Gombe National Park

Located along the eastern shores of Lake Tanganyika, Gombe National Park may be Tanzania’s smallest national park, but it holds an outsized reputation for its rich biodiversity and scientific significance. This is the park where Dr. Jane Goodall conducted her groundbreaking research on chimpanzees, and today, it offers visitors an immersive, off-the-beaten-path experience in a remote wilderness.

Located along the eastern shores of Lake Tanganyika, Gombe National Park may be Tanzania’s smallest national park, but it holds an outsized reputation for its rich biodiversity and scientific significance. This is the park where Dr. Jane Goodall conducted her groundbreaking research on chimpanzees, and today, it offers visitors an immersive, off-the-beaten-path experience in a remote wilderness.

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Why Visit Gombe National Park?

Gombe National Park offers something different from the large plains and game drives of more famous parks like Serengeti or Ngorongoro. Here’s why Gombe is so special:

Chimpanzee Trekking

Gombe is renowned for its wild chimpanzees, which have been studied since Jane Goodall arrived in 1960. Today, trekking to see these intelligent primates in their natural habitat is the park’s star attraction. You’ll trek through dense forests, guided by experts who help locate and observe the chimpanzees as they forage, play, groom, and interact socially. Seeing the Kasekela chimpanzee community up close is a highlight of any safari.

Gombe is renowned for its wild chimpanzees, which have been studied since Jane Goodall arrived in 1960. Today, trekking to see these intelligent primates in their natural habitat is the park’s star attraction. You’ll trek through dense forests, guided by experts who help locate and observe the chimpanzees as they forage, play, groom, and interact socially. Seeing the Kasekela chimpanzee community up close is a highlight of any safari.

Chimpanzee Trekking

Gombe is renowned for its wild chimpanzees, which have been studied since Jane Goodall arrived in 1960. Today, trekking to see these intelligent primates in their natural habitat is the park’s star attraction. You’ll trek through dense forests, guided by experts who help locate and observe the chimpanzees as they forage, play, groom, and interact socially. Seeing the Kasekela chimpanzee community up close is a highlight of any safari.

Gombe is renowned for its wild chimpanzees, which have been studied since Jane Goodall arrived in 1960. Today, trekking to see these intelligent primates in their natural habitat is the park’s star attraction. You’ll trek through dense forests, guided by experts who help locate and observe the chimpanzees as they forage, play, groom, and interact socially. Seeing the Kasekela chimpanzee community up close is a highlight of any safari.

Chimpanzee Trekking

Gombe is renowned for its wild chimpanzees, which have been studied since Jane Goodall arrived in 1960. Today, trekking to see these intelligent primates in their natural habitat is the park’s star attraction. You’ll trek through dense forests, guided by experts who help locate and observe the chimpanzees as they forage, play, groom, and interact socially. Seeing the Kasekela chimpanzee community up close is a highlight of any safari.

Gombe is renowned for its wild chimpanzees, which have been studied since Jane Goodall arrived in 1960. Today, trekking to see these intelligent primates in their natural habitat is the park’s star attraction. You’ll trek through dense forests, guided by experts who help locate and observe the chimpanzees as they forage, play, groom, and interact socially. Seeing the Kasekela chimpanzee community up close is a highlight of any safari.

Secluded Wilderness

Gombe’s remote location means fewer tourists, no roads, and exploration entirely on foot or by boat. It offers a peaceful, intimate encounter with nature that’s hard to find in busier parks. The park is located in the western Kigoma Region, with stunning views of Lake Tanganyika and the surrounding mountains.

Gombe’s remote location means fewer tourists, no roads, and exploration entirely on foot or by boat. It offers a peaceful, intimate encounter with nature that’s hard to find in busier parks. The park is located in the western Kigoma Region, with stunning views of Lake Tanganyika and the surrounding mountains.

Secluded Wilderness

Gombe’s remote location means fewer tourists, no roads, and exploration entirely on foot or by boat. It offers a peaceful, intimate encounter with nature that’s hard to find in busier parks. The park is located in the western Kigoma Region, with stunning views of Lake Tanganyika and the surrounding mountains.

Gombe’s remote location means fewer tourists, no roads, and exploration entirely on foot or by boat. It offers a peaceful, intimate encounter with nature that’s hard to find in busier parks. The park is located in the western Kigoma Region, with stunning views of Lake Tanganyika and the surrounding mountains.

