Gombe Stream Travel Guide

Gombe Stream National Park lies on the shore of Lake Tanganyika in western Tanzania. In 1960 Jane Goodall began her groundbreaking chimpanzee research here, work that changed how we understand our closest relatives.

Small but Special

At only 56 square kilometers, Gombe is one of Tanzania's smallest parks. Its steep, forested valleys are home to habituated chimpanzee groups, and a visit feels completely different from a savanna safari, with dense forest, steep climbs and a slower rhythm.

What Trekking Involves

Expect narrow, steep trails and humid air. It is more physical than a game drive, but watching chimpanzees go about their day is worth every step.

How to Get There

You reach Gombe by boat from Kigoma, which you can reach by domestic flight or train. The journey is part of the adventure, and the remoteness keeps visitor numbers low.

When to Go

July to October and December to February are the driest times for trekking.