Park Overview

Location

Gombe Stream National Park is situated in western Tanzania, on the shores of Lake Tanganyika. The park lies 16 kilometers north of Kigoma town, covering a narrow strip of mountainous terrain stretching from the lake shore up into the Rift Valley escarpment. At just 52 square kilometers, it’s Tanzania’s smallest national park.

Tourist Attractions

Primates

• Habituated chimpanzee communities
• Olive baboons
• Red-tailed monkeys
• Red colobus monkeys
• Vervet monkeys

Other Wildlife

• Over 200 bird species
• Forest mammals including:
  • Bushbuck
  • Bush pigs
  • Palm civets
  • Fish eagles
  • Giant kingfishers

Natural Features

1. Lake Tanganyika
   • Crystal clear waters
   • Sandy beaches
   • World’s longest freshwater lake
2. Forest Landscapes
   • Steep valleys
   • Streams and waterfalls
   • Dense forest canopy
   • Grassland ridges

Activities

1. Chimpanzee Tracking
   • Guided walks to observe chimps
   • Photography opportunities
   • Behavioral study sessions
2. Other Activities
   • Hiking trails
   • Swimming
   • Snorkeling
   • Sport fishing
   • Bird watching
   • Cultural visits to nearby villages

Unique Features & Fun Facts

Historical Significance

1. Jane Goodall’s Legacy
   • Site of the longest-running wild chimpanzee study in the world
   • Research began in 1960
   • Revolutionary findings about chimpanzee tool use and social behavior
2. Scientific Importance
   • Continuous chimp research for over 60 years
   • Major contributions to primatology
   • Several generations of chimps documented

What Makes It Special

1. Intimate Experience
   • Small park size allows close encounters
   • Limited visitor numbers
   • Personal guided experiences
2. Unique Environment
   • Meeting point of lake and forest ecosystems
   • Pristine lake shore
   • Diverse primate population

Differences from Other Parks

• Focus on primates rather than big game
• More intimate wildlife encounters
• Combination of forest and lake activities
• Strong research and conservation focus
• Walking-only park (no vehicles)

Best Time to Visit

Peak Season (July to October)

• Dry season
• Best chimp viewing
• Clear skies
• Comfortable hiking conditions

Green Season (November to June)

• More challenging hiking conditions
• Lush vegetation
• Fewer visitors
• Lower rates

Month-by-Month Highlights

• July-August: Peak chimpanzee viewing
• September-October: Ideal hiking weather
• November-December: Start of rains
• January-February: Beautiful green scenery
• March-June: Variable conditions

Best Accommodations

Luxury Options

1. Gombe Forest Lodge
   • Location: Lake shore
   • Features:
     • Luxury tented rooms
     • Private verandas
     • En-suite facilities
   • Price Range: $400-600 per person per night

Mid-Range Options

1. Gombe Bandas
   • Location: Near research center
   • Features:
     • Self-contained rooms
     • Basic but comfortable
     • Shared facilities
   • Price Range: $150-250 per person per night

Budget Options

1. Rest House
   • Location: Park headquarters
   • Features:
     • Simple accommodation
     • Shared facilities
     • Basic amenities
   • Price Range: $50-100 per person per night

Camping

• Designated camping areas
• Basic facilities
• Must bring own equipment
• Price Range: $20-30 per person per night

Frequently Asked Questions