Secluded Wilderness

Gombe’s remote location means fewer tourists, no roads, and exploration entirely on foot or by boat. It offers a peaceful, intimate encounter with nature that’s hard to find in busier parks. The park is located in the western Kigoma Region, with stunning views of Lake Tanganyika and the surrounding mountains.

Gombe’s remote location means fewer tourists, no roads, and exploration entirely on foot or by boat. It offers a peaceful, intimate encounter with nature that’s hard to find in busier parks. The park is located in the western Kigoma Region, with stunning views of Lake Tanganyika and the surrounding mountains.

Conservation and Research

As the site of the Gombe Stream Research Centre, the park is a hub of scientific research and conservation efforts. Visitors who care deeply about conservation can explore the legacy of Jane Goodall’s work, and see how ongoing research continues to protect chimpanzees and their environment.

As the site of the Gombe Stream Research Centre, the park is a hub of scientific research and conservation efforts. Visitors who care deeply about conservation can explore the legacy of Jane Goodall’s work, and see how ongoing research continues to protect chimpanzees and their environment.

Conservation and Research

As the site of the Gombe Stream Research Centre, the park is a hub of scientific research and conservation efforts. Visitors who care deeply about conservation can explore the legacy of Jane Goodall’s work, and see how ongoing research continues to protect chimpanzees and their environment.

As the site of the Gombe Stream Research Centre, the park is a hub of scientific research and conservation efforts. Visitors who care deeply about conservation can explore the legacy of Jane Goodall’s work, and see how ongoing research continues to protect chimpanzees and their environment.

Conservation and Research

As the site of the Gombe Stream Research Centre, the park is a hub of scientific research and conservation efforts. Visitors who care deeply about conservation can explore the legacy of Jane Goodall’s work, and see how ongoing research continues to protect chimpanzees and their environment.

As the site of the Gombe Stream Research Centre, the park is a hub of scientific research and conservation efforts. Visitors who care deeply about conservation can explore the legacy of Jane Goodall’s work, and see how ongoing research continues to protect chimpanzees and their environment.

Diverse Wildlife and Birdwatching

Boasting over 500 bird species, While chimpanzees are the main attraction, Gombe is also home to several other primates, including olive baboons, red-tailed monkeys, and the rare red colobus monkeys. Over 200 bird species can be found here, including the striking African fish eagle, great blue turaco, and Livingstone’s turaco . Ngorongoro is a top destination for birdwatchers, offering sightings of flamingos, raptors, and rare migratory species.

Boasting over 500 bird species, While chimpanzees are the main attraction, Gombe is also home to several other primates, including olive baboons, red-tailed monkeys, and the rare red colobus monkeys. Over 200 bird species can be found here, including the striking African fish eagle, great blue turaco, and Livingstone’s turaco . Ngorongoro is a top destination for birdwatchers, offering sightings of flamingos, raptors, and rare migratory species.

Diverse Wildlife and Birdwatching

Boasting over 500 bird species, While chimpanzees are the main attraction, Gombe is also home to several other primates, including olive baboons, red-tailed monkeys, and the rare red colobus monkeys. Over 200 bird species can be found here, including the striking African fish eagle, great blue turaco, and Livingstone’s turaco . Ngorongoro is a top destination for birdwatchers, offering sightings of flamingos, raptors, and rare migratory species.

Boasting over 500 bird species, While chimpanzees are the main attraction, Gombe is also home to several other primates, including olive baboons, red-tailed monkeys, and the rare red colobus monkeys. Over 200 bird species can be found here, including the striking African fish eagle, great blue turaco, and Livingstone’s turaco . Ngorongoro is a top destination for birdwatchers, offering sightings of flamingos, raptors, and rare migratory species.

Diverse Wildlife and Birdwatching

Boasting over 500 bird species, While chimpanzees are the main attraction, Gombe is also home to several other primates, including olive baboons, red-tailed monkeys, and the rare red colobus monkeys. Over 200 bird species can be found here, including the striking African fish eagle, great blue turaco, and Livingstone’s turaco . Ngorongoro is a top destination for birdwatchers, offering sightings of flamingos, raptors, and rare migratory species.

