Gombe National Park, located on the western border of Tanzania along Lake Tanganyika, is the smallest of Tanzania’s national parks but holds immense significance as the site where Jane Goodall began her groundbreaking research on chimpanzees in 1960. The park is characterized by steep valleys, forest-covered slopes, and sandy beaches along the lake.
Morning/Afternoon: Arrive at Kigoma Airport (TKQ) or by other means of transport. Kigoma is a bustling port town on the shores of Lake Tanganyika.
Afternoon: Transfer to the Gombe National Park headquarters via a scenic boat ride across Lake Tanganyika. This journey offers stunning views of the lake and the surrounding hills. The boat ride typically takes 2-3 hours.
Late Afternoon: Check in to your accommodation within or near Gombe National Park (options range from basic bandas to more comfortable tented camps).
Evening: Orientation briefing by park officials or your guide regarding chimpanzee trekking rules, safety guidelines, and what to expect during your treks. Enjoy dinner and the tranquil atmosphere of the park.
Early Morning: After breakfast, embark on your first chimpanzee trekking excursion. You’ll be accompanied by experienced park rangers and guides who are familiar with the chimpanzee communities.
Morning/Afternoon: Trek through the forest, following trails and listening for signs of chimpanzee activity (calls, nests, droppings). The trek can vary in length and difficulty depending on the location of the chimps. Once a group is located, you’ll have a precious hour to observe them. Maintain a respectful distance and follow your guide’s instructions.
Late Afternoon: Return to your accommodation, sharing your incredible chimpanzee encounter experiences.
Evening: Relax, enjoy dinner, and perhaps listen to the sounds of the African nigh.
Morning: Depending on your preference, you can opt for another chimpanzee trek to potentially observe a different community or witness different behaviors.
Afternoon: Explore other aspects of Gombe National Park. Options include:
Hiking to Kakombe Waterfall: Enjoy a refreshing dip in the natural pool at the base of the waterfall.
Bird Watching: Gombe is home to a variety of colorful bird species.
Swimming or Relaxing by Lake Tanganyika: Enjoy the clear waters of the second-deepest lake in the world.
Learning about Jane Goodall’s Research: Visit the research center (if accessible) to learn more about the ongoing studies.
Evening: Enjoy dinner and reflect on your experiences in Gombe.
Early Morning: After breakfast, set out for another dedicated chimpanzee trekking experience. This provides another opportunity to spend time with these fascinating primates and potentially observe different social dynamics or behaviors.
Morning/Afternoon: Follow your guides into the forest, tracking the chimpanzee families. Enjoy another hour of observation once they are located.
Late Afternoon: Return to your accommodation, feeling enriched by your close encounters with our closest relatives.
Evening: Farewell dinner and sharing of highlights from your Gombe adventure.
Morning: After breakfast, enjoy a final morning in Gombe. You might have time for a short nature walk or simply relax by the lake.
Late Morning: Take a boat transfer back to Kigoma town across Lake Tanganyika.
Afternoon: Depending on your onward travel arrangements, you can be transferred to Kigoma Airport for your departure or continue your journey from Kigoma.
