the park. The lush greenery, set against the backdrop of Lake Tanganyika, provides a serene and awe-inspiring setting for your adventure.