Boasting over 500 bird species, While chimpanzees are the main attraction, Gombe is also home to several other primates, including olive baboons, red-tailed monkeys, and the rare red colobus monkeys. Over 200 bird species can be found here, including the striking African fish eagle, great blue turaco, and Livingstone’s turaco . Ngorongoro is a top destination for birdwatchers, offering sightings of flamingos, raptors, and rare migratory species.

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How difficult is Chimpanzee trekking?

Chimpanzee trekking in Gombe can be moderately challenging. The trails are steep, and the terrain can be rugged, especially during the wet season when the paths may become slippery. Visitors should be in decent physical condition and prepared for hikes that can last anywhere from one to four hours, depending on where the chimps are located.

How Many Days Do You Need in Gombe National Park?

A minimum of 3 days is recommended for a fulfilling visit to Gombe National Park.

Chimpanzee Trekking

Since chimpanzee sightings can vary depending on where the chimps are foraging, spending at least two full days trekking will give you the best chances of multiple sightings.

Chimpanzee Trekking

Since chimpanzee sightings can vary depending on where the chimps are foraging, spending at least two full days trekking will give you the best chances of multiple sightings.

Chimpanzee Trekking

Since chimpanzee sightings can vary depending on where the chimps are foraging, spending at least two full days trekking will give you the best chances of multiple sightings.

Other Activities

Gombe offers nature walks, birdwatching, and boat rides on Lake Tanganyika, all of which can be enjoyed at a relaxed pace over three days.

Other Activities

Gombe offers nature walks, birdwatching, and boat rides on Lake Tanganyika, all of which can be enjoyed at a relaxed pace over three days.

Other Activities

Gombe offers nature walks, birdwatching, and boat rides on Lake Tanganyika, all of which can be enjoyed at a relaxed pace over three days.

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Other Activities in Gombe National Park

Beyond chimpanzee trekking, Gombe offers a range of activities that complement your visit:

Nature Walks

Nature Walks

Trekking through the forest isn’t just about chimpanzees. You’ll encounter other primates like baboons and red-tailed monkeys, and you can visit the scenic Kakombe Waterfall to cool off during your hike

Birdwatching

Birdwatching

Gombe’s varied habitats make it a haven for birdwatchers, with over 200 species to spot. Bring binoculars to catch glimpses of the great blue turaco, palm-nut vulture, and colorful malachite kingfisher.

Boat Safaris and Lake Activities

Boat Safaris and Lake Activities

Take a boat trip along the shores of Lake Tanganyika to enjoy the lake’s crystal-clear waters, spot aquatic wildlife, or even go for a swim. The lake offers a tranquil escape after a day of trekking.

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Feasibility of Combining Gombe with Other Parks

Gombe National Park is located in the far western part of Tanzania, near Lake Tanganyika and the town of Kigoma. Unlike other popular safari destinations such as Serengeti or Ngorongoro, Gombe is only accessible by boat, which adds complexity to travel arrangements. Visitors first need to fly or drive to Kigoma, then take a boat to reach the park. Kigoma Airport is small, with flights typically operated by smaller, regional airlines like Precision Air or Auric Air. Once in Kigoma, private or public boats can transport you to Gombe.

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Feasibility of Combining Gombe with Other Parks

Best time to visit Ta

Best time to visit Ta

Gombe National Park is located in the far western part of Tanzania, near Lake Tanganyika and the town of Kigoma. Unlike other popular safari destinations such as Serengeti or Ngorongoro, Gombe is only accessible by boat, which adds complexity to travel arrangements. Visitors first need to fly or drive to Kigoma, then take a boat to reach the park. Kigoma Airport is small, with flights typically operated by smaller, regional airlines like Precision Air or Auric Air. Once in Kigoma, private or public boats can transport you to Gombe.

  • Mahale Mountains National Park

    🌡️

    Why Combine

    Mahale, also located along the shores of Lake Tanganyika, is often visited in combination with Gombe because both parks offer chimpanzee trekking experiences. Mahale is larger, with more expansive chimpanzee habitats, but Gombe is where Jane Goodall’s iconic research was conducted, making it a special destination for conservation enthusiasts.

    ☀️

    Travel

    Travelers can take a boat or short charter flight from Kigoma to Mahale, making the transition between the two parks relatively straightforward. Both parks offer incredibly scenic experiences and are less crowded than other parks.

  • Serengeti National Park

    🌡️

    Why Combine

    For visitors who want to experience the Great Migration or classic “Big Five” safaris, Serengeti is the ideal contrast to Gombe’s primate-focused trekking. Serengeti is vast, with open savannahs, making it perfect for game drives, while Gombe’s draw lies in the intimate, forested trekking experiences.

    ☀️

    Travel

    A direct flight from Serengeti’s Grumeti or Seronera airstrips to Kigoma can be arranged with regional airlines, though this may involve a connecting flight in Arusha. This combination offers the chance to see both iconic African wildlife and more niche species like chimpanzees.

  • Ngorongoro Crater

    🌡️

    Why Combine

    The Ngorongoro Crater is one of the world’s greatest natural wonders and offers spectacular sightings of rhinos, elephants, and large predators. Pairing it with Gombe gives travelers the opportunity to experience both the volcanic caldera and the forests of western Tanzania.

    ☀️

    Travel

    Similar to Serengeti, traveling from Ngorongoro to Gombe requires a flight from Arusha to Kigoma, followed by a boat ride. It’s an exciting mix of landscapes, from the crater’s lush plains to Gombe’s dense forests.

  • Ruaha National Park

    🌡️

    Why Combine

    For those looking for an off-the-beaten-path safari, Ruaha National Park offers fewer tourists and larger elephant herds. Combining Ruaha with Gombe provides a remote and wild Tanzanian experience, ideal for seasoned safari-goers who want to avoid the crowds.

    ☀️

    Travel

    A flight from Ruaha (Msembe Airstrip) to Kigoma can be arranged, though it will likely require a connection in Dar es Salaam or Arusha

  • Mahale Mountains National Park

    🌡️

    Why Combine

    Mahale, also located along the shores of Lake Tanganyika, is often visited in combination with Gombe because both parks offer chimpanzee trekking experiences. Mahale is larger, with more expansive chimpanzee habitats, but Gombe is where Jane Goodall’s iconic research was conducted, making it a special destination for conservation enthusiasts.

    ☀️

    Travel

    Travelers can take a boat or short charter flight from Kigoma to Mahale, making the transition between the two parks relatively straightforward. Both parks offer incredibly scenic experiences and are less crowded than other parks.

  • Serengeti National Park

    🌡️

    Why Combine

    For visitors who want to experience the Great Migration or classic “Big Five” safaris, Serengeti is the ideal contrast to Gombe’s primate-focused trekking. Serengeti is vast, with open savannahs, making it perfect for game drives, while Gombe’s draw lies in the intimate, forested trekking experiences.

    ☀️

    Travel

    A direct flight from Serengeti’s Grumeti or Seronera airstrips to Kigoma can be arranged with regional airlines, though this may involve a connecting flight in Arusha. This combination offers the chance to see both iconic African wildlife and more niche species like chimpanzees.

  • Ngorongoro Crater

    🌡️

    Why Combine

    The Ngorongoro Crater is one of the world’s greatest natural wonders and offers spectacular sightings of rhinos, elephants, and large predators. Pairing it with Gombe gives travelers the opportunity to experience both the volcanic caldera and the forests of western Tanzania.

    ☀️

    Travel

    Similar to Serengeti, traveling from Ngorongoro to Gombe requires a flight from Arusha to Kigoma, followed by a boat ride. It’s an exciting mix of landscapes, from the crater’s lush plains to Gombe’s dense forests.

  • Ruaha National Park

    🌡️

    Why Combine

    For those looking for an off-the-beaten-path safari, Ruaha National Park offers fewer tourists and larger elephant herds. Combining Ruaha with Gombe provides a remote and wild Tanzanian experience, ideal for seasoned safari-goers who want to avoid the crowds.

    ☀️

    Travel

    A flight from Ruaha (Msembe Airstrip) to Kigoma can be arranged, though it will likely require a connection in Dar es Salaam or Arusha

  • Mahale Mountains National Park

    🌡️

    Why Combine

    Mahale, also located along the shores of Lake Tanganyika, is often visited in combination with Gombe because both parks offer chimpanzee trekking experiences. Mahale is larger, with more expansive chimpanzee habitats, but Gombe is where Jane Goodall’s iconic research was conducted, making it a special destination for conservation enthusiasts.

    ☀️

    Travel

    Travelers can take a boat or short charter flight from Kigoma to Mahale, making the transition between the two parks relatively straightforward. Both parks offer incredibly scenic experiences and are less crowded than other parks.

  • Serengeti National Park

    🌡️

    Why Combine

    For visitors who want to experience the Great Migration or classic “Big Five” safaris, Serengeti is the ideal contrast to Gombe’s primate-focused trekking. Serengeti is vast, with open savannahs, making it perfect for game drives, while Gombe’s draw lies in the intimate, forested trekking experiences.

    ☀️

    Travel

    A direct flight from Serengeti’s Grumeti or Seronera airstrips to Kigoma can be arranged with regional airlines, though this may involve a connecting flight in Arusha. This combination offers the chance to see both iconic African wildlife and more niche species like chimpanzees.

  • Ngorongoro Crater

    🌡️

    Why Combine

    The Ngorongoro Crater is one of the world’s greatest natural wonders and offers spectacular sightings of rhinos, elephants, and large predators. Pairing it with Gombe gives travelers the opportunity to experience both the volcanic caldera and the forests of western Tanzania.

    ☀️

    Travel

    Similar to Serengeti, traveling from Ngorongoro to Gombe requires a flight from Arusha to Kigoma, followed by a boat ride. It’s an exciting mix of landscapes, from the crater’s lush plains to Gombe’s dense forests.

  • Ruaha National Park

    🌡️

    Why Combine

    For those looking for an off-the-beaten-path safari, Ruaha National Park offers fewer tourists and larger elephant herds. Combining Ruaha with Gombe provides a remote and wild Tanzanian experience, ideal for seasoned safari-goers who want to avoid the crowds.

    ☀️

    Travel

    A flight from Ruaha (Msembe Airstrip) to Kigoma can be arranged, though it will likely require a connection in Dar es Salaam or Arusha

Travel Tips for Combining Gombe with Other Parks

Book Flights in Advance

Due to limited flights to and from Kigoma, it’s essential to book your flights in advance, especially if you plan to visit during peak travel months.

Plan for Extra Travel Time

Since Gombe is remote, combining it with other parks will add extra travel days to your itinerary. Ensure you plan for these transit days so that you can still enjoy your safari experiences fully.

Consider Private Charters

For small groups or those willing to splurge, private charter flights between parks can cut down on travel time significantly and make the logistics easier. This is especially useful when combining Gombe with more distant parks like Serengeti or Ruaha.

Mix Your Safari Experiences

Combining Gombe with other parks allows you to mix activities like game drives, chimpanzee trekking, walking safaris, and boat safaris. Each park offers something different, so consider your interests (big game vs. primates vs. remote wilderness) when planning your itinerary.

Health & Safety Precautions

When visiting Gombe, it’s important to take the following health precautions:

Vaccinations

Be sure to get routine vaccines as well as specific vaccinations like yellow fever, hepatitis A, and typhoid. A tetanus shot and rabies vaccine may also be advisable for those engaging in chimpanzee trekking.

Malaria & Mosquitoes

Gombe is in a malaria zone, so bring antimalarial medication and pack mosquito repellent with DEET. Long sleeves and mosquito nets are also recommended to avoid bites.

Fitness Level

Chimpanzee trekking can be physically demanding, with steep, forested trails. Be prepared for a challenging but rewarding experience, and bring plenty of water

Month-by-Month Breakdown of Weather

Best time to visit Ta

Best time to visit Ta

  • January - March: Wet Season Begins

    🌡️

    Temperatures

    26-30°C (79-86°F) during the day, 18-22°C (64-72°F) at night.

    🦟

    Mosquitoes

    High activity. This period marks the onset of the rainy season, with frequent showers and high humidity. Trails can become slippery, and trekking can be challenging. However, the lush greenery makes this an excellent time for birdwatching. Mosquitoes are prevalent, so travelers should take anti-malarial precautions.

  • April - May: Peak of the Wet Season

    🌡️

    Temperatures

    26-29°C (79-84°F) during the day, 18-21°C (64-70°F) at night.

    🦟

    Mosquitoes

    Very high activity. April and May are the wettest months, with heavy rains making trekking difficult. The forest is lush, but chimps may be harder to track. This period is perfect for bird enthusiasts, though the risk of malaria remains high.

  • June - October: Dry Season

    🌡️

    Temperatures

    24-28°C (75-82°F) during the day, 12-16°C (54-61°F) at night.

    🦟

    Mosquitoes

    Low activity. This is the ideal time for chimpanzee trekking. The weather is cooler, and trails are dry, making it easier to explore the forest. With minimal mosquito activity, the dry season is also the most comfortable time to visit.

  • November - December: Start of the Wet Season

    🌡️

    Temperatures

    26-30°C (79-86°F) during the day, 18-22°C (64-72°F) at night.

    🦟

    Mosquitoes

    Moderate to high activity. As the rains return in November, the forest becomes lush again, and chimpanzee trekking is still feasible, though trails may become more slippery. Mosquito activity rises, so take appropriate precautions.

  • January - March: Wet Season Begins

    🌡️

    Temperatures

    26-30°C (79-86°F) during the day, 18-22°C (64-72°F) at night.

    🦟

    Mosquitoes

    High activity. This period marks the onset of the rainy season, with frequent showers and high humidity. Trails can become slippery, and trekking can be challenging. However, the lush greenery makes this an excellent time for birdwatching. Mosquitoes are prevalent, so travelers should take anti-malarial precautions.

  • April - May: Peak of the Wet Season

    🌡️

    Temperatures

    26-29°C (79-84°F) during the day, 18-21°C (64-70°F) at night.

    🦟

    Mosquitoes

    Very high activity. April and May are the wettest months, with heavy rains making trekking difficult. The forest is lush, but chimps may be harder to track. This period is perfect for bird enthusiasts, though the risk of malaria remains high.

  • June - October: Dry Season

    🌡️

    Temperatures

    24-28°C (75-82°F) during the day, 12-16°C (54-61°F) at night.

    🦟

    Mosquitoes

    Low activity. This is the ideal time for chimpanzee trekking. The weather is cooler, and trails are dry, making it easier to explore the forest. With minimal mosquito activity, the dry season is also the most comfortable time to visit.

  • November - December: Start of the Wet Season

    🌡️

    Temperatures

    26-30°C (79-86°F) during the day, 18-22°C (64-72°F) at night.

    🦟

    Mosquitoes

    Moderate to high activity. As the rains return in November, the forest becomes lush again, and chimpanzee trekking is still feasible, though trails may become more slippery. Mosquito activity rises, so take appropriate precautions.

  • January - March: Wet Season Begins

    🌡️

    Temperatures

    26-30°C (79-86°F) during the day, 18-22°C (64-72°F) at night.

    🦟

    Mosquitoes

    High activity. This period marks the onset of the rainy season, with frequent showers and high humidity. Trails can become slippery, and trekking can be challenging. However, the lush greenery makes this an excellent time for birdwatching. Mosquitoes are prevalent, so travelers should take anti-malarial precautions.

  • April - May: Peak of the Wet Season

    🌡️

    Temperatures

    26-29°C (79-84°F) during the day, 18-21°C (64-70°F) at night.

    🦟

    Mosquitoes

    Very high activity. April and May are the wettest months, with heavy rains making trekking difficult. The forest is lush, but chimps may be harder to track. This period is perfect for bird enthusiasts, though the risk of malaria remains high.

  • June - October: Dry Season

    🌡️

    Temperatures

    24-28°C (75-82°F) during the day, 12-16°C (54-61°F) at night.

    🦟

    Mosquitoes

    Low activity. This is the ideal time for chimpanzee trekking. The weather is cooler, and trails are dry, making it easier to explore the forest. With minimal mosquito activity, the dry season is also the most comfortable time to visit.

  • November - December: Start of the Wet Season

    🌡️

    Temperatures

    26-30°C (79-86°F) during the day, 18-22°C (64-72°F) at night.

    🦟

    Mosquitoes

    Moderate to high activity. As the rains return in November, the forest becomes lush again, and chimpanzee trekking is still feasible, though trails may become more slippery. Mosquito activity rises, so take appropriate precautions.

Entry Fees and Regulations

Here are the fees associated with visiting Gombe:


  • Park Entry (Adult): $100 per day.

  • Park Entry (Child): $20 per day.

  • Chimp Trekking Guide Fee: $20 per group.

  • Park Hours: 8 AM to 6 PM daily.


Be sure to carry Tanzanian Shillings (TZS) as some places may not accept credit cards.

Ngorongoro is easily accessible from major Tanzanian tourist hubs like Arusha, Serengeti, and Tarangire.

  • From Arusha: 190 km (3-4 hours’ drive).

  • From Karatu: 20 km (45 minutes to 1 hour drive).

  • From Central Serengeti: 145 km (3-4 hours’ drive).

  • From Tarangire: 120 km (2-3 hours’ drive).

  • From Lake Manyara: 80 km (1.5 hours’ drive).



Ngorongoro is easily accessible from major Tanzanian tourist hubs like Arusha, Serengeti, and Tarangire.

  • From Arusha: 190 km (3-4 hours’ drive).

  • From Karatu: 20 km (45 minutes to 1 hour drive).

  • From Central Serengeti: 145 km (3-4 hours’ drive).

  • From Tarangire: 120 km (2-3 hours’ drive).

  • From Lake Manyara: 80 km (1.5 hours’ drive).



How to Get to Gombe National Park

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Where to Stay in Gombe National Park

Gombe offers a limited but charming selection of accommodation options:

  • Mbali Mbali Gombe Lodge: This luxury lodge offers spectacular lake views, all-inclusive packages, and easy access to trekking trails .

  • Kigoma Hilltop Hotel: Located just outside Gombe in Kigoma, this mid-range hotel offers modern amenities with beautiful views of Lake Tanganyika .

  • Public Campsites: For budget travelers, public campsites within the park provide a rustic yet immersive experience

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What to Pack for Your Visit 

Packing for Gombe requires careful consideration of the park’s remote location, tropical weather, and rugged terrain. Here’s a comprehensive list of what you’ll need for a comfortable and safe adventure in this unique wilderness.

  1. Clothing

  • Lightweight, Breathable Clothing: Wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants to protect yourself from the sun and insects. Choose moisture-wicking and quick-drying fabrics, as Gombe can be hot and humid, especially in the rainy season.

  • Hiking Boots: Trekking in Gombe involves navigating rugged, sometimes slippery terrain. Be sure to pack sturdy, waterproof hiking boots with good ankle support to keep your feet safe and dry.

  • Rain Gear: If you’re visiting during the wet season (November to May), bring a lightweight rain jacket or poncho to stay dry during sudden showers.

  • Wide-brimmed Hat: A hat with a wide brim will protect your face and neck from the harsh African sun, especially during the dry season.


  1. Insect Protection

  • Insect Repellent: Since Gombe is a malaria-prone area, it’s essential to carry insect repellent with DEET to protect against mosquito bites. Apply it generously, especially in the evenings.

  • Anti-malarial Medication: Consult with your healthcare provider before traveling, and ensure you have the appropriate malaria prevention medication.

  • Mosquito Net: Many lodges and campsites provide mosquito nets, but it’s a good idea to carry a portable mosquito net, especially if you’re staying in budget accommodations or camping.


  1. Trekking Gear

  • Daypack: A durable daypack is essential for carrying your water, snacks, camera, and other supplies during your treks. Choose one that’s comfortable and waterproof.

  • Reusable Water Bottle: Staying hydrated is key when hiking, especially in hot and humid conditions. Bring a reusable water bottle, preferably an insulated one to keep your water cool.

  • Hiking Poles: Trekking poles can be a great help when navigating steep or uneven trails, providing balance and support.


  1. Tech and Accessories

  • Binoculars: With over 200 species of birds in Gombe, a pair of binoculars will help you spot wildlife from afar, especially during birdwatching sessions or when the chimps are high in the trees.

  • Camera Equipment: Gombe is a photographer’s dream, especially for wildlife photography. Be sure to pack a camera with a zoom lens to capture close-up shots of chimpanzees and other wildlife.

  • Power Bank: As electricity may not be reliable in some parts of Tanzania, carrying a power bank will help keep your devices charged throughout your trek.


  1. Miscellaneous Essentials

  • Sunscreen: High-SPF sunscreen is a must to protect your skin from the strong tropical sun.

  • Snacks: Carry high-energy snacks like protein bars or trail mix for long treks. Since Gombe’s trails can be challenging, you’ll appreciate having some fuel to keep you going.

  • First Aid Kit: A small, portable first aid kit with essentials like bandages, antiseptic wipes, pain relief medication, and any personal medication is necessary, especially for remote locations like Gombe.


Additional Items to Consider

  • Malaria Prevention Medication: Speak with your healthcare provider before traveling to Gombe, and bring prescription antimalarial medication.

  • Guidebook: A small bird or wildlife guidebook can be useful for identifying species during your treks.

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    Gombe National Park